The Family Unit at Elk Regional Health Center has announced its schedule of childbirth classes for 2012.
This year, The Family Unit will offer Lamaze classes, prenatal classes, and hypnobirthing classes designed to help pregnant women give birth with confidence. These classes will provide the most benefit to women who are approximately seven months along.
“It’s important to us to provide soon-to-be parents with the tools they need to calm their worries,” said Sara Myers, RN, the nurse manager of Elk Regional’s Family Unit. “We’ve found that when soon-to-be parents know what to expect, they are able to approach the birthing experience with more confidence.”
Lamaze recognizes childbirth as a normal, natural, healthy process and will provide women with the knowledge and skills they need to give birth.
The Family Unit will offer two six-week series of Lamaze classes beginning in March and August. The first series will be offered on March 8, 15, 22, 29, and on April 5 and 12. The second series will be offered on August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, and Sept. 6.
Prenatal classes offer attendees the opportunity to learn about the labor and delivery process, as well as newborn and postpartum care.
The Family Unit will also offer four four-week series of prenatal classes in May, June, October and November. The first series will be offered on May 3, 10, 17, and 24. The second series will be offered on June 7, 14, 21, and 28. The third series will be offered on Oct. 4, 11, 18, and 25. The final series will be offered on Nov. 1, 8, 15, and 29.
All classes are offered from 7-9 p.m. in the Education Center at Elk Regional Health Center’s St. Marys campus, located at 763 Johnsonburg Road, St. Marys.
Hypnobirthing classes provide pregnant women with the opportunity to learn relaxation techniques designed to eliminate fear, tension, and pain that can be experienced during birth. Attendees will also learn how to care for their newborns and themselves and will also learn about the labor and delivery process.
Hypnobirthing classes are taught by Linda Stewart, RNC, and are offered by appointment.
For more information, or to make an appointment for a hypnobirthing class, call The Family Unit at (814) 788-8558.
