This class draws from a variety of traditions and methods to offer you and your birth partner a broad-range of tools and techniques for managing your birth without drugs, if you choose. The main focus of the class is preparing you physically and mentally for a safe and satisfying birthing experience, covering everything from prenatal exercise to postpartum care. You will learn a wide variety of coping and relaxation techniques for labor, and your labor partner will learn effective ways to give you the support you need. (Time is allowed each week for practice with specific labor support techniques.) This course also includes some basic breastfeeding information.

Ideally this series should be completed before about 36 weeks of pregnancy, to allow time for further planning and practice based on what you've learned.