No matter how many times you have given birth, but particularly for first-time parents, childbirth is a journey into the unknown. Childbirth preparation is designed to teach parents how to effectively cope with the childbirth experience through active participation, informed decision making, and non-invasive pain management/coping skills. This course is based on Lamaze International and Birthing From Within's fundamental principles and taught by Cindy Sauerwein, a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator.

Prepare for the biggest transformation of your life in a conscious,

intuitive and empowering way!

Course Offerings

Cindy Sauerwein offers a well-balanced, hospital-based curriculum for parents delivering at Anne Arundel Medical Center encompassing either two weekend days (One Wonderful Weekend) or one day (One Wonderful Day). You may register for these classes by calling AAMC 410-481-4000 and requesting a specific date, class, and instructor (Sauerwein). Enrollment is limited, first-come, first-served! Please call her for upcoming dates!

Additionally:

Private Childbirth Preparation Class $150.00/couple

Based on your needs and desires, I prepare a childbirth preparation series that addresses your particular birthing situation (i.e., hospital, birthing center, home birth, natural childbirth, etc.). I offer this as a five-hour, one day session or two 2.5 hour sessions during the week, week day or weekends in Edgewater, MD.

Sample Curriculum:

Part One: The Mechanics of Birth

During this segment, we discuss the more "physical" aspects of birth. After this section is completed, you should have a good understanding of how to make good choices in labor, signs and stages of labor, as well as possible medical interventions.

Introduction…Where are We Going Today?

How to Make Wise Decisions in Labor

Signs of Labor - Potential and Positive!

Stages of Labor – Introduction & Video

Medical Interventions – What you should know

Birth Plan Development

Celebrate Birth! Video

Part Two: Birth as a Reality!

During this segment, we will discuss the challenges of giving birth, discuss pain-relief options, and practice comfort measures for labor and birth. We watch a video that emphasizes various birthing positions for comfort.

In-Depth Practice: Comfort Measures for each stage of labor: Early Labor, Active Labor, Pushing Breathing for Relaxation

Gentle Touch/Massage, Positioning, Vocalizing as Tools

Positioning For Comfort Video

Part Three: Preparing for Birth Center, Hospital, or Home Birth

This segment will be custom-designed to meet your expectations whether you are choosing a hospital, birth center, or home birth.

Specific information, protocols, and standard procedures for your hospital will be discussed, your options for pain relief, as well as the pros and cons of epidural usage. We will also discuss unexpected complications and how to cope with them.

Part Four: Food For Thought

During Part Four, we discuss using doulas, creating a positive birth plan, and understanding your baby's position before labor.

Introducing the Doula Video

Birth Plan Development

Avoiding Back Labor. Know Your Baby's Position

Understanding Cervical Ripeness

And More!!!