Programs and Services...
Labor Preparation Series: 7 classes emphasizing birth planning and informed choices for pregnancy and birth. A variety of individualized approaches and techniques are presented. Topics are covered through lectures, films, handouts and group discussion. Topics include relaxation and breathing patterns for labor, labor and birth positions, exercise, nutrition, the role of the labor support person, labor variations, cesarean birth, labor medications and technology, and birth physiology. Classes meet weekly and enrollment is limited.
Postpartum Series: 4 classes designed for the new family. The focus is on the first few weeks and months of being a new parent and the difficulties and rewards of the postpartum period. Emphasis is on group support and sharing. Topics include infant development, breast and bottle feeding, soothing crying babies, immunizations, baby illnesses and checkups, infant massage, babyproofing and safety, daycare choices, and postpartum physical and emotional adjustment. Bring baby!
Breastfeeding Education, Support and Counseling Designed to support and encourage women who are exploring or choosing to breastfeed. Topics include the benefits of breastfeeding, breastfeeding basics, myths, latch-on and positioning, problem-solving, returning to work, pumping and weaning. Ideal for late pregnancy or early postpartum.
Labor Refresher Series: 4 classes designed to provide an intensive review of techniques for those who have experienced at least one prepared birth. An update on new techniques and birthing alternatives is presented in addition to a discussion on sibling adjustment and past birthing experiences. VBAC information and support is included. Enrollment is limited.
Private Tutoring can be arranged to meet individuals with special needs. In-home instruction for busy couples, mothers confined to bed, adoptive parents, and others, is offered upon request.
Labor/Doula Support -
FCEA believes that all women and families deserve quality support in
their labor experience. Our certified instructors are available to provide labor
support at a discounted rate to all clients. Emotional and physical support, support for the partner and assistance in communication and advocacy are provided.
For more information about Foothills Childbirth Education Association's labor
support services call us at 225-6477.
Fees for Labor/Doula Support:
FCEA Clients: $350.00
Non-clients: $500.00
Financial assistance is available for clients seeking these services,
based on a sliding fee scale.
Clients are never turned away because of financial need.
Sibling Preparation Class: is designed to prepare children over 3 years of age for their new role in the family. Positive sibling adjustment is facilitated through discussion of what the older child can expect of the new baby, how the child can demonstrate helpfulness, and development of independent behavior. Activities include viewing a video and creating birthday cards to welcome baby. This one-time class is offered upon request.
Children-At-Birth Class: is designed for children over 4 years of age who plan to attend the birth of their new sibling. The birthing experience is discussed from the child's point of view in age-appropriate language, followed by a children's birth film. Parents are encouraged to attend. This one-time class is offered upon request.
Breastfeeding Education, Support and Counseling Designed to support and encourage women who are exploring or choosing to breastfeed. Topics include the benefits of breastfeeding, breastfeeding basics, myths, latch-on and positioning, problem-solving, returning to work, pumping and weaning. Ideal for late pregnancy or early postpartum.
Library Resources and Speaker's Bureau: FCEA has developed an extensive collection of books on pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and parenting, as well as several films on family centered childbirth. For a small rental fee, these resources are available for public use. FCEA instructors are available to make presentations to organizations regarding the birthing process.
Monthly Meetings: The FCEA Board of Directors and faculty meet on the second Friday of each month, at the Womancare Midwifery offices. We encourage prospective members to attend.