Crescent Moon Childbirth Society

What your registration fee includes: Using the Lamaze Philosophy of Childbirth Education, we tailor individual classes to our clients, exploring together the many aspects of becoming parents. We may choose to explore the anatomy and physiology of pregnancy, normal labor & childbirth, and birth variations, as well as the many emotions that will be experienced along the way. The $250 registration fee includes the classes, free breastfeeding/new parenting clinics and info nights, and a free drop-in card for Semiahmoo Family Place, a local family resource centre.

What to bring: Pillow, pen or pencil, and copy of Baby’s Best Chance (if you have one). Please have a DVD player available for the films we watch. All other supplies and handouts will be provided.

Outline of sessions: There are 2-4 sessions, each lasting about 2-3 hours. During our first meeting we will get to know each other and begin to think about what you need to know in order to make good decisions for you and your family. You are also able to choose from our list of topics below.

Typically, we cover;

Session 1: Third trimester issues, and normal birth, including comfort measures.

Session 2: Normal birth, and move on to birth variations.

Session 3: Transitions after birth, breastfeeding, and life with baby.

Use of our resource library: This package includes use of the many books and DVDs in our Parent Resource Library.

Possible Topics:

General Questions about pregnancy

The difference between OB/GYN, Family Doctors, Midwives

Informed Consent and Choice

Hospital and Homebirth options

What are pregnancy, labor and postpartum doulas

Healthcare support while pregnant and postpartum (Acupuncture, Reiki, Chiropractic, Massage)

Nutrition and exercise

Baby and new mom essentials

Breastfeeding resources and accessories

Sleeping options for baby

Diapering options and cloth diaper demo

Baby sling demos

Twins

Late changes in pregnancy

Physical and emotional changes

Comfort Measures

Labour and Birth overview
Stages of labour (early, active, transition)
Timing of contractions

Signs of true labour vs. false labour
When to come to the hospital

Pushing and delivery

Coping Strategies and Pain relief options
Breathing awareness
Relaxation
Non-pharmacologic strategies

Hypnosis
Labour Medications

Variations in birth
Assisted Delivery

Postdates

Long early labour stage
Cesarean Birth
Your amazing newborn(s)
Newborn behavior and abilities
Newborn appearance

Strategies to calm a crying baby

Newborn Care
Newborn tests and procedures (PKU, vitamin K, erythromycin)
Diapering
Bathing
Cord care
Safety
Comforting the baby

Postpartum Care
Emotional and physical changes after birth
Postpartum blues vs. depression
Time management
Family planning
Community resources

Breastfeeding
Introduction to breastfeeding
Steps for successful breastfeeding

Inquire about optional breastfeeding follow up appointment

Special Concerns regarding pregnancy and labour
Maternal Medical conditions
Newborn medical condition

Your areas of interest—please add them here!