Medical center hosting newborn class
Published 7:02 am Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Preparing for a newborn can be one of the most exciting and stressful times of your life. But now, Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin has a class for that.
The Women’s Special Care Unit at the medical center can now assist with all childbirth preparations through childbirth education classes.
Childbirth education classes, previously provided by Mower County Public Health in Austin, is now offered through Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin and is taught by registered nurses in the Women’s Special Care Unit, along with guest physician speakers from Mayo Clinic Health System.
“It is our goal and commitment to provide women in our area with the best prenatal care and education prior to giving birth,” said Nancy Hoversten, Women’s Special Care Unit nurse manager at the medical center. “Each individual is unique and so is each pregnancy and birthing experience. We believe childbirth education is a vital way to make your birthing experience the best it can be, and we’re here to provide you with the education you need.”
Childbirth education classes provide information about breathing and relaxation techniques, medical interventions, stages of labor, labor partner assistance, post-partum care, breastfeeding, and car seat safety and education.
Hoversten stresses that support is very important during childbirth, so it’s recommended to bring someone with to the class who will be along for the labor.
Childbirth education classes should be started in the sixth month of pregnancy.
The next childbirth education class sessions will be held on Jan. 16, 19, 23 and 26 — a total of four, three-hour sessions from 6 to 9 p.m. in Classroom 3 located on the third floor of the clinic at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin. Classes are free and open to anyone who is in their third trimester, along with their partner.
To register for the January session or to inquire about other childbirth education classes, go to mayoclinichealthsystem.org and click on Minnesota, Austin, and Classes and Events or call the Women’s Special Care Unit at 507-434-1380.
