GET READY BABY
Calgary-Area Childbirth Preparation with a Childbirth Educator
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WHAT OUR CLIENTS HAVE TO SAY
Birth Stories
Jane & James, Calgary, AB-- Our Home Birth
This was our first baby and we were planning to have a Midwife supported home birth. We knew very little about childbirth and even less about home births. And on the big day we had our amazing home birth. It was an empowering personal experience. We had family there with us and our Midwife came at just the right moment.
Labour is not easy but when you are prepared it helps you strive for your goals!
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We are both so thrilled we did our Lamaze classes with Sylvia before our big day. Our sessions were relaxed, open to discussion, interactive, and very informative. Our questions about labour were answered very well, and Sylvia made sure we had plenty of supplementary materials to take home.
We’d recommend these classes for anyone who would like to have more confidence in preparing for their baby. We are so thankful we were able to attend. Thank you Sylvia!
Ceci & Liam, Kingston, ON-- Our Home Birth
Online Class Review. Without Sylvia's class I would not have had the amazing birth experience that I had. I highly recommend this course to every first time mom and dad- it changed everything for us! Sylvia's classes gave me and my husband the vocabulary to understand birth which lent itself to an incredibly supportive birth environment. The scientifically informed classes empowered me to become deeply confident in my body and the process of birth.
My interest in home-births was piqued and Sylvia offered extra resources so I could research on my own and with my Midwife. Given lockdown conditions, we ended up giving birth in a birth pool set up in our living room. It was a beautiful experience shared between the midwives, my husband and my mom, and for that we have Sylvia to thank.
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There is so much to know about birth, and I am grateful that none of it was a surprise on the day! Because Sylvia helped me understand my options, I felt that no matter where the experience ended up (at home, hospital, as a C-section-whatever!), I could handle myself, and make the best decision for me and my baby in that moment.
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Sylvia's cheerful, non-judgmental, and kind demeanor will set you at ease - I cannot express how beneficial this class is!​
Erica and Kieran, Calgary, AB-- Free-Standing Birth Centre Birth
Soon after my daughter was born my midwife exclaimed: "You must have taken an amazing birth class!" She saw the many strategies Sylvia had taught us in action and how they improved my ability to cope with labour. The hands on approach to the class with ample opportunities to practice, made me confident in my ability to deal with whatever the circumstances demanded. The class was engaging as well, with many creative games and opportunities to discuss what we had learned. Sylvia consistently modified the class to meet our needs. When I mentioned considering a water birth she not only explained the process but also provided articles she thought I would find helpful. My husband and I are sure that Sylvia provided everything necessary for our success. I didn't realize going into it how invaluable the class would be for the birth and early days of parenthood.
Bianca and Beauman, Calgary, AB
Sylvia is a very knowledgeable instructor who is invested in and truly cares about the well being of her students. The techniques I learned through the classes were extremely helpful and effective in managing labour. The breastfeeding portion of the class was also extremely helpful and I don't think my breastfeeding journey would have gone as smoothly as it did if it weren't for what I learned. Even after the birth of my daughter, Sylvia continues to be an amazing resource, support, and friend!
Taylor and Tom, Calgary, AB
Taking classes with Sylvia was one of the absolute best decisions we made when planning for our first born. Sylvia's classes taught both of us so much, making sure we were educated and prepared for the arrival of our baby. Sylvia really went above and beyond to ensure we were informed, and well cared for. We would without any hesitation, highly recommend Sylvia to any first time parents.
Heidy and Chris, Calgary, AB
My husband and I took Sylvia's course and we really loved it! She knows what she is talking about. We felt super ready when talking to doctors when giving birth at the hospital. She prepares you for the many routes birth can go, because of this I felt less nervous and more confident when giving birth. With the vulnerability that comes when giving birth, my husband was super grateful for her course because he was able to help me. She teaches you techniques, "hands on", to both partners, on coping with labour pain. I would recommend her to everyone. She was always well prepared and it was worth every penny and every minute taking the course with her.
Risa and Justin, Calgary, AB-- My VBAC Story
My first delivery, despite bringing my sweet firstborn into the world, left me feeling incredibly broken after an emergency c section. As I approached meeting my second child, an OB advised that I should schedule another c section since my chances for a VBAC were much lower than average.
