Classes & Programs
Parent & Childbirth Education Classes
Preparation for the birth of your baby should begin by taking part in the many educational classes offered for prospective parents at Women’s & Children’s Hospital, a campus of The Regional Medical Center of Acadiana. We strongly encourage parents to attend as many prenatal classes as possible. Our instructors can educate you about the birthing process and eliminate fears whether you are choosing natural childbirth or an anesthetic such as an epidural. Please call the Women’s & Children’s Resource Line at 1-877-30-CARE-1 for more information. All of our classes are free for those pre-registered to deliver at our hospital.
Register online by clicking the class you are interested in below or by calling 1-877-30-CARE-1.
Preparing for Childbirth
The purpose of this class is to teach the couple about labor and delivery. Topics will include admission procedure, pain interventions, labor and the coach's role, delivery of the baby and a tour of one of our Labor/Delivery/Recovery Suites. Classes fill quickly, so enroll early and ask to take a class during your 7th month of pregnancy. Free if pre-admitted.
Refresher Class
This class is for expectant mothers who have previously had a baby. The class reviews labor and delivery. There will also be a brief review of breathing and relaxation techniques. Information will also be provided on how to prepare siblings for the arrival of a new baby. The class will also update you on newborn care and admission procedures for the baby. A tour of the labor and delivery unit will be included in the class. Free if pre-admitted.
Breastfeeding Class
This class gives expectant parents an overview of breastfeeding. The class covers many topics such as nursing the baby for the first time, latch-on techniques, anatomy/physiology and prevention of breastfeeding problems. Free if pre-admitted.
Baby Basics
This class is to prepare parents for baby's arrival. The class focuses on nursery admission procedures, baby's physical needs, bathing, diapering and dressing, feeding, and preparing the home for the baby. Attendees also receive a tour of the nursery. Free if pre-admitted.
Infant Stimulation & Development
This class is for parents and other infant caregivers. This class teaches how to stimulate the infant's five senses through play activities/appropriate toys and highlights growth and development during the first year. Parents learn how to understand infant crying behavior and how to adapt to the infant's needs. The goal is to educate participants about creating a positive environment that produces a happy baby. Free if pre-admitted.
Sibling Classes
Children experience many feelings and concerns about a new member joining the family. This class helps the new big brother or sister prepare for the arrival of the new baby. Children will learn how to safely interact with the baby. This class is for children from 3 to 9 years old anticipating a new brother or sister. Free if pre-admitted.
Lamaze or Bradley Classes
Learn the Lamaze or Bradley technique for childbirth from trained professionals. Expectant mothers can receive the names and phone numbers of these instructors by clicking on the link above. Parents are encouraged to call the instructors early since these popular classes fill up quickly. Fees are paid to the instructors as these classes are taught independently from all hospital classes.
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