Lamaze Childbirth Classes | Birthing Beyond LLC |

Virtual Hybrid Lamaze Childbirth Classes

Birthing Beyond, LLC classes are designed to give you the most current, evidence based information on healthy pregnancies, the birth process and getting off to the best start. I believe that you should have a comprehensive class that covers everything you may encounter as birth can be an unexpected adventure. By laying out all your options and choices you can eliminate a lot of anxiety and stress during the big day.

Currently providing virtual hybrid classes to minimize covid/viral exposures in pregnancy. Payment plans/discounts available if needed--Just ask as we are all in this together. ❤

I start by painting a picture of labor for you--separating out what you have heard from friends, seen on tv or read in books-- and share with you what people really do in labor. We will discuss a little bit of anatomy and physiology (or how baby rotates down and out) and create a personalized game plan for labor. We spend time finding your comfort level with laboring at home, when to go to the hospital/birth center or have your midwife come to your home.

Next we will go over how to navigate the hospital world--what to expect the moment you walk through the doors, how all the stuff works, what it looks like and why it would be needed; along with all of your options and choices. We will discuss pain medications (IV narcotics and epidural)--how they work and how to know the best time to use them. We will come up with great discussion questions for your OB/Midwife/Doula so that everyone is on the same page by the time you have a baby.

We will wrap up with what to expect with baby after birth. You will also learn how to make decisions when faced with the unexpected, because let's face it, labor is one big unexpected day! I am also available after class for any additional questions/concerns that may arise before baby. By discovering your own "familial wisdom" you can create an amazing Baby Day you will be proud of for the rest of your life!

Your Childbirth Class

Virtual

Tailored

First Baby

Childbirth

Latch Basics

This virtual class is perfect for first time families who want to know it all! We will go over a little anatomy and physiology (how baby rolls through the pelvis). Then what to expect in early labor, setting up an early labor plan and how to know when it is time to go to the hospital/birth center/ call midwife. Next we look at what people usually do in labor and what to expect at each stage. The second half of class we will discuss what happens from the moment you walk through the hospital doors, how all the stuff works so if an intervention is used it will feel familiar-- which will allow you to be able to take in the information easier. And of course we will cover medications, pain meds and epidurals so you know when would be a great time to use them and how they work. If you are hoping to avoid medication use I will give you strategies to avoid their use. You will receive 2 interactive books and easy to navigate app, class handouts and cliff notes, plus after class access if additional questions arise. We create a game plan for how you want to bring a baby into this world, give you questions to ask your OB/CNM/PED, and how to get off to the right start breastfeeding. Class fees can be applied toward virtual certified birth doula services. $175.

Your Refresher Class

Virtual

Tailored

Childbirth

Sibling Prep

Refresher

Our Refresher class is a great way to focus on the birth of this baby. We will review your previous experiences (what you liked, didn't like and what you would change), create a plan for welcoming this baby into the world and discuss ways to make a smooth transition for big sibling(s). Includes interactive book and easy to navigate app, 3 birth videos, class handouts plus 2 phone or video calls. Class fees can be applied toward virtual certified birth doula services. Includes discounted virtual international board certified lactation services if needed. $125.

Your VBAC Class

Virtual

Vaginal Birth After Cesarean

Refresher

Sibling Prep

Childbirth

Planning a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean)? We review your last birth, birth options, risk reductions, chances of success, what to expect and questions to ask as you navigate the many variables of VBAC. And we will discuss ways to make a smooth transition for big sibling(s). I can also help you find a VBAC friendly provider if needed. Includes interactive book and easy to navigate app, class handouts. Class fees can be applied toward virtual certified birth doula services. $125

Twins Childbirth Class

Virtual Hybrid

3 in 1

Twins

Childbirth

If twins are in your future our Everything You Need Twin Class is a perfect opportunity to get all your questions X 2 answered!

We will cover supporting a healthy twin pregnancy, reducing preterm labor risks, identifying preterm labor and your delivery options. I will give you questions for your OB/CNM as you navigate the many variables of twins. You will receive 3 interactive books with an easy to navigate app, handouts and follow up phone calls as needed. This class can be taken early. Class fees can be applied toward birth doula services. Includes discounted international board certified lactation services if needed. $175.