I did not want another major surgery and I knew that I needed more support and more information. I needed to learn how to work with my body during labour and what techniques I could use to try for a VBAC.
I didn’t know how to articulate my pain but Sylvia immediately understood my deep yearning to try for a VBAC. She was a gentle listener and an affirming teacher as we unpacked where we lost control and lacked information. The classes also helped my husband understand my experience better and how to be a true partner in the labour process to me, rather than a bystander. Sylvia walked with us rather than talking at us and it made a world of a difference for us.
I encourage every mom to try for a VBAC because our bodies are incredible and we were created for it! I felt so much peace (and quiet triumph!) holding my newborn, knowing that we had done this together - without any unnecessary medical intervention. We did it! We are all capable and deserve to be supported how we choose to bring our babies to the world.
Ceci and Liam, Kingston, ON--The Birth of My Second Child
Sylvia taught us her basic Get Ready Baby course for our first child with wonderful results. When it came to our second child, we were told we needed an early C-section at 35 or 36 weeks due to complications. After already having a natural, unmedicated birth with my first child, I was terrified of this new and highly medicalized environment.
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My husband and I immediately went to Sylvia who thoughtfully prepared us for what to expect from our situation. Surprisingly, as our circumstances changed and we were allowed to carry the pregnancy further, I felt so equipped with the knowledge Sylvia had given me.
Suddenly, I was strongly advised to undergo an induction. In the midst of fear for our baby, I was able to advocate for myself and my child and confidently accept the induction. Sylvia equipped us with precise information that boosted my confidence and allowed me to birth my baby without any fear-- her classes are EMPOWERING.
I was able to birth my baby naturally in spite of a Pitocin induced labour. I am so grateful for Sylvia, she truly is the friend every first time (or second, third or maybe even fourth time) mom needs to have in her corner. If you are hesitating to call her DON'T. This might be the best decision you ever make for yourself and your child.​
Brigid and Matt, Lake Chestermere, AB
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We are so grateful for Sylvia and the knowledge we gained from her birth class. My husband and I took this class after hearing about it from many other couples who highly recommended it. We are so glad we did.
We did not know what to expect with the labour as this was our first child. Sylvia's class taught us how to encourage smooth labour, positions and techniques. Her class covered pre-labour, active labour, postpartum, breastfeeding etc. We felt prepared and excited for the birth.
Our sweet daughter was born after a long, beautiful labour. Thanks to Sylvia's class, we knew what to expect and how to cope with the long labour. It was especially helpful for my husband so he knew how to support me.
Sylvia is knowledgeable and thoughtful about the content of her class. She covered so much and gave us resources on all topics. We highly recommend Sylvia's class!
Dominique and Christopher, Calgary, AB
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Preparing for the birth of our second child with Sylvia was an incredible experience. We were unprepared for our first labour, so when it came time to deliver we faced many unexpected challenges. This time around, we met with Sylvia to try for a VBAC. Unfortunately, due to a set of extremely rare circumstances, the second labour ended with an emergency C-section.
Despite this outcome, Sylvia’s course helped us feel more at peace going into the labour, more connected as spouses during the labour, and more acceptant of how it all went. Thanks to Sylvia's training, we were calmer, more prepared, and had the tools to handle each situation. In this way, we were able to make the best decisions we could for our second baby. We highly recommend Sylvia's training to all our friends, so they can have the peace of mind that comes with being well-prepared for their delivery
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Sarah and Christopher, Calgary, AB
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When my husband and I started looking into birthing classes for our first baby, Sylvia came very highly recommended. We appreciated the level of detail and dedicated time offered in her course as we prepared for our planned hospital birth. Thanks to Sylvia we felt armed with the tools to cope with early labour at home and navigate later stages of labour and delivery in hospital. When I ended up stalling a number of times during labour, we knew how to ask for information and advocate for our needs in a hospital setting. This knowledge supported us in achieving the delivery we hoped for and we received many compliments from the doctors and nurses about our level of information and teamwork--both of which came from attending Sylvia's classes. As a result, we recommend Sylvia and her classes to our friends who are looking for excellent resources and a caring instructor!
