Yoga Mamas Childbirth Education Course
$349 per couple
Our weekend prenatal education course will cover everything from the stages of labour and coping techniques to caring for a newborn and breastfeeding. The goal of this course is to prepare expectant parents by providing fact-based information and support to ensure that regardless of where or how moms choose to give birth, they feel confident and prepared.
Your Course Includes
  • Course tuition for two people
  • Reference book 
  • Pre and Postnatal Resource List for new parents​
What all couples can expect out of this course: 
  • A safe space to discuss your fears, concerns and plans for childbirth and life with baby
  • Non-judgmental, evidence-based information
  • A supportive, beautiful and caring studio environment
  • The friendship and support of other lovely expectant parents who are on the same journey as you
​"We could not have had a better experience! Adrienne was so amazing-- giving us worried parents-to-be peace of mind and tools to get through it. An added bonus was the lifelong friendships that followed, and a village to call our very own." Charlene

"This was such an awesome class and Adrienne was fantastic! Such a welcoming way to wrap your head around the whole "crap - we are going to be parents!" thing :)"
​- Melissa H

"Corina, the doula who lead the prenatal weekend course was awesome. She was knowledgeable and open to letting the discussion go in various directions to suit everyone’s questions. She was also so down-to-earth and honest. I appreciated learning from someone who kept things real." -Jasmine


​Course Frequently Asked Questions


​Do you talk about epidurals or medicated vs unmedicated births?
A: Yes! In class we discuss all possible medical interventions that your may encounter or choose during your birth. This includes how they work, what to expect and possible side effects. We believe there is no “right or wrong” way to have a baby, therefore we discuss all possibilities, including medicated and unmedicated births, from a non-judgemental perspective. What is provided is current evidence-based research and anecdotal information which can help you to make an informed decision when the time comes.

Will we learn positions and comfort techniques in class?
A: Yes again! Positions, massage, guided visualization and other labour techniques are demonstrated and practiced in class so you and your partner get a hands on experience. Comfy clothes are a good idea.

Why should I take this class over a hospital class?
A: Many hospitals offer great, informative classes. What our class here offers you is a more intimate class setting (max 8 couples per class) in a beautiful studio space. The small class size allows more freedom for asking questions and ensuring that you are getting all the information you need. It also fosters a sense of community, a lot of our previous class groups have formed lasting friendships to this day! When possible, we also have past couples return to share their birth stories. Sometimes we have guest speakers such as nurses and doulas. Overall, it is a safe, fun, laid back atmosphere where you get to learn all about the miracle of childbirth and postpartum. Plus, you get a free infant CPR class which is a pretty sweet deal. 

Do I need a childbirth class?
A: I always put it this way… Would you run a marathon without training first? Birth is a test of endurance;  exhausting, beautiful, magical and sometimes unexpected. While you can’t fully predict or practice your birth, you can prepare yourself physically, mentally and emotionally and this is where a good prenatal class comes in.  It will provide you and your partner not only with information in terms of what to expect during the entire birth process and how to manage with pain or discomfort,  but also what to expect postpartum and that first month home with the baby. Having a solid knowledge of the process and what can happen results in a more empowered and fulfilling birth experience. Plus, it helps your partner a great deal!Our class spends a lot of time highlighting the importance of your partner or birth support and gives them tips and techniques to help support you! 

How does this class differ from Hypnobirthing?
A: The Hypnobirthing class is another amazing option we offer at Yoga Mamas. While there are some similarities in terms of coping strategies used in labour and birth, Hypnobirthing education is based on a particular method of guided visualizations and relaxation (called The Mongan Method). 
​
In the Childbirth Education class, guided visualizations and relaxation techniques are also part of the comfort measures that you will learn but we also spend a great deal of time talking about labour and birth, the postpartum experience, medical interventions, postpartum expectations, breastfeeding and the importance of partner relationships. The approach this class uses is not based on one method in particular, instead it draws from many other birthing ideologies (including Hypnobirthing). For more information on HypnoBirthing visit our HypnoBirthing page.
"My husband and I really enjoyed our Yoga Mamas Childbirth Education session with Adrienne. We felt that because the class size was small enough (only 6 couples) we were able to really get to know the other parents-to-be in our class. Having that sense of connection with the other couples really helps when discussing your thoughts and emotions, and you don't feel afraid to ask questions. We also felt that the content that Adrienne covered was extensive and really encouraged each of the couples to explore and navigate their own journey through pregnancy and prepare for birth. Adrienne was great at teaching us to advocate for our own choices as parents. And of course, the Yoga Mamas studio is such a warm and welcoming place; being in a familiar location was comfortable and enjoyable."

Yoga Mamas Childbirth Education Course Outline

1. PREGNANCY PHYSIOLOGY AND HORMONES
Use of handouts to view baby in utero, highlight major organs/muscles and how it contributes to birth. Discussion of hormones and their role in childbirth and postpartum.

2. PAIN AND PAIN PHYSIOLOGY
Open discussion of what to expect in terms of pain and intensity and how to manage it. Pain theories also discussed.

3. STAGES AND PHASES OF LABOUR
Understanding a general labour time line walking through what to expect physically and emotionally during each stage of labour. Discussing different types of labour (slow to start, prolonged, overdue, quick labour etc.) Talking about when to go to the hospital or call the midwife. What to expect upon arriving at the hospital and/or what to expect during a home birth. VIEWING OF A BIRTH VIDEO ON THE SECOND DAY OF CLASS.

4. COMFORT MEASURES AND POSITIONS
A chance to learn and practice comfort measures including breathing techniques, visualizations, massage etc. Practice of positions to use during labour. Pain management techniques.

5. ROLE OF SUPPORT
Discussion of the importance of having support (partner, doula, friend etc.) and what role they play during labour. Understanding the important role your partner play and discussing self-care for them during the labour and birth experience.
6. MEDICAL INTERVENTIONS AND PROCEDURES
Discussion of types of interventions you may encounter in a hospital or home birth. We will be highlighting the most common procedures; epidurals, induction and C Sections. Risks and benefits of these interventions will be discussed.

7. INFORMED CONSENT/ SELF ADVOCACY/BUILDING CONFIDENCE
Discussion of what informed consent is and the importance of self-advocacy during labour and birth.

8. POSTPARTUM WHAT TO EXPECT AND SELF CARE
Discussion of what to expect physically and emotionally immediately after your birth and in your postpartum period. How to care for yourself and partner self-care during this time. How to get your home ready for the postpartum period.

9. THE NEWBORN
Discussion of newborn physical characteristics and sleep and eating patterns. Tips on soothing and caring for the baby. What to expect in the first month. We will practice swaddling, diapering and hold positions.  

10. BREASTFEEDING
Discuss the mechanics and physiology of breastfeeding. What to expect in the beginning and how to ensure successful breastfeeding is established if this is in your plan. Discussion of latch and how to tell if your baby is feeding/ getting enough. Cover normal physical discomforts that happen during breastfeeding and when to get professional support.  Cover bottle feeding and formula feeding as well.
Cancellation Policy:
Please note that we do not offer refunds. Cancellations made within 1 week of the event date will be credited to the account. Cancellations made less than a week from the event will not be credited or refunded. Thank you very much for your understanding.