Your Newborn Care Class

Virtual

Newborn Care

Your newborn care class will get you off to the best start caring for your newborn. You will receive an interactive book and an easy to access app. We will have 2 phone or video calls to answer all of your questions (before and after baby). We will cover Newborn traits, Newborn behaviors, Crying and comforting, Feeding, Diapering, Bathing, Newborn health, Newborn safety, When to call your baby’s healthcare provider, Favorite baby books and Happiest Baby on the Block. $100.

Your Breastfeeding Class

Virtual Hybrid

Breastfeeding

Your Breastfeeding Class will help you and baby get nursing off to the best start possible. You will receive an interactive book with an easy to navigate app, We will have 2 phone or video calls to answer all of your questions (before and after baby). We will cover:

How breastfeeding works, Getting the best start, Positions, When to feed your baby, Getting enough milk, Breast care, Hand Expression and pumping, Warning signs and Breastfeeding lifestyle. Discounted lactation services available if needed. $100.

Can my partner, mom, best friend attend class with me?"

You are welcome to share materials with your support family so everyone is on the same page for labor, newborn care and breastfeeding. Especially great for grandparents! And when we resume in person classes--Anyone who will be supporting you through labor is welcome to attend!
Private class vs Hospital class

***Currently during the Covid-19 pandemic all local KC metro hospitals have suspended in hospital classes. As a previous Advent health instructor my classes are hospital approved, evidence based and consumer orientated.*** In person, private classes will resume when it is safe to do so. My prioriity is the safety of your family and mine. When a vaccine is available for the sars-covi-2 virus I will be vaccinated to help protect my community with herd immunity. My private class allows you to be in the comfort of our own home. Information is tailored to you and your needs. We can usually cover all material that would be covered in the hospital class iin a shorter time. Sometimes it is easier to ask more personal questions in a one on one setting especially if you have any special circumstances surrounding this pregnancy--- loss of partner, known abnormality, high risk, etc. I have educated and supported many clients through through difficult circumstances. You may also want to maintain a level of personal privacy if you are a public figure. All clients are kept confidential. Others like the group class option so they can hear others questions. comments and meet new people. Classes usually span 4-5 weeks or have a 1 day option. Some enjoy taking the time of weekly classes to focus on there pregnancy with their partner. The hospital class usually has a hospital tour. You will learn about their standard procedures and basic labor coping skills, along with medication use. If taking a private class you can schedule a private tour, go on a monthly tour or tour at your preadmit appointment. My classes are the same as when I taught in a hospital setting and wrote their curriculum. Knowing you have an consumer based class leaves you empowered to make the best choices for you and your family.
When should I take a class?

Ideally I would finish up at least a month before you are do. If anything unexpected comes up in your last few week you can call me. We can discuss what is happening, I will walk you through the different scenerios and give you more questions for your provider. And, of course, I always like to hear all about your baby day! If pregnant with multiples I recommend you take a class early in your pregnancy. Discussing nutrition (ways to meet caloric needs when you always feel full). how to recognize early labor symptoms, making sure you and your provider are on the same page for birth, checking the NICU levels of your hospital, etc. And you are more comfortable!
When can we schedule class?

Our current private, virtural hybrid class allows you to review material through our interactive book and app. You can then schedule a phone or video call at your convenience to review material and tailor it to your family. I am available days, evenings and weekends. (Lot's of time while we shelter in!)
I am planning on an epidural. Do I need a class?

It can be very helpful. Understanding hospital admission procedures, triage, pre-requirements for the epidural, how to minimize unwanted effects, maximum beneficial effects will all be covered in class. Having basic comfort measure techniques can help make the early part of your labor much more manageable and less anxious. Epidurals can be great tools for helping your baby decend and speeding up your labor when timed correctly. And regardless of intent I cover all aspects of labor and the hospital so you feel prepared to navigate your birth!
I am planning on a low intervention birth. Can you help?

Yes! We will lay down a game plan for birth, demonstrate positions and comfort measures, give your partners lots of ideas on how to help you focus; work on reframing your thoughts and giving you full support! And regardless of focus, I do believe in covering all aspects of birth and the hospitals so you feel prepared to navigate your birth! Especially as support people are limited to 1 in all current KC metro hospitals.