The Best Places to Find Birthing Classes in St. Louis!

There always seems to be a moment for new parents where the excitement over that positive pregnancy test turns into a panicked thought of “Okay, but now what?!” Pregnancy is an absolutely thrilling train ride with the same destination, and it can be a little dizzying if you’re not prepared. Luckily, there are a few places around the city dedicated to making sure you have a thorough education so you can feel confident in your delivery. If you’re currently working on your birth plan, I’d love to tell you about three of the best places to find birthing classes in St. Louis. 

Feel Confident in Your Delivery With These Three Birthing Classes in St. Louis

Missouri Baptist Medical Center

Missouri Baptist Medical Center provides parents with a hands-on four-week course that goes over all your labor options. While the course is ideal for those choosing an unmedicated delivery, it has something informative for every parent. During your time, you’ll learn about the stages of labor, your anesthesia options, how to be a good support person, and what to expect during the postpartum stage. Wear comfortable clothing (skirts are not recommended!), grab your partner, and learn everything you need to know about labor. The center also has breastfeeding courses, infant care, and infant CPR.  

Washington University OBGYN

The Washington University OB-GYN department provides informative classes and tours, so you’re ready for the moment labor begins. The hospital provides both in-person and virtual courses. During your time, you learn all about the different stages of labor as well as how to prepare for your baby’s arrival. People choosing an unmedicated delivery will be able to sign up for natural birth classes. On top of these options, the center provides breastfeeding classes and newborn care. If you have children ages 3-8, make sure you sign them up for the sibling preparation class so they can have an easier time adjusting to life with a newborn. Most classes happen within the Women and Infants Center at the Central West End Barnes-Jewish location. 

Jamaa Birth Village

Jamaa Birth Village is a Black-owned midwife center in Ferguson that combines cultural practices with modern research to bring you a unique approach to labor. The center provides an 8-hour course dedicated to giving you a meaningful birth experience. You and your partner can attend to learn all about what to expect during childbirth, how to prepare for initial breastfeeding, and how to adjust to life with a newborn. While the center does charge for classes, they don’t turn away anybody who cannot pay. You can contact the center to learn more about their sliding scale. 

Birthing Classes St. Louis

Preparing for childbirth can be a little overwhelming, but I promise, there’s no need to panic! With these St. Louis birth classes, you’ll learn everything you need to know from some of the best experts in the city.

While you’re working on your birth plan, make sure you schedule some pictures! I’m a St. Louis family photographer, as well as a mom myself. I know from experience that this season flies by a little too quickly. I want to make sure you have gorgeous memories so you can hang onto them for years to come. If you’ve been thinking about booking a session for your newborn, then let’s chat! So you can decide if I’m the photographer for you. Contact me today to start the conversation!