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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

Cesarean Birth Preparation-2 hours. $75.

This class, taught by a registered nurse, is designed to support the needs of parents who are either preparing for a birth by cesarean section or who are interested in learning more about the experience of an unexpected C-section. Parents are encouraged to take this class in the last trimester of their pregnancy.

 

Topics covered include:

  • Pre- and Post-Delivery Preparation
  • Indications for a Cesarean Birth
  • Cesarean Birth Procedure: What to Expect
  • Anesthesia
  • Recovery
  • Relaxation Techniques
  • Coping with Postpartum and a Newborn after a Cesarean Delivery
  • Tour of Saint John’s specifically for C-Section Patients

 Package Rates

  • Childbirth Preparation, Baby Care Basics and Breastfeeding package = $320
  • Baby Care Basics and Breastfeeding package = $130

View Class Calendar

  • Pre-Registration

    Women should complete the Saint John’s pre-registration form two months before their due date.

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  • Tour & Orientation

    All expectant parents are encouraged to tour the McAlister Women's Health Center and learn about the programs in person.

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