Childbirth Classes in Oklahoma City

Course Descriptions

• Prepared Childbirth: Expectant parents will gain confidence and feel better prepared to welcome their baby into the world by attending this class. This class will provide information about late pregnancy, preparing for labor and birth, how to know if you are in labor, the process of labor and delivery including common hospital practices, signs of labor, when to go to the hospital, hospital procedures, anesthesia and other alternatives, induction of labor, immediate postpartum and newborn care.
• Preparing for Cesarean Delivery: A 1-time class designed for parents who are planning a Cesarean birth. Preparing for surgery, anesthesia, surgical steps, postpartum and newborn procedures as well as recovery at the hospital and tips for recovery at home will be discussed.
• Childbirth, the Natural Way: This one-night class shows expectant parents tangible ways they can manage pain when choosing a non-medicated birth. This class introduces a variety of comfort techniques, including breathing, relaxation, massage, visualization and positions. It focuses only on techniques and interventions and should be taken after completing the Prepared Childbirth class. We encourage you to bring pillows and wear comfortable clothing.
• Baby Care: This fun and interactive class will help you prepare for the first few months of caring for your baby. This class teaches basic baby care skills, including bathing, diapering, soothing an infant, caring for the umbilical cord and circumcision. The class also discusses car seat safety, home safety, selecting child care and choosing a pediatrician. A guest pediatrician will discuss what to expect during well-baby visits and address other common quesitons and concerns with expectant parents. Parenting and child development topics are discussed along with many other important subjects.
• Basics of Breast Feeding: Breastfeeding is the most natural and nutritional way to encourage your baby's development. Expecting parents learn how to get breastfeeding off to a good start. We'll also cover mom's nutrition, dad's very important contributions to breastfeeding success, and how to know your baby is getting enough milk. Additional topics include pumping, safe storage of breast milk, maintaining milk supply and keeping your baby's interest in breastfeeding.
• Breastfeeding Beyond Birth: While research shows the positive benefits of breastfeeding, it doesn't always come easy. This class is for women with newborns up to 12 weeks old. We will gather in an informal group setting to share breastfeeding successes and challenges as well as share practical and hands-on information to make the journey a little easier. Information on breastpumps, tips and techniques will also be available.
• Infant and Child CPR: Mercy's Infant and Child CPR class follows guidelines set by the American Heart Association. The class provides information on performing CPR and relieving obstructed airways in infants and children up to the age of eight. Mercy encourages parents, grandparents and any caregivers to take part in this class. This IS NOT a credentialing or certification course.
• Sibling: This class emphasizes the importance of becoming an older brother or sister.  Important newborn characteristics and behaviors will be reviewed.  Kids will also talk about their role and learn basic newborn skills like holding and diapering the newborn.
• Grandparenting: This class acquaints new or expecting grandparents with current childbearing and baby-care practices. Topics covered include nursery procedures, hygiene, comfort, nutrition, medications and newborn safety.

Course Listings and Registration