Childbirth Classes in Ventura County

The area of childbirth in our health care system can be confusing and even frightening for first time mothers. Less health care money is available for new mothers to stay in the hospital during labor and after the birth, so it's important for parents-to-be to learn all they can about the arrival and care of their first baby. There are several different methods to prepare for labor and get through it with the least amount of stress and discomfort possible.

The most popular method, according to the sources I was able to find in Ventura County, is the Bradley Method. Most of the childbirth classes are taught by Bradley Certified Childbirth Educators, which is a method involving the husband as the childbirth coach.

There are many important things every pregnant woman should know in preparation for the birth of their baby. Moms-to-be are better prepared to make decisions about labor and delivery once they're aware of the options. From natural birth with no drugs, to epidural blocks for pain relief, to cesarean sections for situations beyond their control, knowing what's available in the delivery room will ease your mind and make you feel more in control. By the time you finish a course on childbirth, you will understand everything that will happen before, during and after the birth of your baby.

Most classes will offer advice on exercises to prepare for delivery and positions to keep the mother more comfortable. Advice on breastfeeding is important before the baby is born so that nursing begins with confidence. Basics, such as changing diapers and bathing baby, are also covered. Nursing staff in maternity units in many hospitals have been reduced to meet budgets and there isn't as much time as there used to be for them to instruct new mothers on caring for their baby, so even mothers who are planning on an epidural or cesarean birth will benefit from childbirth classes.

Felicia Henry
email: flhenry@mybirth.net

Bradley Certified Childbirth Educator (AAHCC) &
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant
Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks
(805) 218-6156

Felicia offers three different options for classes:
Full Bradley Method Course - $150
Bradley Method Mini-Course - $30 per class or $100 for all 4 classes
Bradley Method Refresher & Home Study Classes - $15/hour with 4 hour minimum

Lilly Meehan
email: LMeehan93003@aol.com

Childbirth Education Classes
East Ventura
(805) 647-6633

Lilly offers five different options for classes:
Group Childbirth Classes - $125
Drop-In Childbirth Classes - $25 per class
The Crash Course - $40
Birth Class In A Bag - $25
Video Childbirth Classes - $10/class or $80 for the series

Lamaze Method
Sponsored by Conejo Valley Neighborhood for Learning

Crowley House
2522 Pleasant Way
Thousand Oaks
(805) 496-9035
6 week course - $85 per couple