Great Expectations offers private childbirth classes throughout Dallas, Ft. Worth and Denton (and all those suburbs in between!). Many expecting families love the idea of having childbirth class in their own home where they can be comfortable and discuss the issues of pregnancy and birth in a private manner – all while getting their specific concerns addressed. However, private classes are perhaps the service that I get the most questions about because it seems that some people find the idea of private classes to be intimidating, expensive or just confusing. Since private classes are such a great option for families, I want to address a few of the questions I frequently answer for people on the topic. Once they hear the answers, most people are thrilled to sign up!
Who is a good candidate for private classes?
Anyone who is expecting a baby….and who is delivering that baby at any location. Private classes are good for busy families with limited time, those on bed rest or those that have unique situations. I enjoy being around people and as an expectant woman I enjoyed hanging out with other women who were also sporting a belly, but many men and women prefer to skip the group dynamics (and group games) to enjoy the one on one learning that private classes offer. We also teach classes to women who are expecting their child via gestational surrogate or adoption which is often easier in a home setting.
What will we learn in a private class?
Everything you want to learn. When you book a class, one of our childbirth educators will get in touch with you to discuss your birth plans and what you want to get out of a class. You will be able to ask her what she recommends and decide how many sessions to plan. Private childbirth classes can prepare you for birth in the hospital, in a birth center or for a homebirth. If you need something specific like a class on Cesarean birth, or VBACs we can make that happen along with the general childbirth classes that you might expect like Breastfeeding, Childbirth Basics, Refresher, Comfort Measures etc.
When Should I Sign Up for a Private Class?
We recommend taking any childbirth education in the last trimester so from 30 weeks on. The best time to set that up and book an educator will be toward the end of your 2nd trimester. No fear though if you have put this off, our instructors can fit you in last minute or do something sooner if your circumstances are such that earlier or later is the best fit for you.
Are Private Childbirth classes crazy expensive?
No. You can have a private class for as little as $75. Obviously the more sessions you need, the price will go up, but the average family books 2 sessions of class and thus the total cost is $150. That’s not much more than you will pay for many hospital classes and the quality will be higher and the class will be completely customized to your needs.
Who teaches the classes?
We have 3 childbirth instructors on our team. They are certified and experienced and they are amazing at helping you prepare for your birth. All of the instructors are also doulas so they have likely helped women give birth where you will be and can help guide you in that regard from their experience. Furthermore, you may also choose your instructor to be your doula. (though you do not have to!)
Do you have other questions? Give us a shout, I never mind answering questions and helping families discover the best options for welcoming their little one. If you want more specific info about pricing feel free to check out our website or contact us to let us know how we can help!
***
Maria Pokluda has been a doula serving expecting families in Dallas / Ft. Worth since 2007 and has helped hundreds of families have happy birth days. Maria was voted “Best Doula” by DFW Child the past three years and has a special passion for helping couples achieve VBACs. You can find information about Maria’s services at greatexpectationsbirth.com