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LEARNING OPTIONS
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7-week Series, In-Person Private Classes
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Get Ready Baby classes are for all moms whether they deliver at home, with a midwife or at one of our many hospitals.
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There are a growing number of moms electing to have their baby delivered at a free-standing Birth Centre or electing to have a Home Birth along with the care of their Midwives.
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Private Childbirth Classes are designed to provide a personal touch to help moms and their support person/s to learn the unique skills Moms need when preparing for any type of birth, including home births and at a Birth Centre.
4-weeks of Childbirth Preparation
1-week Post Partum class
1-week Breastfeeding class
1-week, "I'm a parent!"- Infant Care
Plus an optional "Hands- On" Baby Care Class, Week 8,
included in price of class​
Flexible scheduling, day-time and evenings​
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7-Week In-Person Group Classes (Max. 3 couples)
Get Ready Baby classes are for all moms whether they deliver at home, with a midwife or at one of our many hospitals.
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Get Ready Baby Offers a 7-Week Series of classes to prepare for childbirth and the first weeks of parenting:
4-weeks of Childbirth Preparation
1-week Post Partum class
1-week Breastfeeding class
1-week, "I'm a parent!"- Infant Care ( optional- included in price of class)
Plus an Optional "Hands- On" Baby Care Class, Week 8,
included in price of class
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SPECIALTY PRIVATE CLASS OPTIONS
EARLY PREGNANCY CLASSES
Childbirth education classes are taken in your third trimester. But you have two trimesters before that, we know that early prenatal education will prepare you for a healthy pregnancy. A low stress, healthy, active pregnancy leads to a safer birth.
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If you are interested in taking my birth prep classes later on around week 27 to 30, this early pregnancy class will be covered in that cost.
However, this class can be taken on its own without any need to commit to future classes!
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"I am pregnant! Now what?" - An Early Pregnancy Class is available to couples who want to know what to expect in the months to come.
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Conversations focus on topics which cover your general health both physical and emotional as they pertain to pregnancy. Coping with morning sickness. Learning about good nutrition for a healthy pregnancy. Learning about daily exercise and a healthy pregnancy. And how exercise can help prepare your body for child birth.
Early Pregnancy classes are available as a private class. The class can be taken anywhere from when you find out your are pregnant,
up to 16 weeks.
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A NEGATIVE, PAST BIRTH EXPERIENCE
"My last birth experience was very difficult and I felt I had no control, can I have a better experience with my next baby?"
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Private Classes are offered to moms who have had a negative birth experience in the past and want to learn new skills, with the goal of improving their birth experience with her next baby.
You will learn more about informed consent, birth planning, and a focus on how you can learn great skills to have a positive and more joyful outcome for your next labour.
TOLAC/VBAC
Talk to your doctor or midwife about the possibility of a Vaginal Birth after a
C-section.
Did you know that, "provided there are no contraindications, mothers who have had 1 C-section, with a transverse low- segment incision in her uterus can do a trial of labour after a C-section", also called a TOLAC?
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Did you know that" 70% - 75% of women who have a TOLAC will have a successful Vaginal Birth after a C-section", also called a VBAC?
(Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologist of Canada, Nicette Jukelevics MA,ICCE)
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The class will focus on benefits and risks so you can make an informed decision for a TOLAC/VBAC
It is important to develop good labour skills as you prepare for a TOLAC/VBAC with a focus on physiological labour, non-medicated labour
Also, it is important for mothers and fathers to work through the emotional aspects of a previous unplanned C-section.
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Some moms may have had a planned C-section because of a baby being in an unfavorable position, such as breech, but with this pregnancy your baby is in the perfect position...you may be able to have a vaginal delivery this time!
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We will talk about building a strong support network with your doctor, midwife and doula to give you the best chance for success!
Lessons are custom designed to meet your specific need
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3-DAY WEEKEND INTENSIVE CLASSES​
Weekend Intensive Classes are available and can meet the needs of some moms or couples who have irregular work hours, live just outside of Calgary and would find a shorter class more convenient or have spouses that work out of town and have little time to attend birth classes.
The classes are run over a Friday evening, all day Saturday and a four hour class on Sunday. These classes are condensed and there is much to learn over a very short time frame! It is not the most ideal setting to learn due to the intensity, but it does allow some couples to get the education they desire.
