In a series of 10 classes, I will cover with each expectant couple the tenants of Bradley birthing: Exercise, Nutrition, Relaxation, Labor rehearsals & Informed Choices

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Class 1. Introduction, Exercise & Nutrition in Pregnancy  This class covers the history & philosophy of The Bradley Method®, getting to know the members of your class, & beginning to study things you can do to keep yourself healthy and low risk. We will introduce pregnancy exercises and discuss how to handle pain and avoid unnecessary pain in labor. We will discuss good nutrition during pregnancy so that you can make good choices in balanced nutrients and quantities. You will evaluate your diet with a nutrition worksheet & receive feedback on ways to improve it if necessary. Other topics include a video, sex during pregnancy, breastfeeding and continue studying what you can do to stay healthy and low risk during pregnancy.

Class 2. Gestation/The Coach’s Role  During this class, we will discuss the many changes your body goes through during pregnancy. We will focus on anatomy and physiology as well as common discomforts and how to handle them naturally. This is helpful for the coach as it makes him more aware and therefore more understanding of these changes. We will also begin to discuss some of the many choices you face regarding labor and birth. Pregnancy and childbirth from the coach's point of view. In this session we will discuss: coaching during pregnancy, the importance of natural childbirth, bonding, and the father's role in breastfeeding.

Class 3. Introduction to First Stage Labor  This class is on how your body works in first stage labor. We will cover anatomy and physiology of 1st stage, stressing our respect for the natural process and examining the built-in safeguards for you and your baby. We will teach basic coaching techniques and instruct you on how to practice together. Standard hospital admitting and prepping procedures will also be covered.

Class 4. Introduction to Second Stage Labor  We will cover the anatomy and physiology of 2nd stage labor, stressing our respect for the natural process and examining the built-in safeguards for you and your baby. We will discuss the importance of the natural alignment plateau and the fetal Heimlich maneuver. Basic pushing techniques and 2nd stage positions, as well as the coach's role, will be covered. Third stage will also be discussed briefly.

Class 5. Planning Your Birth  Covers consumer information and how to make a birth plan. We discuss: what your choices are, the importance of evaluating your feelings and listing your priorities, and meeting with your medical team to discuss your choices in a positive way. There is also a first stage labor rehearsal in this class.

Class 6. Variations and Complications/Postpartum   We cover various complications including cesarean surgery discussing: how to avoid these problems if possible, how to evaluate whether it is necessary to intervene, and how to handle interventions that become necessary. We also cover information on taking care of yourself after your baby is born.

Class 7. Advanced First Stage Techniques  This class is filled with advanced coaching techniques dealing directly with the challenge of handling first stage labor. We will go over the First Stage Study Guide so that you can be sure you are well-prepared. We will also have a labor rehearsal and do some role playing.

Class 8. Advanced Second Stage Techniques  This class begins with vignettes of labor which help to pull together all of the information you have learned so far. We will also cover the Second Stage Study Guide & positions to be sure that you understand and are prepared to handle the second stage of labor.

Class 9. Being a Great Coach  At this point we will go over the B.E.S.T. techniques for labor and birth as a comprehensive review of the important points you will use while in labor. This class also covers information for coaches on how to handle the challenges they will face in labor. Emergency childbirth will be discussed, just-in-case the baby comes before you get where you're going.

Class 10. Preparing for Your New Family  Begins with an advanced labor rehearsal. We will discuss the concluding chapter in your student workbook which is titled "Your Labor and Birth". We will also cover: newborn care, mothering, fathering, breastfeeding, how to handle a crying baby, and adjusting to the many changes you will face during this time.