"Through soul-searching and listening more deeply to the women I was working with, I finally understood that women have to prepare for birth in their heart and soul, not their head. And that giving birth is something a woman does in her body, not in her head."   ~ Pam England

Modern mothers already have lots of information ABOUT birth from reading books and online articles, and only a few are taking a traditional childbirth class, and yet they don't necessarily feel more prepared, and perhaps are even more tense about what awaits.   Birthing From Within childbirth preparation classes recognize the need for more, including an initiation into what it's like to be IN labor, and an expansion of one's expectations, while building confidence in one's ability to cope with pain and the unknown. 

BIRTHING FROM WITHIN® is not an outcome-focused approach. Parents will have a safe space to explore a variety of options in class and will receive support for whatever options are right for them.  Some of the practical topics explored in class include: understanding labor psychology and physiology (and how they are related), positive communication with healthcare providers, how to "lose it" in labor, how to know what to do when you don't know what to do, and helpful labor positions and comfort measures.

The classes also support your preparation for parenting. About 1/3 of each class is devoted to innovative pain coping practices, to help parents fully participate in birth's rite of passage.   Included is a section on the wise and compassionate use of drugs. 

With advanced training from Pam England, I mentor (teach) classes from four perspectives: Mother, Father, Baby and Culture. Classes are designed to meet your needs, so bring to class whatever is on your mind. Every class includes a pain coping practice, an interactive activity, and lively discussion.  Some parents choose to participate more quietly, and that is fine, too.

	Classes are a special time to unwind from the busy-ness of life, connect with your baby, AND an opportunity for community with others on a similar journey.  Bring to class: an open mind, a loving heart and a willingness to be your own teacher. Prepare to bring to your birth: Great Doubt, Great Love, Great Faith & Great Determination.

UPCOMING CLASS OFFERINGS: 

Classes are held in a comfortable setting with small class sizes.  Register now for best availability in the class of your choice:

June 2009 (15 hours total) meeting Saturday June 6th morning and afternoon, Thursday evenings June 11 & 18, and Saturday June 27 afternoon and evening (at a wellness center in Vancouver, near I-205 and Mill Plain (7 minutes from PDX airport)

July 2009 - Schedule TBA, please contact me soon to coordinate a schedule that fits your needs!

Aug/Sept 2009 - Class now forming to meet in S.E. Portland for 12 total hours.  Please contact me for more information and to register.

Registration can be done by mail and/or through PayPal, for your convenience.  A deposit of $100 holds your space in class  (reduced tuition plans may be negotiated).   The registration form is available at the bottom of this page. 

Birthing Again (Next series: Dates TBA, please inquire)

For parents who have traveled through LaborLand before, and perhaps wishing things had gone differently the last time (sounds familiar?).  This class is open to experienced parents, whether or not they have previously taken a Birthing From Within class.  This class is 9 hours total, rather than the 15 hours of my regular BFW series.  In this class, parents build confidence while reviewing pain-coping practices that worked and learning some new ones.  There are opportunities to explore your birth story in new ways and strengthen your relationship as a couple.  Topics also include sibling preparation and mother rejuvenation. 

Private Classes  Scheduled and focused to meet your personal needs!   Please inquire for more information.  Great option for those outside the Portland/Vancouver metro area, on bedrest, irregular work schedules or older children wanting to participate for some sessions.

Birth Story Workshop (Next date: Sunday, May 17th 10am - 1pm)

This workshop is for women who want to explore a past birth experience.  The birth need not be recent to participate.  Pregnant women who are resolving a past birth yet ready to move forward to the next one are especially encouraged to attend.  We will use Birthing From Within tools to promote self-awareness, stimulate healing and celebrate ourselves as women who have given birth.  Please inquire for the date of the next workshop or to arrange a private session.

For more information on this Extra-Ordinary approach to childbirth preparation and Pam England's Birth Art Gallery, please visit: www.birthingfromwithin.com

Check with your health care administrator, as childbirth classes (including Birthing From Within) may qualify for flex account reimbursement.

Click Here to Register