Holistic Childbirth class in Oakland

I know your baby has probably already arrived….but perhaps you know of a family member or friend that is searching for a Childbirth class?  I would highly recommend checking out Jessica’s class if so!

Here is the information and details.

Holistic Childbirth Prep 5-week Series

It takes courage and confidence to plan for a natural birth, but it can also be one of the most miraculous and blissful experiences of your life! The myriad of choices surrounding pregnancy and childbirth can seem overwhelming at times, but the simple truth is that knowledge is power. My goal is to support and empower expectant parents to create their own intimate, natural birth experience.

This 5-week comprehensive series is designed to prepare you for the last weeks of pregnancy, labor, birth and postpartum recovery, as well as breastfeeding and newborn care. Sessions are 3 1/2 hours each on Saturdays. Classes include beautiful birth videos, valuable handouts, a copy of Ina May’s Guide to Natural Childbirth, hands-on activities and each end with a relaxation exercise.

Topics covered include:

– Self Care in Pregnancy

– The anatomy and physiology of normal birth

– The emotional aspects of the birth experience

– The baby’s experience of labor and birth

– The role of a supportive partner, friend or family member

– Comfort Measures & Coping Techniques such as:

– Understanding pain: Injury vs. Natural Process

– Movement & Positions

– Water Therapy

– Breath Work & Vocalizing

– Massage & Counter pressure

– Techniques for back pain and long labors

– Variations on normal labor, and how to respond to them

– Risks and benefits of common interventions, how to avoid them and if they become necessary

– Postpartum Mother Care

– Newborn Care & Breastfeeding

An emphasis is devoted to caring for the postpartum mother, as this is a topic sorely absent from our culture. We will also discuss differences between hospital and home birth, creating your birth team and Informed Choice.

Participating in an 5-week series may seem like a long commitment, but its really an investment, giving opportunity to truly absorb information, practice relaxation and create a sense of community with other parents. Taught by Jessica Christen, Licensed Midwife, Certified Professional Midwife.

Cost:   $300 per couple (sliding scale for lower income families, no less than $150 per couple)

Dates*:   Dec 1st, 8th, 15th, Jan 5th, 12th Saturdays 10am-1:30pm

Perfect for EDDs end Jan thru early March

Location:  Jessica Christen’s Home in Lower Oakland Hills

3915 Laguna Ave Oakland CA 94602

Contact:    Jessica Christen, LM, CPM

blissmidwifery@gmail.com

(510) 928-7700

* Weekend and Private sessions can also be offered

* Dates are flexible depending on need and interest, please call or email for more information.