This is a very interactive workshop designed to create confidence in not only in the birthing woman, but also her partner.  The class is scheduled every quarter and is for Fresno and Central Valley families planning a home birth or hospital birth.

See the Calendar for the class scheduled this quarter. (The class name is abbreviated to BPWG)

WHAT WE DO IN THE WORKSHOP:

*Emphasize the significance of the partner’s role, enabling him/her with the skills and knowledge to enhance the birthing experience and the lasting memories

*Discuss pain and creative ways to labor - building a new pain coping mindset

*If you must have a cesarean, learn how to have a more positive experience

*Establish a new kind of breath awareness – trusting your body’s wisdom

*Enjoy relaxation exercises  …  massage, aromatherapy, music therapy

*Become familiar with the terminology and process of labor and birth

*Address fears, concerns, worries - questions are always welcome

*Experience a realistic, intense, enlightening labor simulation

*View labor/ birth videos and photos including waterbirth

*Discuss medical procedures, epidurals and options

The laboring techniques workshop is incorporated into this Preparation Weekend, and includes the following:

* Aromatherapy

* Music Therapy

* Massage Therapy

* Breathing techniques

* Creative labor positions

* Pain coping practices and techniques

* Relaxation and comfort suggestions/practices

* The partner's role and how he/she can effectively

support and assist the mother in labor

* Rotation techniques for babies who are malpositioned

* Enhancing communicating skills with each other & the staff

The emphasis is on having a healthy baby and a positive birthing experience, doing whatever it takes to help make that a reality.