Frequently Asked Questions
In these classes, you'll learn how to prepare for your baby's arrival by focusing on a healthy pregnancy and creating a safe environment. We'll introduce you to Lamaze International and the 6 Safe and Healthy Birth Practices recommended by the World Health Organization. Together, we'll explore informed choices and create a personalized birth preference plan.
You'll also learn how to build a strong support system, including discussions with your partner about how they can support you during labour and birth. We'll address common pregnancy issues, help you approach labour and birth with confidence, and learn about managing pain using various strategies.
We'll cover interventions that may be needed during childbirth, empowering you to make informed decisions and collaborate effectively with your healthcare provider. Regardless of your pregnancy's risk level, you'll gain knowledge about potential challenges and interventions to confidently plan for a joyful birth experience.
After birth, we'll explore the "Golden Hour" and bonding with your newborn. You'll learn about postpartum changes and adjustments, as well as baby care fundamentals, safety, and breastfeeding techniques to nourish your baby and promote bonding and attachment.
Our prenatal classes are beneficial for expectant parents, including pregnant individuals and their partners or support persons. These classes provide valuable information and education about pregnancy, labour, birth, early parenthood, and breastfeeding which can help both individuals prepare for the arrival of their baby. Additionally, anyone who will be involved in supporting the pregnant person during labour and birth, such as partners, family members, or friends, may also benefit from attending prenatal classes to learn how to provide effective support during this transformative experience. Overall, our prenatal classes are suitable for anyone who wants to be well-prepared and informed about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting with the latest evidence-based information from a labour & delivery nurse.
The best time to start our prenatal classes is typically in the second trimester of pregnancy, around 24 to 34 weeks gestation. Starting our classes during this time allows you to have enough time to absorb information, ask questions, and prepare for labour, birth, and early parenthood. It also provides ample time to practice techniques learned in class and make any necessary preparations before the arrival of the baby.
Ultimately, the timing of starting prenatal classes is a personal decision based on individual preferences, availability of classes, and healthcare provider recommendations. It's important to choose a timing that allows you to comfortably complete the classes and feel prepared for the journey ahead.
Our prenatal education classes are offered over three days, and run each month, so you can plan your learning between 24-34 weeks of your pregnancy. These weekend classes are spread across three consecutive Saturdays from 1:00 - 5:00 at Lagoon Prenatal, our Colwood location, OR Sundays from 1:00 - 5:00 at Seaparc Recreation Centre, our Sooke location, providing a total of 12 hours of interactive learning. With spaces limited, our classes offer a personalized and engaging atmosphere. Upon registration, we'll contact you to schedule a video call where you have the opportunity to share your goals, have questions answered, and discuss concerns, allowing us to tailor the content of the classes to meet your specific needs. Get ready for an engaging and transformative experience as you prepare for the journey of pregnancy, labour, birth, and early parenthood!
Topics Covered in B2B Classes:
Lamaze International: History of maternity care in North America, Three Pillars, Six Healthy Birth Practices
Informed Choice & Shared Decision Making
Birth Preferences, Birth Plans and Advocacy
Importance of Support Systems: Partner Support
Common Late Pregnancy Discomforts with Comfort Measures
Pregnancy Challenges/Complications and When to Call your Healthcare Provider/911
Weeks/Days Leading up to Labour: Signs, Early Labour, True vs. False Labour, When to Call Your Healthcare Provider
Physiologic Labour: Stages of Labour & Birth, Role of Hormones
Concept and Role of Pain in Labour
Finding Comfort in Labour: Non-Pharmacological Techniques
Pain Management: Pharmacological
Labour Dystocia
Medical Interventions and Challenges/Complications
The Cesarean Birth
The Third and Fourth Stage/The Golden Hour
Meeting Your Baby: Bonding, Newborn Appearance, Abilities and Behaviours
What Happens After Birth: Newborn Tests, Assessments and Procedures
The Postpartum Period: Physical, Emotional, Social Changes & Ways to Manage
When Postpartum Becomes Challenging
Caring for Your Baby at Home: Newborn Communication, Safe Sleeping, Growth and Development, Soothing Techniques - PURPLE Crying
Newborn Medical Care: When to Call Your Primary Care Provider or Go to the Hospital
Breastfeeding: Advantages for Mother/Baby, Latch, Milk Supply, Pumping
When Breastfeeding Becomes Challenging
Alternate Feeding Methods
Yes, absolutely! Partners are encouraged to attend our classes with you. We believe that childbirth education is a team effort and having your partner present can provide valuable support and help strengthen your bond as you prepare for the journey of pregnancy, labour, birth, and parenthood together.
Our classes are designed to accommodate both expectant parents, and we welcome partners to participate fully in the learning experience. Whether you're a first-time parent or expanding your family, having your partner by your side can enhance your understanding, preparation, and confidence throughout the process.
When attending prenatal classes, it's helpful to bring along a few essential items to ensure you have a comfortable and productive experience. Here's a list of items you may want to bring:
Comfortable clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement, as some classes may include physical activities or demonstrations.
