Childbirth Education and Tours
We are currently offering our classes in person with limited attendance and online. Topics include childbirth and newborn care, infant safety, breastfeeding and mood changes. Call (260) 435-7338 to register today.
The Birthplace at Lutheran Hospital offers a variety of prenatal classes taught by experienced instructors in an informal, participation-friendly atmosphere to help families prepare for childbirth and parenthood.
We recommend expectant parents take classes during the seventh or eighth month of pregnancy. Class sizes are limited, so early registration, around the fifth month of your pregnancy, is encouraged.
To view all upcoming classes, download the 2023 class schedule. Our childbirth education teams are here to offer support whenever you need it. After reviewing our educational offerings, please feel free to contact us at (260) 435-7338.
Childbirth & Newborn Care
Childbirth classes prepare you for delivery. We recommend all first-time parents take this two-session series or the full-day Saturday class. This class answers many questions about your hospital stay and includes a tour of The Birthplace. Instructors will discuss the entire childbirth process, including vaginal, cesarean and assisted-delivery procedures, as well as the phases of labor and stages of delivery and recovery. Other topics include coping skills, basic breathing techniques and pain management options. Those enrolled in Childbirth & Newborn Care will tour the unit with their class. There will always be an online option for childbirth classes and virtual tour available for those who prefer that option.
Newborn care and what to expect during the first few weeks at home are also included. Demonstrations and videos explain how to hold, soothe, diaper, bathe and feed baby. When to call the doctor, how to tell if baby is sick and what to do when baby cries are also covered.
Breastfeeding
Learn more about breastfeeding from internationally board-certified lactation consultants. This class provides important information about breastfeeding, baby and recognizing if the baby is not getting enough breast milk. Fathers are strongly encouraged to attend.
This class is especially helpful for:
- First-time moms and dads
- Those who previously had a negative breastfeeding experience
- Mothers with flat, inverted, short or large nipples
- Mothers with very large or small breasts
- Those expecting multiples
- Mothers at high risk (pre-eclampsia, known fetal anomaly, etc.)
- Mothers who have had breast surgery (reduction, augmentation, trauma, etc.)
- Parents who want to better understand the benefits of breastfeeding and its challenges
Infant Safety and CPR
One of the most exciting and challenging aspects of parenthood is being entrusted with the health and well-being of your baby. This class is an American Heart Association CPR for family and friends course that teaches CPR and choking management, recommendations for childproofing the home and basic car seat safety.
Class size is limited to six couples per session. This class does not provide certification for teachers and/or daycare providers.
Mood Changes and Moms Class
This essential class explains the wide range of mood changes experienced during pregnancy and up to a year after delivery. Moms, dads and support people can learn how to recognize the symptoms of mood swings and how to address them before they become extreme.
Families who arm themselves with information about mood changes related to pregnancy are more apt to seek and receive help when symptoms first develop and are better able to enjoy pregnancy, delivery and baby.
This class is just one element of the Mood Changes and Moms program, which also includes a support group for expectant and new moms along with access to helpful resources.