Pregnancy and Childbirth Classes and Support in Traverse City, Michigan

Childbirth Preparation

Childbirth Preparation FAQs:

Does having a "positive birth experience" really matter?

Absolutely. Birth is one of the most profound, life changing experiences a woman will ever have. Your experience, and more importantly, your feelings about your experience, have deep long-lasting effects on many aspects of your life: Your feelings about motherhood, your body self image, your future pregnancies and births. Preparing for childbirth can help you gain confidence and trust in your body and the birth process. This will help you process your birth experience in a positive way.

I've read books, checked out the web, watched Baby Story on TV. Why do I need a childbirth class?

Not all information sources are good ones. A good childbirth class can filter all of the relavent and current information for you. It should be research based and take into account your specific situations and concerns. You will get to share your story and learn from other couples and the instructors experiences. You will get to learn practical stuff: Relaxation, breathing, and massage techniques, postitions for labor and delivery, how to have an effective pushing phase. Most importantly, you can ask questions and express your concerns in a warm and comfortable environment.

I think I want an Epidural. Should I still take a class?

That's a very common question...and the answer it yes!

Just because you are considering pain medication during your birth doesn't mean you shouldn't learn as much as you can about the birth process, what to expect, and the non-pharmaceutical comfort measures. Plus, in our class, you will get all the facts about pain meds and some strategies to use when deciding whether or not to use them.

Why should I take a class from Small Talk?

Did you know only about half of first-time parents choose to take childbirth preparation classes?

Our classes are short: Only two evenings long. Our classes are small: Usually only three couples or less. We offer private classes for couples who would prefer them. Small Talk keeps abreast of current research and is constantly re-designing the class to keep it fresh. No moldy old lectures. We encourage interaction, questions, and comments. This is not like school! Our classes are perfect for busy, professional people who can't commit to 6, 10, or 12 weeks of classes.

What will I learn in the classes?

Everything and anything about late pregnancy, labor, birth, and post-partum. Some topics include:

What you're experiencing during late pregnancy and why
The stages of labor and what to expect
How to know you're in labor
What a contraction feels like
When to go to the hospital and what to expect when and you get there
How to REALLY create a positive birth experience: Questions to ask, how to get the help you need.
Natural comfort measures for labor
The real story about epidurals and how to choose
Common interventions during labor and how to avoid them
How your partner can REALLY help you!
How to avoid a C-section
Feeling your best after your baby's birth

Above all, we believe birth is something you do, not something that is done to you. We believe that birth is a normal, natural experience, but we respect your individual choices and desires. Everyone has different priorities and goals for their birth. We want to help you get there!

Study materials are included in your fee.

Creating the Birth You Deserve

August classes:

Saturday, August 1

Sunday, August 9

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

$125/ couple

Private classes, One evening or Saturday morning. 3 1/2 hours, $150.

Call Heather for details. 231-313-6068

Not your first time, but you want a refresher?

Would you like to do it differently this time?

"Doing it Differently This Time" Class

Private, 2 hours, $150

Call or email to schedule.

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Confident Parent - Content Baby!

This more than just a "Newborn Care" class. Yes, you'll learn the basics of baby care: bathing, diapering, treatment options, etc. But, more importantly, you'll explore what it's like to really live with a Newborn. Find out how to create a content and happy home with your baby:

- Are babies really born three months too early?

- Why do babies need to "transition" from the womb?

- How does this make for a more content and easy-going baby?

- Can I prevent colic?

- How can I get more sleep?

- What is "baby-wearing"?

Come before the baby is born, or after. You'll be glad you did!

$50 per couple

Call Heather for information. 231-313-6068

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Some Books we Recommend:

The Complete Book of Pregnancy and Childbirth, Sheila Kitzinger

Ina May's Guide to Childbirth, Ina May Gaskin

Creating Your Birth Plan, Marsden Wagner, M.D.

The Birth Book, William Sears, M.D.

The Simple Guide to Having a Baby, Janet Whalley, Penny Simkin, Ann Kepple

The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth, Henci Goer

Birthing from Within, Pam England, C.N.M.

Mothering the Mother, Marshall Klaus, M.D., John Kennel, M.D., Phyllis Klaus

25 Things Every New Mother Should Know, Martha Sears

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