Health & Wellness Classes

Natural Childbirth Education

This is a class for expectant parents who are interested in preparing for an unmedicated childbirth. It includes all of the information taught in the Prepared Childbirth class (see description below), but with an emphasis on practicing those comfort measures that will assist you in pain management. You’ll learn how to strategize and work with your body and environment to improve your coping skills while birthing your baby.

The Prepared Childbirth Class focuses on late pregnancy, labor, delivery and the postpartum period. It includes information on relaxation and patterned breathing for labor as well as hospital procedures, anesthesia and cesarean birth.

Your instructor will inform you how to arrange for a tour of the labor and delivery and postpartum area of the hospital in which you will deliver.

Each couple will receive a packet of handouts on the presented material for future reference.

This class meets for four weeks for three hours on weeknights.

It is recommended that you register for a class that is scheduled to finish approximately two to four weeks before your due date.

Special instructions:
Please wear comfortable clothing (preferably slacks) and bring two large pillows, a watch with a second hand and paper and pen if you wish to take notes.

Schedule

• Wellesley office      [Directions]
  
  
  • Wednesday, September 15 - October 6; 6:00 - 9:00PM
    Register for this class (online, phone or mail)
    
    
  • Wednesday, October 20 - November 10; 6:00 - 9:00PM
    Register for this class (online, phone or mail)
    
    
  • Wednesday, December 1 - December 22; 6:00 - 9:00PM
    Register for this class (online, phone or mail)
    
    
  • Wednesday, January 12 - February 2; 6:00 - 9:00PM
    Register for this class (online, phone or mail)
    
    

  Fee:

  $169 per individual or couple;
  $154– discount rate for Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates patients and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care members

  Some health insurance plans offer reimbursements up to $100 after you have completed your prenatal education class. Call your insurance company to see if you qualify.

  Cancellation Policy:

  If you cancel your registration for non-medical reasons, a partial refund will be given only if your space in class can be filled. If we cancel a course due to low enrollment, you will receive a full refund and will be notified 2 weeks before the course begins.