Classes in the Bradley Method cover all aspects of pregnancy, labor and birth to prepare couples for a healthy, happy experience. Topics include not only pregnancy exercises and basic anatomy, but also nutrition, the physiology of labor and birth, the emotional stages of labor, choices in childbirth, unexpected situations, and support and communication techniques. Breastfeeding, newborn care and the postpartum period are also covered.

The Bradley Method is based on the belief that birth is a normal, physiological process, and that the majority of women, with the right preparation and support, can give birth without routine medical interventions.

Class 1: Introduction to the Bradley Method and exercises to increase comfort during pregnancy and prepare the body for birth as well as a discussion of the medical vs. midwifery model of childbirth

Class 2: Focus on good nutrition and its importance in pregnancy, plus basic anatomy and an introduction to breastfeeding. Visit with nutritionist.

Class 3: Physiology of first stage labor, how to recognize and respond to the signs of labor

Class 4: Physiology of second stage, comfort measures for labor and the physiology of third stage labor

Class 5: Interventions in childbirth, natural ways to speed up your labor and the importance of developing a birth plan

Class 6: Recognizing variations and coping with unexpected situations including cesarean section and reviewing possible birth scenarios.  Visit with students from previous class that has experience with cesarean birth.

Class 7: Review of first and second stage labor and a labor rehearsal

Class 8: The how-to’s of breastfeeding.

Class 9: The postpartum period, newborn procedures and care

All class topics will be covered, however some may be switched around depending on need.

A class reunion will be held after all of the babies are born so we can meet the babies and share birth stories.