Snacks and water: Keep yourself hydrated and energized throughout the classes by bringing along water and some healthy snacks.
Note-taking materials: You can bring a notebook and pens if you like taking notes, but don't worry about it too much because we'll give you detailed handouts with all the information covered. That way, you can focus on listening, participating, and asking questions during the class.
Support person: If your partner or support person is attending the classes with you, ensure they also come prepared with comfortable clothing and any items they may need.
Comfort items: Consider bringing along any comfort items that help you relax, such as a cushion or pillow for seating, or a blanket for warmth.
Personal hygiene items: Pack any personal hygiene items you may need, such as tissues, hand sanitizer, or lip balm.
Open mind and willingness to participate: Finally, bring along an open mind and a willingness to participate in discussions, activities, and exercises. Prenatal classes are an opportunity to learn and prepare for childbirth and parenthood, so come ready to engage and ask questions.
By bringing along these items, you'll be well-prepared to make the most of your prenatal classes and gain valuable knowledge and skills for your pregnancy and childbirth journey.
Yes, the prenatal classes are suitable for both first-time parents and those who have had children before. The classes are designed to provide valuable information and support for expectant parents at any stage of their parenting journey. Whether it's your first pregnancy or you're adding to your family, the classes cover essential topics related to pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood. They aim to empower all participants with knowledge and skills to prepare for a positive pregnancy and birth experience, regardless of their previous childbirth experiences.
At our Lagoon Prenatal location, the B2B childbirth classes follow the Lamaze 6 Healthy Birth Practices, endorsed by the WHO, and tailored to meet the unique needs of each birthing team. Through a thorough intake process, we understand your desires for a satisfying prenatal and postpartum experience. Our classes are designed by an accredited labour and delivery nurse specialist, ensuring trauma-informed care.
Our mission is to ensure positive and empowering birth experiences by providing evidence-based knowledge relevant to maternity care in British Columbia. With extensive experience and strong collaborations with staff and families at Victoria General Hospital, we offer comprehensive support throughout your birthing journey, whether at the hospital or home.
Our hands-on training includes breathing techniques, pain management, and labouring and birthing positioning. We work closely with you to address your postpartum and newborn's needs and breastfeeding success.
To register for our Saturday classes at Lagoon Prenatal on the Westshore, simply visit our website at borntobirthprenatal.com and click on "Register Now for Saturday Classes." This will direct you to the Jane App on the Lagoon Prenatal website. Alternatively, you can go directly to https://lagoonprenatal.janeapp.com/ to register.
To register for our Sunday classes at Seaparc Recreation Centre in Sooke, simply visit our website at borntobirthprenatal.com and click on "Register Now for Sunday Classes." This will direct you to the registration page at Seaparc Recreation Centre. Alternatively, you can go directly to https://www.crd.bc.ca/seaparc/admission-registration/registration to register.
Yes, there are several additional benefits, resources and materials provided:
Enrolment for both the birther and their support person.
Free initial video consultation.
Over 12 hours of in-person, evidence-based prenatal education spread across 3 comprehensive courses: Childbirth Preparation, Postpartum and Newborn Care, and Breastfeeding Education – all for the cost of just one course.
Course material personalized to your learning needs.
Classes taught by a labour, delivery, and postpartum trained Registered Nurse from VGH and a Lamaze certified childbirth educator.
Email and ongoing support throughout your pregnancy and postpartum journey.
Access to a private Facebook group for further support and community interaction.
Beautifully designed handouts for your ongoing reference and review.
Discounted rental fees (15% off) at Lagoon Prenatal for ElleTENS Machines and/or The Birth Sling.
If you happen to miss a class, don't worry. We offer options to make up for missed sessions:
Catch-up materials: We provide catch-up materials, such as handouts or online resources, so you can review the content covered in the missed class.
Personalized support: I am available to answer any questions you may have and provide additional support to ensure you stay informed and prepared.
Flexible scheduling: If you miss a class, you may have the option to watch a recording of a previous session or join a future class, subject to availability.
Overall, we're committed to supporting you throughout your prenatal journey and will work with you to ensure you receive the information and resources you need, even if you miss a class.
Yes, our classes provide ample opportunities for asking questions and interacting with other expectant parents. Throughout the sessions, we encourage an open and supportive atmosphere where questions are welcomed and discussions are encouraged. Our instructor is there to address any queries you may have and facilitate group discussions to foster interaction among participants. Additionally, we may incorporate group activities or breakout sessions to encourage collaboration and peer support. We believe in the importance of community and learning from one another's experiences, so we strive to create an environment where you can connect with other expectant parents, share insights, and build a supportive network.
There are no specific requirements or restrictions for attending our classes. They are open to all expectant parents who wish to participate. Whether you are a first-time parent or have previous childbirth experience, everyone is welcome to join our classes. We aim to provide inclusive and supportive education to all individuals preparing for the journey of pregnancy, childbirth, and parenthood. If you have any specific concerns or needs, please feel free to reach out to us, and we will do our best to accommodate them.
