Pregnancy is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. There is so much to think about, especially if you’re planning a natural birth outside of a hospital. Maybe you’ve been reading books, watching videos, or listening to friends’ stories. But sometimes, you just need a clear step-by-step guide.
That’s where childbirth classes come in. At BirthPointe, each class is designed to help you feel confident and ready. From the first “Welcome to Pregnancy” session to the hands-on “Train for Birth” workshop, these classes walk you through everything you need to know—without confusing medical jargon.
In this guide, we’ll break down what to expect in each class, why it matters for a natural birth, and how to get the most out of it. You’ll also find tips, real-life examples, and easy ways to put your learning into practice.
Ready? Let’s dive in.
Why Choose a Birth Center and a Natural Birth Option
Thinking about where to give birth? You have options. A birth center is very different from a hospital. The focus here is on supporting your body’s natural process.
What that looks like:
- Freedom to move around during labor
- Choices for upright or water-based positions
- Midwife-led care instead of routine hospital interventions
- A calm, home-like environment
Studies show that women who have more freedom of movement and fewer interventions often have shorter labors and feel more in control.
Ever wonder if a birth center is right for you? If you want support for a natural birth with knowledgeable guidance, BirthPointe classes will help you prepare in a calm, welcoming way.
Next step: Start exploring the classes that match your stage in pregnancy and your natural birth goals. See BirthPointe classes
Class 1 – Welcome to Pregnancy: Laying the Foundation
The first class is all about getting comfortable with your pregnancy. You’ll cover the basics:
- Healthy eating, weight gain, and exercise tips
- Safe medications and herbs
- Preparing your body for labor
We also talk about little things that matter, like which teas are safe or how to start a simple prenatal routine. It’s practical info you can use every day.
Why it helps:
- You’ll feel less anxious because you know what’s normal and what isn’t
- You’ll start building strength for labor
- You’ll get answers to questions you might not even know you have yet
Pro tip: Start a pregnancy journal. Write down your feelings, hopes, and fears about birth. Many parents find that tracking emotions helps them feel more in control later.
Want to start your journey? Sign up for Welcome to Pregnancy
Class 2 – Childbirth Education Group (Little Lilacs)
Once you’re ready for more details, the Little Lilacs class is next. This is a one-day, 4-hour session where you’ll learn:
- How labor works and what your body is doing
- Comfort techniques: breathing, positions, massage
- How your partner can support you
- When to head to the birth center
Ever had a friend tell you “just go with the flow”? This class gives you the tools to go with the flow while still knowing what’s happening and what you want.
Why it’s different: You leave with clear strategies for staying comfortable and confident during labor. There’s also a follow-up call to answer questions and tweak your birth plan if needed.
Tip: Practice with your partner. Try breathing together or moving through positions at home. The more familiar you are, the easier it feels on the big day.
Curious? Check out Little Lilacs
Class 3 – Train for Birth Workshop
This class is a hands-on workshop for parents in their third trimester (34+ weeks). It’s where theory turns into practice.
Here’s what you’ll do:
- Try different labor positions: squatting, side-lying, hands-and-knees
- Practice breathing and relaxation techniques
- Rehearse partner support cues
- Plan your birth environment: music, lighting, props
Ever wondered if practice really matters? Parents who practice positions and comfort techniques beforehand often report smoother labors and feel more connected to their partner.
Tip: Make a small cue card with your top comfort measures. Keep it handy during labor so you don’t forget what works best for you.
Ready to get hands-on? Sign up for Train for Birth
Additional Classes & Support
After birth, there’s more to learn. BirthPointe offers:
- Breastfeeding classes
- Bringing Baby Home sessions
- Newborn care workshops
Why this matters: The first few weeks are a big adjustment. Learning how to feed, soothe, and care for your baby now can make those early days less stressful.
Tip: Bring your partner or support person to these classes. It’s easier when everyone knows the plan and how to help.
Want to learn more? See postpartum and newborn classes
Crafting Your Birth Plan
Your birth plan puts everything you learned into action. Here’s how to make it simple:
- List your preferences: Positions, comfort techniques, interventions you want to avoid
- Plan for flexibility: Things don’t always go perfectly, and that’s okay
- Share it: Make sure your midwife and support person know your plan
- Practice at home: Rehearse positions, breathing, and cues with your partner
Even if things change during labor, having a plan helps you feel calm and confident.
Tip: Visualize your birth environment. Think about lighting, music, and support people. Little details make a big difference.
Ready to start your plan? Use your notes from each class to make it personal and practical.
Elyse Basile “Traci and Teresa were very helpful for prenatal care and made sure I got the information I needed to prepare for birthing my son and making sure the baby was in the right position to deliver. Teresa did an excellent job helping me deliver. Both of them took good care of me postpartum as well.“
Quick Takeaways
- Start early: Welcome to Pregnancy sets the stage for a confident labor.
- Learn the details: Little Lilacs teaches comfort measures and partner roles.
- Practice matters: Train for Birth workshop gives hands-on skills.
- Postpartum matters too: Breastfeeding and newborn care classes help after birth.
- Make a flexible plan: Your birth plan keeps you calm and in control.
- Partner support is key: Practice together and communicate preferences.
- Stay comfortable and mobile: Upright positions and movement improve labor experience.
FAQs
Q1: When should I take classes?
Most parents start in the second or early third trimester. Early attendance gives you time to practice and feel ready.
Q2: Can my partner attend?
Yes. They learn comfort techniques and how to support you through labor.
Q3: What if I need more medical support?
Classes teach flexibility. You’ll know your options while keeping your natural birth goals in mind.
Q4: Are these classes only for first-time moms?
No. Any parent planning a natural birth can benefit.
Q5: How can I use class material during labor?
Use your practiced positions, breathing, and cues. Keep your birth plan handy and let your partner guide you.
Conclusion
Childbirth can feel intimidating, but the right classes make a huge difference. BirthPointe gives you a clear path from pregnancy basics to hands-on practice, all focused on natural birth.
Take it one class at a time. Build your confidence. Practice with your partner. And make a simple, flexible plan for labor.
When you feel ready, your labor day becomes less about worry and more about knowing you are prepared. Explore the classes, pick the ones that fit your stage, and start learning today.