“The human species is no more unsuited to give birth than any other of the 5,000 or so species of mammals on the planet. We are merely the most confused.”

-Ina May Gaskin

Join a group class in your community, or opt for private prenatal education sessions to round out your care. Either way, these opportunities add tried-and-true tips and tricks to your toolkit, covering topics ranging from maintaining optimal health throughout pregnancy, to offering comfort measures during labor. You will come away with a deeper understanding of the physiologic stages and phases of labor and birth, and a greater sense of preparedness for the arrival of a new family member.

Childbirth Education

  • Optimizing Well-being in Pregnancy: In this class we’ll discuss options for care during the childbearing year and how to assemble a great team. We’ll learn about fetal development and physical changes during pregnancy. We’ll take a look at common testing during pregnancy, and learn how to ease some common discomforts that come along with the territory.

    Getting Ready for Baby: This class about newborn care is an opportunity to learn about and explore options as you prepare to make decisions for your baby. We’ll cover topics like common newborn medications, testing, and procedures at birth, as well as some basics about caring for your infant in the fourth trimester. From the first “Golden Hour” to an overview of what to expect throughout the first tender weeks of life.

    Preparing for Labor: In this class we’ll cover everything from recognizing the beginning of labor to what to anticipate during various stages and phases of labor and birth. We’ll cover some common interventions because, no matter what kind of birth you’re hoping to have, it’s good to be informed about your options and the medical aspects of birth that you may encounter.

    Comfort Measures in Labor and Birth:
    Explore the physiologic birth process. We’ll learn some easy, natural methods for coping with the intensity of labor, and tips and tricks to prepare for birth in any kind of setting or model of care. No matter what kind of birth you’re planning - whether with or without medication, in a hospital or at home, it will be YOU who works hard to bring your baby into the world. This class is designed to support you in meeting that moment with strength and courage.

    What to Expect During the Fourth Trimester: Prepare ahead of time to smooth the big transition into parenthood. Learn self-care and healing practices specific to the postpartum period, and some basics about the care of your newborn as they adjust to life outside the womb. We’ll discuss hormonal changes and emotional health, the new shape of sleep, and physical wellness after birthing.

    The Learned Art of Infant Feeding: Breast/chestfeeding can be a lovely bonding experience for both the nursing parent and the baby. It can also come with a lot of questions and concerns. In this class we’ll go into depth about the anatomy of a good latch, what’s behind the process of making milk, how to ensure your supply is adequate, and answer common concerns, like: how will I know if my baby is getting enough to eat? We’ll talk about breast and nipple care and comfort, and tips and tricks for ensuring greater success.

    Origin Storytime: After your baby is born, gather in a circle with other new parents who are at a similar place on the path. Share your birth story with Origin Story class alumni and hear about theirs. This event is free, and provides an opportunity for families to reconnect on the other side and build community in the greater Fairbanks area.

  • Please reach out to schedule private sessions, or to sign up for group classes.

  • In addition to group classes, private sessions are offered to round out your care during pregnancy.

    Private prenatal education offers an opportunity for deeper exploration and ample time to discuss whatever is happening in your own unique pregnancy. This can be a wonderful way to broaden horizons with regard to the many options and choices you will face, as well as helping to build a strong connection to your body and baby at a time when everything is changing so fast.

    Perhaps after visits with your OB GYN you’re left with questions and more of a need to process information than the short appointment time allowed. Having some private sessions gives you the chance to talk through any concerns, get your questions answered thoroughly, and ponder your options more thoughtfully.

    These enriching sessions can help ease concerns with information individually tailored to your unique circumstances.

    Becoming a more empowered parent starts by understanding your options. It’s important to feel seen and heard during these most vulnerable months of your life.

    Take advantage of a 15 minute free, no-obligation phone consultation if you’d like to see if working together feels like a good match before signing up.

  • Group classes: $60 per couple, per class

    Group classes are each 2 hours long, and offer a chance to build community connections.

    Private Prenatal Education: $105 per couple, per ninety-minute session
    Includes travel to your home.