OBSTETRICS/MATERNITY:
prenatal education program
In the life of any family, there is little to compare with the birth of a new baby. Because this is a joyous and exciting time filled with great change, Saint John’s Health Center believes that early preparation is important. That is why, the Health Center is pleased to offer a Prenatal Education Program to help meet the needs of expectant parents in our community.
Childbirth Preparation. Class I and II. 3 hours each. $220.
To help expectant parents understand and cope with the exciting yet challenging experiences of labor and childbirth, Saint John’s offers a two-part childbirth class. A registered nurse, certified in childbirth education, teaches both parts of the class.
Topics covered include:
- Healthy Nutrition
- Remedies for the Discomforts of Pregnancy
- Planning Ahead
- The Stages of Labor and Birth
- Effective Coping Strategies
- Relaxation and Breathing Techniques
- Positions in Labor
- Wisdom for Birth Partners
- Medical Options and Practices
- Pain Management Options and the Epidural
- The Caesarean Birth Experience
- Postpartum and the Realities of Parenting a Newborn
Baby Care Basics. 3 hours. $75.
This class, taught by a registered nurse, is designed to help new parents-to-be learn the basics of caring for a newborn. Practice time with baby dolls is included.
Topics covered include:
- Normal Newborn Characteristics
- Bathing
- Diapering
- Swaddling
- Cord Care
- Newborn Sleep Patterns
- Newborn Safety
- When to Call a Pediatrician
- Parent Survival Tips
Breastfeeding Basics. 3 hours. $75
One of the most important choices a new mother makes is how best to nourish her baby. Mothers, pediatricians and nurses all agree that breastfeeding is the best choice for your baby. Our three-hour class, taught by a certified lactation consultant, will help mothers-to-be learn the ins and outs of breastfeeding.
Topics covered include:
- Breastfeeding Techniques
- Proper Positioning and Latch Techniques
- Milk Production
- Understanding Baby’s Feeding Cues
- Engorgement Prevention
- Nutrition During Breastfeeding
- Pumping and Returning to Work
- Correct Storage of Milk
- When to Seek Assistance or Support
Package Rates
- Childbirth Preparation, Baby Care Basics and Breastfeeding package = $320
- Baby Care Basics and Breastfeeding package = $130
Check out the 2009 Class Calendar.