Topics covered: Labour and Delivery, Positioning and Massages, Relaxation and Breathing. A brief overview of Medical Procedures/ Inductions etc. offered in Calgary hospitals. Postpartum, both physical care and emotional transitions after birth.
These classes may be a private or group class, depending on demand.
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"MY LAST PREGNANCY WAS 7 YEARS AGO...I need some help to get ready for this baby!"
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Another focus for private classes can be a Mom who gave birth years ago, who is expecting again and who would like to have a refresher to understand what to expect now, and new options for her birth experience. Lessons are custom designed.
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"Women are empowered when they receive sensitive, respectful care."
Lamaze
WHAT WILL I LEARN AT GET READY BABY?
MOTHER & BABY-CENTRED CHILDBIRTH
WHAT IS THE LAMAZE APPROACH? SAFE AND HEALTY BIRTH: SIX SIMPLE STEPS
INFORMED CONSENT, REFUSAL & COMMUNICATION
SYMPTOMS OF LATE PREGNANCY
HOW MY BABY IS CONNECTED TO ME
“PAIN WITH A PURPOSE”: GETTING FROM FEAR TO HOPE & COURAGE
HOW WE CAN ENHANCE RELAXATION
PREPARING MOM AND DAD TO WORK AS A TEAM FOR LABOUR
STAGES OF LABOUR AND THE HARMONY OF BIRTHING
HORMONES
COMFORT MEASURES AND TECHNIQUES
HOW TO USE A REBOZO
COMMON MEDICAL PROCEDURES USED IN CALGARY HOSPITALS
STRATEGIES TO “GO THE FULL 40″™ AND BEYOND! HOW TO PLAN FOR A LATE BABY. NAVIGATING INDUCTIONS
POST-PARTUM: BABY IS HERE, MOM NEEDS TO RECOVER
PHYSICAL & EMOTIONAL CARE FOR MOM & FAMILY
BREASTFEEDING 101
LEARNING INFANT CUES
HOW TO SOOTHE YOUR BABY
LABOUR PRACTICE FOR NATURAL LABOUR AND MEDICATED LABOUR
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CLASSES
Please contact Sylvia for dates and class availability
Teaching locations are in NW Calgary
Text Sylvia at 403.618.4095 for a consultation
Or, email to sylvia.mealey@getreadybaby.ca for a consultation
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHEN IS A GOOD TIME TO TAKE CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASSES?
A good time to come to class is when Mom is in her 27th to 30th week. This allows time to take the 7-week Childbirth Classes
WHO CAN I BRING TO CLASS WITH ME?
It is important to bring your Birth Partner with you — whether that's your spouse, partner, parent or friend!
HOW ARE THE CLASSES SET UP?
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All classes come with a detailed, image-centered handbook which allows you to review and practice hands-on activities at home.
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Plumtree Birth and Breastfeeding booklets are included with each class
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The classes are interactive, using many tools:
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We play games, use many visuals, PowerPoint slides to reinforce learning, watch videos, listen to music, practice massages and labour positions and more!
WHY ARE GROUP CLASSES LIMITED TO 3 COUPLES?
I keep my group classes limited to 3 couples so that I can meet your specific needs. Each mom comes to the class with a different goal for her birthing plans. The need to custom fit classes around individual's specific needs can be done more effectively in a smaller classroom setting
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Yes. Private classes are very popular. A private class can make the experience very personal
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Private classes are focused on mom and dad or other support person
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Private classes are great if you are interested in a home birth or Free-Standing Birth Centre
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Private classes for moms who would like to have a trial vaginal labour after a C-section-TOLAC/VBAC
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Mom had her first baby many years ago and wants a refresher
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Mom and dad had a poor birthing experience during a previous labour and would like to learn skills to be prepared for a better, more positive, birth experience this time.
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Classes are tailored around your specific needs
CAN WE HAVE PRIVATE CLASSES?
I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE A HOME BIRTH. IS IT POSSIBLE?
It is safe to deliver your baby at home if you have a low risk, uncomplicated pregnancy.
You will need to make plans through a Midwifery Clinic in your location. (Whatever city or region you live in).
I have taught moms who have had successful, joyous, home deliveries, even as first-time moms.
