​Prepared Childbirth Class

Our Prepared Childbirth Class is designed to assist our parents-to-be in the journey through pregnancy and birth. Information on pregnancy changes, both physical and emotional, options for labor and delivery, and aftercare for mom, coach, and baby are included. Participation of both partners is encouraged and helps make this class beneficial and meaningful. Family-centered care is the focus throughout the class.

All participants are automatically enrolled in our Special Delivery Program and are able to take full advantage of its benefits.

Participants are encouraged to register before the fifth month of pregnancy and attendance is limited to those delivering at Memorial. There is a $15 per couple fee. Visit our Events Calendar or call (618) 257-4826 for class dates.

The Childbirth Refresher class is designed to give experienced parents updated information about the latest trends in labor, delivery, and newborn care.

This class is limited to those delivering at Memorial; please call (618) 257-5853 to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced Labor Nurses.

Breastfeeding provides your baby with a strong nutritional start and helps with emotional development. Breast milk is an easily digested, perfectly matched nutrition source filled with antibodies that protect against infection. Breastfeeding also promotes bonding and contributes to a special, loving relationship with your newborn.

Call (618) 257-4826 to talk with a certified lactation consultant. An appointment is necessary.

The Family Care Birthing Center offers monthly breastfeeding classes for expectant mothers, which is taught by certified lactation consultants. The class reviews breastfeeding techniques and is ideal for new mothers or as a refresher course. If you are considering breastfeeding or have chosen to breastfeed your baby, this class will provide information, encouragement, and support for a successful breastfeeding experience. There is a fee per couple. Both parents are encouraged to attend. Visit our Events Calendar or call (618) 257-4826 for class dates.

The Baby Care and Parenting classes teach you how to care for, play with, and protect your infant. Topics presented include: newborn care, infant feeding, baby bathing, when to call the doctor, home and toy safety, baby’s special language, six infant behavior stages, and five different ways to soothe your baby.

Classes are offered once a month at a fee of $5 per family. Visit our Events Calendar or call (618) 257-4826 for dates and times of classes and for information on how to register.

The Family Care Birthing Center offers the Sibling Class to prepare older siblings for the changes to expect as their family grows. This class will help them feel they are a very important part of the family as the older brother and sister. The classes are designed for children ages 2 to 12 years old. 

Through videos and class participation, children will learn to safely assist in caring for their new sibling (using lifelike dolls) and how being a part of the family makes the older sibling a special part of their family. All children will tour The Family Care Birthing Center, make a special gift for their new baby, and a craft to take home. Parents are encouraged to stay.

There is a small library of books for children and parents to view before or at the end of the class.Class is limited to children whose sibling will be born at The Family Care Birthing Center. Children who are sick or coughing/sneezing should reschedule for another class.

Additional preparation for siblings in the delivery room will be arranged through an individual request to the Nurse Manager.

There is a fee of $2 per child. Class size is limited and reservations are requested. Visit our Events Calendar or call (618) 257-4826 for class dates.