Having a baby can be overwhelming. That is the reason why Sheridan Memorial Hospital (SMH) has offered childbirth education classes to help expectant parents learn what is ahead of them for well over 30 years.
“We want to help parents have the very best start with their baby. Parents may have an idea of what to expect, but attending these classes helps bring their birth plan to life – alleviating fears and misconceptions. The better-prepared parents are for the birth and the more they know what’s ahead of them, the more they will be able to relax and enjoy their new baby,” according to Josie Fagerland, Women’s Health Registered Nurse and Prenatal Class instructor.
Childbirth Education Classes offered year-round
Specially trained nurses teach two different classes year-round at no charge. They discuss common fears, concerns, problems, and myths surrounding the wonder of childbirth. There is a specific focus on labor, birthing, and breastfeeding. Since the classes are held all year, expectant parents can attend a class whenever it is convenient for them. Often, they choose to attend when they are in the 2nd or 3rd trimester of their pregnancy.
Prenatal Classes
In the Prenatal Class, a nurse talks expectant parents through the stages of labor, vaginal and cesarean delivery as well as how to care for themselves after the baby is born. Some of the topics covered include: changes your body might go through, when to come to the hospital, what to bring, signs of labor, pain management, cervical exams, fetal monitoring, and what to expect during labor. The class culminates with a tour of the hospital’s birthing unit, which provides an opportunity to meet the caring, compassionate staff in the Women’s Health Department.
The Prenatal Class is typically held on the first Monday of each month.
Breastfeeding and Newborn Care Class
In this class, a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) from the Women’s Health Department talks through the basics of breastfeeding and care of the newborn. Though breastfeeding is natural it is not always naturally easy. Latching a baby onto the breast and caring for a newborn is learned and requires an immense amount of support early on. The CLC will provide clear and accurate breastfeeding and newborn care information for the “soon-to-be” mother and her support. By doing so, we hope parents feel better prepared and more empowered to care for themselves and their newborn(s). We cover breastfeeding expectations, strategies for success, and how to avoid or navigate complications. Topics include lactation processes, latch and latching techniques, nipple and breast care, breast pumps and pumping, diet considerations, transition of the newborn after delivery, newborn behavior, newborn screenings, elective procedures, diaper care, and basic car seat safety. During this 2-hour class, we will answer questions, ease fears and/or reinforce and build upon what you may already know.
The Breastfeeding and Newborn Care Class is typically held on the third Monday of each month.
How to Attend
Pre-registration for the childbirth education classes is required. To sign up online for either class, go to sheridanhospital.org and search for “I’m having a baby.” Once you sign up, an instructor will contact you via email before the class with instructions. Classes are free and recommended for parents expecting their first baby and as a refresher class for those parents expecting again. Both partners are encouraged to attend the classes, which are held in the Hospital’s Outpatient Center, 1333 W. 5th Street.
Learn more about our Women’s Health Department, take a video tour and sign-up for classes HERE, or by visiting https://www.sheridanhospital.org/medical-services/womens-health/im-having-baby/