Hello everyone, an update on Birth Louisville offerings. Like all of you, I have been intently following reports of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and considering the many ways in which its future course might alter my life and the lives of my students and clients. On March 17th, I made the decision to move my classes from an in person format to a live virtual classroom via Zoom in accordance with CDC guidelines for social distancing. Six weeks into this pandemic, I have realized that expectant parents need community and connection now more than ever as they grieve so many losses. My March classes just wrapped up, and students told me that they found value and comfort in talking with other expectant parents every week about the challenges they are facing. If you’re feeling alone, or if you’re anxious about your upcoming birth–please join us. Information is power, and community support is priceless.

I will continue to provide birth education and support in the virtual classroom for as long as I can–I have no plans to cancel anything–the babies don’t know there’s a pandemic going on! I have received several questions about what Empowered Birth looks like in a virtual format, so I’ve created a FAQ that will hopefully answer your questions! Please use the Contact Me form if you have a question you don’t see addressed here.

Is this a recorded class or is it live?

This is a live class. We meet at the same time every week, just as we would in an in person setting. I send out a Zoom link about a week before our first class and that link serves as weekly access.

What does a typical class look like?

In Class 2: Coping With Pain, we learn about pain theories and comfort measures during each stage of labor. We start with a survey–mom thinks about a time when she’s been in pain, and checks off boxes for all of the things that have worked for her. We then talk about how the pain of labor is different than that of an appendix rupturing, or a headache. I share some slides about pain theories and demonstrate counter pressure and touch relaxation techniques (massage, effleurage and stroking). Parents practice these techniques after my demo. Several parents have commented that it’s valuable to learn comfort measures in the very place where they’ll spend part of their labor–in their homes! We watch a video on vocalization, and then talk about which comfort measures moms often turn to during each stage of labor. We finish up with labor positions practice–I show positions on my screen and moms & partners try them out to see which positions feel “open.” Before we know it, class time is over!

Are there materials I need to participate? How do I access those?

Yes, I will put a packet in the mail to you before class begins. This packet includes handouts, cards for games and activities during class, photos for “grab bag” activities and so on. Some websites and resources will be emailed to you.

I can’t make any of the class dates, is there another option?

Yes, we can get you set up with a private class. Please send an inquiry through the Contact Me page and we can talk about the details.

I’d love to join but I don’t live anywhere near you–is that okay?

Of course! If you’re expecting a baby and you have access to a phone or computer–you’re in!

I lost my job recently due to COVID-19 and funds are tight. Can you work with me on the class fee?

Absolutely. Just send me a note–use the Contact Me form on the website. I don’t need your tax returns or paystubs or anything like that. Just let me know what’s going on and how I can help. I understand that times are hard for so many right now and I don’t want money to keep anyone from having access to information that they need.

I hope that helps you to envision what birth class looks like online–join us in the comfort of your own home–on your couch, during your dinner, in your pajamas–it’s your call. Hope to see you in class!