In an 8-week Best of Natural Birth series, you'll learn:
• Your options for labor and birth—what choices do you really have?
• Stages of labor and normal variations—understand what will be going on in your body.
• Comfort measures and coping techniques—what will get you through the intense sensations of labor?
Relaxation, visualization, counterpressure, massage, movement… What really works, and exactly how are they used?
• How to support a laboring woman—if dads and partners feel helpless, they'll understandably advocate for the drugs. What's the difference between a "coach" and a birth partner? This course goes in-depth on how to help her through the journey in an effective, realistic, loving way.
• Informed choice—if an intervention is suggested, how do you get the information you need to make a decision?
• Working through hopes and fears—explore your feelings about birth in a supportive, open environment.
• What resources are available in the community—Kalamazoo has an amazing range of professionals and resources to support you in pregnancy, birth and parenting! You can tap into Jessica's expertise to find the connections you need.
• Tips from the experts—you'll hear birth stories from three couples who have birthed naturally, along with visits from a midwife and a massage therapist.
• Creating a back-up plan—how can you create as natural an experience as possible, even if things unfold differently than you'd hoped?
All of this takes place in a relaxed, professional setting where families feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their experiences. Each mom is paired with a "natural birth mentor" who has given birth within the past 18 months—a former student who you'll be in touch with by e-mail or by phone, who can help answer your questions about what natural birth is "really like." You'll also watch a video each week to get familiar with the sights and sounds of birth, and to start wrapping your brain around the amazing range of coping techniques and natural birth experiences.
After your baby is born, the support doesn't end. Jessica makes herself available for breastfeeding and parenting help via e-mail, phone or even in-person consultations. Many classes continue their connection after the eight-week series ends, with reunions and playgroups. Jessica will update you by e-mail when your classmates' babies are born!
Kind words:
We had such a fantastic birth experience. Believe it or not, the birth plan was followed to a tee. Everything went so perfectly, I still can't believe it. Natural childbirth rocks! Your class was the best preparation EVER. Thanks to you, Chad and I were very prepared to bring Henrik into the world.
- Kristin, RN and mom to Henrick, born at Bronson Hospital
