Your guide to newborn care and childbirth classes
Taking these classes before your delivery can ease childbirth challenges and help with the transition after your baby's arrival
Welcoming a baby marks the start of an exciting new chapter, but it also brings unexpected challenges. While the early days of parenthood — especially motherhood — are often filled with joy, they also come with sleepless nights and hurdles. Preparing ahead of time helps you embrace both the magical moments and the tough ones. At MountainStar Healthcare, we offer virtual and in-person classes coveringchildbirth and newborn care. These classes equip you with the knowledge, skills and confidence to help you navigate the unknowns of labor, delivery and caring for your newborn.
Why should I take childbirth and newborn care classes?
Preparation is the key to success, whether it's for a big exam, starting a new job or welcoming a new baby. Childbirth and newborn care classes are designed to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to feel confident and ready for what's ahead.
In a childbirth class, you’ll learn about the different stages of labor, pain management techniques and postpartum recovery. These classes also provide invaluable parenting tips that can make the transition to life with a newborn smoother. According to a 2017 study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), mothers who took childbirth classes reported feeling prepared and better informed during labor and delivery.
Newborn care classes are designed to prepare you for what to expect after your baby is born, covering the initial period right after birth and continuing through the first 12 months. You'll learn about both physical and emotional changes that may arise, along with healthy habits and areas of concern to watch for.
Whether it's your first baby or just brushing up on your skills, these classes offer a strong foundation to help you navigate one of life’s most meaningful experiences.
When is the best time to take childbirth and newborn care classes?
Ideally, the best time to begin childbirth preparation is during your third trimester — typically between 28 and 36 weeks. This timing ensures you'll have ample time to practice what you've learned as your due date approaches. Some parents prefer to take newborn care and infant CPR classes earlier in pregnancy, especially if they want time to review the material at their own pace.
Okay, I’ve signed up for classes. What can I expect?
When you attend classes at MountainStar, you’ll be welcomed into a supportive environment led by experienced professionals. Each class combines instruction with hands-on practice and discussion, so you’ll walk away with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Some of the topics you can expect include:
- Stages of labor and delivery
- Breathing and comfort techniques for pain management
- Newborn care essentials: diapering, feeding and soothing
- Safe sleep practices and infant CPR
Partners are welcome — and encouraged — to attend. Many classes also provide virtual options, allowing you to participate from the comfort of your home.
While you're taking these classes, consider signing up for a tour of the maternity unit. Many hospitals offer tours of their maternity ward to help families familiarize themselves with the facility. You can find out more about the labor and delivery tours at MountainStar Healthcare.
What are the benefits of virtual and on-demand classes?
We know how hectic life can be for expectant parents. That's why we offer virtual and on-demand options for several of our birthing and newborn care classes. So, whether you have other kids at home or have trouble getting away from work, our virtual and on-demand classes allow you to attend classes at your convenience from any location.
Where can I find more information about these classes?
Your provider is your go-to resource throughout your pregnancy and beyond. At MountainStar Healthcare, our team of expert OB/GYNs and midwives is here to answer all your questions — from prenatal vitamins to labor and delivery care. We offer a variety of classes and events to help you prepare for birth and life after delivery. Our extensive network includes specialists ranging from OB/GYNs and midwives to high-risk pregnancy doctors and neonatologists. Find an OB/GYN.