Seminar Discussions
and Childbirth Technique Classes
TOPICS
Local Birth Alternatives
The Birth Group and its philosophy are introduced, followed by a discussion of the birth options available in Tompkins County and surrounding areas. The common procedures and interventions to expect from each option is explored. Leaders assist members in writing their birth plans, if desired.
Your Baby, Your Way
The Ithaca Birth Group offers a three-week childbirth preparation class which uses a cafeteria approach for useful techniques for coping with labor and delivery. Not one approach, but many tools are taught. With an emphasis on the normalcy of childbirth, techniques can be chosen to suit the individual needs of the birthing woman, including breathing, relaxation, imagery, vocalization and others. We encourage women to make choices appropriate for their own needs, thus: "Your Baby, Your Way"!
Nutrition in Pregnancy and Lactation
Workshop is lead by a trained professional on the dietary requirements for pregnancy and lactation. Individual eating habits are logged and reviewed in a supportive, informative manner.
Emotional and Physical Changes During Pregnancy
Members share the "ups and downs" of pregnancy and discuss the universal nature of their experiences. Exercises to ease physical discomfort are demonstrated. Normal physical, emotional and spiritual changes are demystified.
Birthing Normally: Cesarean Prevention
Led by a local midwife, this discussion outlines what to expect in labor and delivery. The emphasis is on the normal physiological and psychological process of birth and what each individual woman can do to optimize a safe, healthy delivery.
Post Partum and Bonding
The process of "falling in love" with your baby is explored. We also discuss the post partum adjustments of parents and family, as well as newborn testing, jaundice, circumcision, and immunizations.
Successful Breastfeeding
Community resources of Certified Lactation Consultants and La Leche League leaders discuss breastfeeding techniques and how to overcome common difficulties Most Birth Group members choose to breast feed. Leaders encourage partners to support breastfeeding mothers, and suggest alternative care giving roles.
Parenting
We discuss how we, ourselves, were parented and what we would like to do the same or differently with our children. Common questions about baby supplies, car seats, and so forth, are answered. Occasionally partners have an opportunity to meet separately to discuss the impact of this important life transition. |
Evening seminar discussions use the following format:
Birth story
A mother from a previous class cycle comes, usually with her partner and baby. They describe their birth experience and answer questions.
Birth Topics
One of the Birth Group leaders or experts from the community leads a discussion of the relevant topic. The topics covered are listed below.
Birth Video
Professionally produced videos of actual births are shown and discussed.
All interested women, along with their families and friends are welcomed; it is not necessary to attend each week. Most Ithaca Birth Group meetings arc held at 105 E. Marshall St., Ithaca. Lifetime Voluntary membership in the Ithaca Birth Group is $25.00.
CONTACT ITHACA BIRTH GROUP
Gail Birnbaum, RN, CPM, CLC.
Registered Nurse, Certified Professional Midwife, Certified Lactation Consultant
277-3455, gail@lightlink.com
Jennifer Gray
387-6694 (evenings), jgray@htva.net |