This is not my first baby but, I want a home birth this time. Can you help?
Yes, if this is your first home birth and you want to learn more about how to enhance good labour then please contact me. We can talk about your needs and come up with a class that will specifically meet your needs to plan for a successful home birth!
WHAT ARE THE C-SECTION RATES IN ALBERTA?
"The C-section rate in Alberta is at 1 in 3 mothers."- Alberta Health, 2020
There are many reasons for having a C-section and it is a life saving surgery for many moms and babies!
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However, it is important to try and avoid a C-section if you have a low risk pregnancy and labour, if there are no medical reasons for a C-section.
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A C-section is a major abdominal surgery which can lead to complications in post partum, and with breastfeeding and in future pregnancies. Repeated C-sections come with increasing risks- especially if you want a large family.
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One of the best reasons to take a good childbirth prep class is to develop the much needed skills to help avoid a C-section. There are a lot of things you and your spouse can do to help avoid a C-section. A thorough understanding of informed consent is vital.
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Learning how to cope with labour for as long as possible without medical interventions is going to help decrease your risks. Having a partner who knows how to help you through labour and be a vital part of your support, physical comfort, and advocacy is very important. Mobility throughout labour in upright positions will also help promote a healthy labour and delivery.
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But if you don't know what to do you may be unable to make good choices!​
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WHAT IS A DOULA, WHAT DOES SHE DO?
Also, consider a Doula for your birth.
"A Doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to their client before, during and shortly after childbirth to help them achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible." - DONA International
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"Research shows that people who use a birth doula are:
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less likely to need Pitocin, Artificial labour hormone
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less likely to have a cesarean birth
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less likely to use any pain medication
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more likely to rate their childbirth experience positively"
- DONA International​​
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CONSIDER BUDGETING FOR A BREASTFEEDING COUNSELOR OR LACTATION CONSULTANT
Breastfeeding is the best for baby and the most natural experience for mom and baby
But, learning how to breastfeed can be a challenge for mom and baby. Moms and babies need to learn to breastfeed as a team
Except for some exceptions most mothers can have very successful breastfeeding experiences
However, if problems which come up in the first days and weeks are not dealt with, your breastfeeding can be put at risk
Persistence is vital and proper support is essential!!
Don't wait for a crisis, reach out for help
We focus on breastfeeding in my classes because it helps build a strong base which helps mom get started with breastfeeding.
And helps our moms to recognize when there may be a problem
There are breastfeeding clinics in Calgary and private Lactation Consultants
Mother's support: La Leche League Calgary
YOU MAY HAVE HAD ONE OR MORE PREGNANCIES THAT WERE UNCOMPLICATED BUT NOW YOU ARE FACING A DIFFICULT PREGNANCY WITH A POTENTIAL DIFFICULT BIRTH. WHETHER THAT IS ANTICIPATING AN INDUCTION OR A C-SECTION,
OR UNCERTAINTY ABOUT YOUR BABY'S HEALTH
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It is so important that an expectant mother experiences the least amount of stress, and avoids frequent surges of fear driven adrenalin, during pregnancy. Both for the health of the mother and her baby.
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Childbirth classes with the goal to prepare you physically, mentally and spiritually for this pregnancy, can help moms find the peace and hope they need to face this uncertain time.
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Childbirth classes can provide a space where you feel safe, where you can talk about your concerns; throughout your pregnancy and as you prepare for the difficult birth.
Classes can help mothers and their spouses to face an uncertain time, with courage and confidence. Anytime from early pregnancy all the way to planning your upcoming labour and delivery.
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You are having a complicated pregnancy but you can still have a Birth Plan. You can work in tandem with the medical team and experience some independence. A "gentle C-section", having your spouse stay with your baby, even if your baby needs to go to NICU, freedom of movement during an induction and so on...these are just some ways you can still feel in control even if things are complicated.
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MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR
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SYLVIA MEALEY CBE
My passion is to help Moms and their families gain the skills they need for a positive birth experience.
As a Lamaze-educated Childbirth Instructor, retired nurse, and mother of three, I’m committed to quality childbirth education.
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My conviction is that pregnancy is a normal, natural--and monumental--life event.
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Every time I teach a new class I see the life-changing, empowering effects!
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