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Birthing Center Classes

Birthing Center Classes

From the earliest stages of pregnancy, Mercer Health provides educational opportunities to help with the childbirth experience. All classes are taught by qualified and experienced instructors in an informal classroom atmosphere that encourages participation.

Childbirth Education Classes
Our childbirth education classes are designed to prepare expectant parents for labor, delivery, and care of the new mom and baby following delivery. Our goal is to eliminate the fear of the unknown. We provide information on the stages of labor, pain management, relaxation and breathing techniques, hospital interventions, post delivery care, and newborn care. In fact, our last class is dedicated entirely to the care of the baby. We also include information on those final weeks of pregnancy including discomforts of pregnancy, coping measures of these discomforts, and when it’s important to call the doctor. The full series includes a tour of our Birthing Center and a bath demonstration. Both weekly and weekend sessions are available throughout the year. Register Online »

Topic Specific Childbirth Classes
Parents who have already participated in childbirth classes or expectant parents who are limited on time but would like topic specific classes are welcome to attend any of the classes that are of interest to them. Class 1 provides information on those final weeks of pregnancy, when it's important to call the doctor, and the various stages of labor. Class 2 demonstrates various relaxation techniques and discusses what to expect when you come to the hospital. Class 3 discusses after delivery care of the new mom, c-section information, and baby care. Register Online »

Breastfeeding Class
Breastfeeding is strongly encouraged during our special 2.5 hour Breastfeeding Preparation Program that is offered free to those who are planning to use this option of feeding their new baby. Topics covered include preparation, positioning, diet, potential problems and treatments, pumping, weaning, and other helpful hints. Register Online »

Big Brother/Big Sister Class
The joy and anticipation of a new child coming into the family is shared with other siblings in the Big Brother/Big Sister program. This 1.5 hour presentation is designed for chuildren 3 years old and older who will be getting a new brother or sister. In addition to helping them ease their anxieties, Mercer Health provides information to them about diapering, bottle feeding, safety and other important areas to help them feel like special big brothers/big sisters.  Register Online »

Mercer Health also offers education opportunities for those planning a Cesarean Birth (C-Section) or Vaginal Birth After C-Section (VBAC) delivery. This program gives expecting parents the chance to explore VBAC vs. C-Section. Such topics as complications, pain control, the role of the coach, anesthesia choices, care after the operation, and many other issues are discussed so women may discuss these with their physician. 

Maternal Care Center
Our Maternal Care Center provides guidance for expecting mothers concerning proper care. The Center works in cooperation with area physicians to ensure proper care of the mother and the growing baby within.

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