
About this Event
This is an IN-PERSON class at the Vanderbilt Birth Center.
This class is available only for first-time parents who are also clients at the Vanderbilt Birth Center.
This registration is for the full series, held on Mondays, February 24, March 3, 17, 24, 31, and April 7. There is no class the week of March 10.
Are you expecting a little one and feeling a bit overwhelmed about the whole childbirth thing? Well, we've got you covered! Join us for our Birth Journey Childbirth Series at Vanderbilt Birth Center. This in-person class will kick off on Monday, February 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM and will meet every Thursday until April 7, 2026.
Our experienced instructors will guide you through everything you need to know about childbirth, from labor and delivery to postpartum care. You'll also have the chance to meet other expectant parents and build a support network for your journey ahead.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to prepare yourself for the birth of your little one! Sign up now and let's embark on this incredible Birth Journey together!


Agenda
Class 1 - Preparing: Early Labor
Info: This comprehensive childbirth class covers essential birth anatomy and physiology, helping you recognize the signs of labor and understand what's happening in your body during each stage of labor. We'll explore early labor experiences, effective positions, and coping strategies.
Class 2 - Taking Off: Active Labor
Info: We’ll transition to active labor dynamics, including when to go to your birth location and advanced comfort techniques. You'll learn relaxation methods, breathing techniques, and various labor positions, while discovering how your support team can best assist you. We'll also review procedures at your chosen place of birth, ensuring you feel confident and well-prepared for your birthing experience.
Class 3 - Crossing Over: Transition and Pushing
Info: Starting with transition, we'll explore what's happening in your body, how you'll feel, and targeted coping strategies. We'll cover navigating common labor challenges and minimizing interventions when desired, then transition to the pushing stage, including what you can expect, various pushing techniques, breathing methods, and effective positions. You'll learn powerful ways to reframe pain as a natural part of your body's working process.
Class 4 - Returning Home: Postpartum
Info: We'll discuss the Golden Hour—that precious first hour after birth for bonding and initial breastfeeding—followed by the immediate postpartum period and essential knowledge for your first days at home with your new baby.
Class 5 - Returning Home: Understanding Your Newborn
Info: This essential newborn care class begins with what to expect immediately after birth, then teaches you the art of reading your baby's cues and understanding newborn sleep patterns. You'll master practical care skills, including bathing, cord care, diapering, swaddling, and dressing, while learning what's normal in newborn appearance and behavior to ease common new parent worries. We'll cover strategies for calming both yourself and your baby, then address important safety topics, including car seat basics, recognizing signs of newborn illness, choosing a pediatrician, and infant CPR essentials. Finally, we'll discuss preparing pets for a baby's arrival and confidently venturing out into the world with your newborn.
Class 6 - Returning Home: Breastfeeding Foundations
Info: This comprehensive breastfeeding class covers the complete journey from birth through the coming months, explaining how milk production works and helping you achieve a comfortable latch. You'll learn various feeding positions, recognize feeding cues, and understand how to know if your baby is getting enough milk. We'll address common concerns that arise, proper breast care techniques, and how breastfeeding fits into your daily lifestyle. The class also briefly covers returning to work and pumping basics, ensuring you feel confident and supported throughout your feeding journey with practical knowledge and troubleshooting skills for success.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Vanderbilt Birth Center, 3212 West End Avenue, Nashville, United States
USD 315.99