Classes
Natural Childbirth Education – This basic natural childbirth series covers the stages of labor, coping strategies, complications and interventions, getting started with breastfeeding, and alternatives in newborn care. We focus on working with the natural process. This class is taught by birth professionals including Licensed Midwives and Licensed Midwife Apprentices. There is no charge for this series, but donations are accepted. Call 803-802-9494 or email info@carolinabirth.org to register. You can also contact us for more information.
The following classes are hosted at the CCMC and taught by independent educators:
Birthing From Within – Birthing From Within-style classes use a holistic approach that gives parents the tools to birth naturally, and to birth-in-awareness if the journey takes unexpected turns. Class by class, parents practice and master a variety of proven pain-coping exercises to build their confidence and their skill set for the challenges of labor. We use lively, interactive methods to present information, so it will stick with you during the exhilarating stresses typical of birth and the postpartum adjustment journey. We balance that information with creative, experiential exercises that can help you tap into your own inner wisdom about birth and parenting. Contact Eileen Sullivan (call 704-905-4665) or Rena Henson (call 803-325-4822). See flyer for more details: 2010 BFW Flyer
Bradley Classes - The Bradley Method teaches natural childbirth and views birth as a natural process. This method encourages mothers to trust their bodies using natural breathing, relaxation, nutrition, exercise, and education. Class attendants learn a simple method of increasing self-awareness, learning how to deal with the stress of labor by tuning in to her body. The Bradley Method is also known as “Husband-Coached Childbirth” and classes teach husbands how to be good coaches for their partners. Classes are usually 10-12 weeks in length and cover: nutrition, exercise, active participation by the husband as coach, stages of labor, relaxation, breastfeeding, unexpected situations, and preparing for your new family. For more information contact Jen Kitchton at 803.547.1878 or jenkitchton@comporium.net
Breastfeeding Class – Breastfeeding is a natural process, and it is as much art as it is science. This class helps the expectant mother and her partner prepare for breastfeeding. The class includes: the benefits of breastfeeding, how to get started and how to know your baby is getting enough to eat. The ideal time to take this class is during the last month of pregnancy. Partners or another family member is encouraged to attend with the mother. The class is taught by Jennifer Moss Corbin, a Board Certified Lactation Consultant and a local La Leche League Leader. The cost of the class is $35. To register contact Jennifer at 704-540-2322 or jmosscorbin@carolina.rr.com
Hypnobirthing with Heather Fangman – Hypnosis is a safe, gentle, effective method for removing fear and increasing comfort in birth. Moms who take HypnoBirthing learn to work with their body’s natural instincts to bring their babies gently into the world. Dads and other birthing companions who take HypnoBirthing learn not only how to support moms in maintaining relaxation, but become an integral part of the birth process. Our statistics speak for themselves: In 2007, 15.5% of HypnoBirthing mothers had surgical births, compared to the national average of 32%. More than 70% of HypnoBirthing moms achieved unmedicated, vaginal births. To register for class, contact Heather at (704)966-6847 or visit www.CharlotteHypnoBirthing.org
The B.C.S.A.Y. Method™ - Learn how to empower your body, enlighten your mind, birth strong and be well with Birth Coaching Support And Yoga. This 3 hour monthly workshop developed by Belly Guru, LLC is taught by a licensed physical therapist certified in pregnancy yoga. This partner based class covers traditional birthing anatomy and physiology for both medical and natural management of labor. Instruction also expands to include using yoga for confidence building, pain management, physical support and post natal recovery. Education is also provided on physical and manual therapies and the development of a holistic birth plan, including birth partner roles, birth team communication and self care. Learn focus and how it feels to be confident in the process. Workshop fees include a take home workbook for partners to practice techniques. Register online at https://www.bellyguru.com/Packages.html or call Belly Guru at 704.780.4586
Post Natal Recovery Class: This class provides information on normal and abnormal healing patterns related to both vaginal and c-section delivery. Topics include: stress incontinence prevention, abdominal repairs, physical fitness, emotional health as well as self care for episiotomy and C-section scar management. Infants included in exercises and postural support to avoid common muscular strains associated with infant care and restoration of pelvic/abdominal strength. Class is taught by a licensed physical therapist specializing in women’s health. Call Lisa @ 704.780.4586 or register online at www.BellyGuru.com
Charlotte Prenatal Yoga – Our goal is to present a yoga practice to women from preconception through postpartum that is nurturing as well as empowering. Our offerings include breathing techniques (pranayama) and meditation as well as yoga postures (asanas) to strengthen, stretch and restore overall harmony in the body. In addition to a deeper connection with baby, classes result in an awakening to self and community. Classes are led by certified pre/postnatal yoga instructor Joan McDonough Wolfe. To register visit charlotteprenatal.com.
YogaMamas with Carol Feezell – YogaMamas™ is a prenatal exercise that combines elements of yoga and tai chi – Tai-Yo Flow™ – to create an ideal preparation for childbirth. Yoga elements include safe, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises that are specific to the needs of pregnancy. These exercises combined with breath awareness and relaxation practices help nurture a mind-body connection that allows a woman to respond appropriately to the many changes during pregnancy as well as to the demanding and awesome childbirth experience. The slow, flowing tai chi movements increase energy and increase the mother’s awareness of and connection to the growing and changing life inside of her. To register for class, call Carol at (704)691-4937.