Our instructor, Diane, is a highly qualified professional with the following credentials:
Bachelor of Science in Biology (BSc)
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and specialty trained as a Labour, Delivery, Recovery and Postpartum (LDRP) nurse.
Certified Lamaze childbirth educator (LCCE), ensuring participants are equipped with the latest evidence-based practices in childbirth education.
Extensive experience in various maternity care settings, including antepartum, labour & delivery, and postpartum care at NRGH (Nanaimo Regional General Hospital) and VGH (Victoria General Hospital).
Certification in breastfeeding from Douglas College, demonstrating expertise in supporting breastfeeders and their babies.
Specialized training in trauma, mental health, and perinatal addictions, providing sensitive and comprehensive care to individuals facing unique challenges during pregnancy and childbirth.
With Diane's diverse qualifications and experiences, our instructor is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality education and support throughout your pregnancy journey.
Yes, in addition to our prenatal classes, we offer a range of additional support services to meet your needs throughout your pregnancy journey:
One-on-one consultations: We provide individual consultations with our experienced instructor to address any specific concerns or questions you may have outside of class time.
Online members-only resources: Access to our online platform with supplementary materials, articles, and resources to support your learning and preparation for childbirth and parenthood.
Private Facebook support groups: Join our private online communities or support groups where you can connect with other expectant parents, share experiences, and receive support and encouragement.
Support and guidance with community resources: We can provide you with support and guidance with other prenatal services or healthcare professionals in the community, such as lactation consultants, doulas, or mental health professionals, based on your individual needs.
1:1 Breastfeeding support: Personalized, in-person breastfeeding guidance offered during your stay on the postpartum unit at Victoria General Hospital or once you've returned home.
Postpartum follow-up: We offer postpartum support and follow-up to assist you in the transition to parenthood and address any questions or concerns that may arise after childbirth.
These additional support services are designed to complement our prenatal classes and ensure you receive comprehensive support and guidance throughout your pregnancy and beyond.
The cost of our classes is $345, which includes 3 comprehensive courses—Childbirth Preparation, Postpartum and Newborn Care, and Breastfeeding Education—for the cost of just one. Furthermore, you'll gain access to exclusive members-only online resources, a private Facebook support group where you can ask questions and connect with other parents, as well as the option for one-on-one consultations.
Diane, your labour & delivery nurse educator, will be on hand for personalized, in-person breastfeeding guidance offered during your stay on the postpartum unit at Victoria General Hospital or once you've returned home. In addition, you will receive postpartum follow-up to offer ongoing support and guidance, should you feel the need for it.
We strive to ensure that our classes are affordable and provide value for the investment you make in your pregnancy and childbirth education. Please contact us directly for detailed pricing information and to discuss payment options that work best for you.
Applying what you've learned in the classes to your birth plan involves several steps:
Review Your Notes: Take time to review your notes and any materials provided during the classes. Reflect on the information discussed and consider how it aligns with your preferences and values regarding childbirth.
Discuss with Your Healthcare Provider: Schedule a discussion with your healthcare provider to review your birth plan. Share the information you've learned in the classes and discuss how you can incorporate your preferences into your plan while considering any medical recommendations or constraints.
Personalize Your Plan: Tailor your birth plan to reflect your specific preferences, concerns, and priorities. Consider aspects such as pain management options, labor positions, interventions, and postpartum care preferences based on the knowledge and strategies discussed in the classes.
Communicate with Your Support Team: Share your birth plan with your support team, including your partner, family members, doula, or other birth attendants. Ensure they understand your preferences and are prepared to advocate for your choices during labor and birth.
Stay Flexible: While it's essential to have a birth plan, it's also crucial to remain flexible and open-minded. Labor and birth can be unpredictable, and plans may need to be adjusted based on the progress of labor and the health of you and your baby. Trust in your ability to make informed decisions in the moment.
Continued Education and Preparation: Continue to educate yourself and prepare for childbirth by attending follow-up classes, reading relevant literature, and seeking support from your healthcare provider and community resources. The knowledge and skills you've gained in the classes will empower you to make informed decisions and navigate your birth experience confidently.
Yes, we have testimonials and feedback from previous participants available for you to review. These testimonials provide insights into the experiences of individuals who have attended our classes and can offer valuable perspectives on the content, instructor, and overall benefits of the program. You can find testimonials on our website or by contacting us directly. We welcome you to explore these testimonials to help you make an informed decision about joining our prenatal education program.
Saturdays in Colwood, BC:
Born to Birth prenatal's monthly childbirth classes are held at Lagoon Prenatal.
Please check the Lagoon Prenatal website for more information:
Sundays: in View Royal, BC
Born to Birth Prenatal's monthly childbirth classes are held at Maven Pelvic Health.
Please check the Maven Pelvic Health website for more information:
Online on our website:
