Childbirth Education
Prenatal classes at Crestwood Medical Center are free. We recommend you attend classes between 28 - 32 weeks of pregnancy. All classes, unless otherwise specified, are held in Crestwood Medical Center’s OB classroom, located inside the Crestwood Maternity Center entrance. After entering the maternity center entrance, take elevator D to the 2nd floor and turn right into the first set of double doors.
Download a Prenatal Class Schedule
- Prepared Childbirth Class - This four-week course provides expectant parents with knowledge of the stages of labor and birth, hospital procedures, the different types of anesthesia, relaxation skills and comfort measures. A tour of the maternity center is also included in the class. Please bring two pillows and a blanket with you to this class for the breathing and relaxation exercises. One day Saturday sessions are also available (note: a Saturday class is a condensed version of the four-week sessions and offers an abbreviated version of breathing and relaxation. If you want more education on breathing and relaxation, please consider attending the 4-day course.)
- Natural Childbirth Class - This class will explore different strategies for child birth to include relaxation, breathing, and mediation. We will discuss birth plans and the important role of the partner as coach for the labor and birth.
We will also have guest speakers share information about services that they can provide to assist the expectant mother prepare for birth. This is a 2 class program.
- Breastfeeding Class - This class will provide mom and dad with the information needed to make an informed decision regarding feeding their baby and the necessary skills to ensure success with breastfeeding. We explore topics like how to get started, first feedings, positioning, dealing with common breastfeeding difficulties and nutrition while breastfeeding. Mom’s support person is encouraged to attend. Please bring a baby doll with you to this class.
- Sibling Class - Designed for preschool and early elementary school-aged children, this class can help moms and dads prepare older siblings for the birth of a little brother or sister. Through activities and discussion, this class provides an introduction to the hospital environment where mom and their new sibling will stay. It also helps the older siblings understand some of the changes that will be occurring in the family. Parents can attend the classes with their children. Please bring a baby doll with you to this class.
- Daddy’s Baby Boot Camp - This class is perfect for expectant dads who are concerned with how they can best support their partner during the birth experience and care of the newborn. This class will ensure dad is confident in the basics of baby care, including: diapering, burping, feeding baby, bathing, getting baby to sleep, tummy time, play time, cord care, taking baby’s temperature, keeping baby safe and baby’s warning signs.
- Grandparenting Class – The grandparenting class helps grandparents prepare for their roles by addressing changes in prenatal care, delivery and childcare, and what grandparents need to know in order to keep their grandchildren safe and support the parents in their role. This class will bring grandparents up-to-date with the latest birthing and child care information and will send a message to the parents that you are serious about being a good grandparent.
- Newborn Care - This class is designed for first time moms and dads and takes place over one evening. During the class, moms and dads will learn how to prepare for their baby, baby care basics, car seat safety and SIDS prevention. The class offers experience with skills such as diapering, bathing, cord care, dressing and feeding techniques. The class also includes cardiopulmonary resuscitation and choking for infants. Please bring a baby doll with you to this class.
Additional classes offered at Crestwood Medical Center (not part of our free prenatal class offerings):
- Gestational Diabetes Education - This program is an outpatient-based, multidisciplinary education program that can improve pregnancy outcomes for mothers with diabetes. Through one-on-one consultation with registered nurses and dietitians, expected moms learn about diabetes management, meal planning, glucose meter use and insulin administration. A physician referral is required. This class is covered by most insurance.
To register for a class, please submit the form below. For questions, please call: (256) 527-0285.
This form is intended to provide a helpful means for the public to connect with the hospital and provide feedback or ask a general question. It should not be used to request medical advice or ask questions about a particular patient's condition. For these types of matters, please consult your physician. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
For more information, please call: (256) 429-5251