McDonough District Hospital offers a full range of childbirth and infant
care classes designed to help expectant mothers and families prepare for
the arrival of a new baby. From breathing and relaxation techniques to
breastfeeding and baby care, our staff will help you prepare.
L.A.T.E Prenatal Class
Join other expectant parents in a class designed to help women know their
birthing options, increase their confidence in their body's ability to
give birth, and to help their partners build the skills needed in their
role as her primary support person.
During the classes, your instructor will explain the stages of labor: Latent,
Active, Transition, and Expulsion (L.A.T.E.). They will incorporate not
only breathing and relaxation techniques but will teach various labor
positions to help make each phase of labor as manageable as possible.
Our instructors are experienced obstetrics nurses who are skilled at helping
women cope with the challenges of labor. They use humor to make this a
fun class for you and your support person. A tour of the DKSWC OB Department
will be included in this series.
MDH offers a 4-week L.A.T.E classes meeting over the course of four Thursday
evenings from 7:00 to 9:15 p.m.
Sibling Class
A one-hour class designed to help “big brother” or “big
sister” understand what it will be like to have a new baby in the
family. Class instructors use interactive play and videos to help siblings
see how important they still are in the family, even though they are now
the “big kids.” Milk and cookies are provided, and children
can color a picture to place on the crib of “their baby” after
he or she arrives. This class meets on Saturdays, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Cesarean Section
A one-evening class providing information about common reasons for cesarean
birth. One of our Obstetrics and Gynecology providers will join us to
explain what occurs while you are in surgery. We also discuss what to
expect during your postoperative period. This class is strongly recommended
for those who wish to have their support person join them in the operating
room. This class meets on Thursdays from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Breastfeeding
This is a one-evening class providing instruction on breastfeeding. A Certified
Lactation Counselor will provide information about the importance of breastfeeding
as well as tips and techniques to help make this an enjoyable time for
you and your baby. This class meets on Thursdays from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Postpartum Care and Understanding Your Newborn
This class focuses on what to expect after baby is born, such as: emotional
and physical changes you can expect, the importance of rest and proper
nutrition, and family planning. We also discuss normal characteristics
of newborns, including basic baby care tasks, when to call your healthcare
provider, and what information they will want to know when you call. This
class meets on Thursdays from 7:00 to 9:15 p.m.
Online Childbirth & Infant Classes
Can’t come to class? We can come to you! Our new online childbirth
class is the perfect alternative for busy parents needing a flexible class
schedule or for moms on bed rest. Have you given birth before? This online
class is a great refresher course! While nothing can replace the personal
connection of an on-site childbirth class, you’ll learn the same
essential information, including what’s happening to your changing
body, how you’ll know when you are really in labor, helpful comfort
techniques, advice for partners, an overview of medical procedures, and
much more.
Click here to learn about additional courses provided.
For more information, to sign up for childbirth classes, or to schedule
a tour, call
(309) 836-1570.
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