Prenatal Classes

LiveWell is excited to announce the addition of Prenatal Classes to our list of services. The Ottawa Childbirth Education Association (OCEA) is now offering weekend classes at our centre. To register for a class or for more information please visit www.ottawacea.com or call 613-860-2061.

The OCEA recognizes birth as a normal and natural event in a woman's life. It is our goal to present options to expectant women and their partners to help them feel empowered to make choices that lead to a positive childbirth experience.

Our classes welcome women who have chosen midwifery care, obstetrical care or family practitioners and are planning to deliver their babies at any Ottawa or surrounding hospital or at home. Our clients are predominately first time parents, but we also provide education for second pregnancies, especially when planning a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC), or after great age gaps and with second partners

We suggest you take your prenatal classes between 20 weeks and 36 weeks. Be sure to register early in your pregnancy in order to ensure a place is reserved for you. Class size is limited to a maximum of 10 couples.

Our classes include the following information presented in a variety of methods including videos, hands on practice, small group discussion and relaxation exercises:  

• Your birth support team – The role of the Midwife, family Doctor, OB,  Registered Nurse and Doula  
• stages of labour
• comfort measures including relaxation and massage techniques
• breath awareness
• all options for pain relief
• making decisions and giving consent
• methods of induction
• interventions including 1V’s, fetal heart monitors, cesarean sections
• post birth procedures for babies
• post birth recovery for women
• resources in Ottawa
• breastfeeding

Our one day condensed classes are excellent for those who may not otherwise have time to take classes or work shift work. The focus of the one day class is on the role of your caregiver, stages of labour, options for pain management, interventions and breastfeeding. 
  
Cost of classes is $130 plus GST and includes telephone and email contact with your instructor, free parking and air conditioned rooms.