Class Outline

Class #1

• Introduction
• Overview of class content
• The pregnant body and how to prepare your body for childbirth
• Introduction to decision making and your choices
• Natural Childbirth video

Class #2

• The importance of nutrition in pregnancy and childbirth
• Simple ways to reduce the risks of nutrition related pregnancy disorders
• Pregnancy exercises and yoga stretches
• Natural childbirth video

Class #3

• Introduction to the first stage of labor
• Positions for a more comfortable labor
• Making informed decisions
• What is a doula?
• Water birth discussion and video

Class #4

• Advanced first stage labor techniques and the role of the labor partner
• Introduction to second stage
• Natural Childbirth and epidural video
• Handouts regarding labor

Class #5

• Options for pushing out your baby
• Relaxation, breathing and birth
• How to work with your body during childbirth
• Pain and childbirth
• Natural Childbirth video

Class #6

• The Birth Plan
• Being flexible and realistic about the birth experience
• Discussion about unexpected outcomes
• Natural childbirth and Cesarean section videos Birth Plan handouts

Class #7

• Couples Labor rehearsal
• Overview of labor and birth
• Introduction to the postpartum period
• Breastfeeding challenges and choices
• Birth of twins video
• Coach's checklist handout

Class #8

• Surprising newborn facts
• Handouts for the postpartum/ newborn period
• Becoming a father
• Empowerment through birth and mothering
• Send off ritual
• Potluck