"Birth is the sudden opening of a window, through which you look upon a stupendous prospect. For what has happened? A Miracle. You have exchanged nothing for the possibility of everything."
William MacNeile Dixon
What is Childbirth Education?
"Antenatal classes tend to attract people who want to understand and play an active part in the experience of birth."
Williams & Booth (1985)
The aim of this course is to give you and your partner the opportunity to explore a wide range of issues surrounding pregnancy, labour and early parenthood in a relaxed and informal atmosphere. The course is specially designed to offer a mixture of information - sharing, discussion and practical skills. What makes this course different to the hospital run information evenings?
I encourage couples to attend the hospital run courses as a great way to familiarize themselves with the hospital, staff and environment. There are, however, distinct differences in the courses.
I offer a 6 week course that includes:
Small groups that create a safe and supportive environment where hopes and fears can be explored.
Physical skills which concentrate on self-help strategies for labour. eg: breathing, massage, positions, mobility, pelvic floor preparation etc.
In depth discussions on the pros and cons of medical interventions such as Induction, Forceps/Ventouse, Episiotomies and Caesareans etc. We also discuss the pros and cons of pain relief such as Pethidine and Epidural.
Plenty of postnatal issues such as practical babycare, Postnatal Depression and physiological changes in the postnatal period.
We hold a full breastfeeding class.
A chance to build real friendships with people in a similar life-changing position like you.
A wonderful postnatal reunion.
Some Of The Topics Covered In The Course Include...... Preparing for Labour
How do I know I am in labour? What are the signs? When should we go to hospital? What can we expect to happen? What danger signs should we be aware of?
Coping with Pain
Can we keep stress out of labour? What effect can stress have on our baby and the outcome of labour? What relaxation techniques could we consider using? Are there any positions that can make my labour and birth shorter and easier? Is massage an option? Does it work for all women? Should we practice breathing techniques? Surely my breathing will take care of itself?
Pain Relief
Advantages and Disadvantages of pain relief. How do we weigh up the benefits and risks of each form of pain relief and at what stage in labour are they most effective?
Role of Birth Partner
"It's important that fathers make the decision to include themselves in the pregnancy and birth. It took two people to conceive. Fathers who take prenatal and birth classes learn how to support mothers during pregnancy and during the birth. They become familiar with how to be a good "coach". What new fathers often don't know is the importance of their presence to the baby during the birthing process, and the effect they have on the baby's later development. "
What role can labour supporters play and what are their needs? What assistance can Dad provide, in pregnancy, labour and in the care of his newborn? Can he make a difference? How can he communicate effectively with the medical profession and be part of the decision-making process?
Hospital Procedures What are the implications of an induction? What are the advantages and disadvantages of a ventouse/vacuum delivery or forceps? When does one take precedence over the other? How will I cope with an episiotomy? Is tearing as bad as it sounds? Can we avoid it? What are the chances of having a caesarean? When is a c/section inevitable? What will it be like? Are there any tips for a speedy recovery?
Breastfeeding
Why breastfeed? What can I expect in the first week? How can I avoid sore nipples? How do I know my baby is getting enough? How can I recognise common problems and learn to solve them? What support is their in Adelaide for breastfeeding mothers?
What happens when I return to work? Will we discuss bottlefeeding? What is Dad's role? Postnatal Support
Why should I develop a support network? What happens if the birth does not go according to plan? What postnatal services are available?
Babycare
How do we deal with sleepless nights? What precautions can we take to prevent cot death? How will I know my baby is ill? What are the symptoms of colic? What can we do about it? What baby equipment should we invest in?
Postnatal Life
What will recovery after childbirth be like, emotionally and physically? How do we recognise postnatal depression and where can we seek help? Will this baby really affect our relationship? What will we gain and what will we lose? Time management with a newborn – can we start preparing now? Will our sex life ever return to normal? What are the choices in contraception? Additional Services
A small range of books and videos on all aspects of labour and breastfeeding are available on loan during the course. Postnatal and breastfeeding support by phone if you need it.
Want to know more?
When?
Courses last 6 weeks including a postnatal reunion. Childbirth preparation classes for first-time parents are scheduled to start each month, either on Monday or Friday. It is recommended that you book your place on the course between 18 and 20 weeks of your pregnancy. Your first class will generally be planned to start around week 30.
Where?
22 Linley Avenue, Prospect, SA 5082
Who?
Class sizes are limited to 4 or 5 couples maximum, ensuring plenty of individual attention. Every course is tailored to meet the needs of each couple.
What Cost?
Cost of the course: $250 - per couple for 6 sessions of two hours (8.00 pm – 10.00 pm).
(That breaks down to $22 per person per night).
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