ValleyCare Health System wants to help make your pregnancy and childbirth experience comfortable and joyful. Our maternity classes include a comprehensive range of parenting and childbirth preparation program for all community residents, whether or not your birth is planned at ValleyCare Medical Center.
Note: Classes usually fill up quickly, so early registration is recommended. You register for a class online using our maternity class calendar or by calling the ValleyCare Health Information and Physician Network at 800.719.9111.
Childbirth Preparation Class
This one-day class discusses a variety of topics you will want to know as you get closer to your due date. Discussion will focus on the physiology of the birth process, pain management options including epidurals and IV medication, and what to expect during your hospital birth and recovery for both natural and Cesarean sections. We will also cover basic breathing and massage techniques used in labor. A video of births will be shown. Participation is recommended in the third trimester for mother and her coach. Meets for one day. Evening and Saturday classes are available. Fee: $75.
Children's Early Intervention
ValleyCare's Physical and Sports Medicine department offers a program for infants, toddlers and young children with developmental disabilities. Learn more about our Children's Early Intervention program.
Infant Care Class
This class is recommended for couples in their last trimester of pregnancy. Taught by a registered nurse, it reviews general infant care including:
- Diapering
- Circumcision care
- Bathing
- Temperatures
- Skin care
- Newborn characteristics
Partners are encouraged to attend. Please bring a doll suitable for practicing baby techniques. Three-hour class. Evenings or Saturdays are available. Fee: $50
Infant CPR
This two-hour class teaches cardio-pulmonary resuscitation on infants up to 12 months of age. Fee: $20 per person; $35/two people.
Lamaze Class
Lamaze teaches expectant parents and/or coach the physiology of the birth process, in-depth breathing and relaxation, useful coping techniques, massage and the role of coach. Cesarean sections, epidurals, medications and other intervention will be discussed. Meets once a week for six weeks. Participation recommended in third trimester for mother and her coach. Fee: $ 125.
Lamaze Intensive
The same information is discussed as in the Lamaze class but in a compact course of one evening a week for four weeks. Participation recommended in third trimester for mother and her coach. Fee: $125.
Moms at Rest
This at-home service helps expectant mothers confined to bed rest for the remainder of their pregnancy develop a "survival guide" tailored to their individual needs. Mothers are taught ways to organize the day, stay healthy and calm, care for other children and continue to meet the needs of a household. Physician referral required.
For information, call Physical Medicine Services at 925.416.3667.
Mother's Support Group
Join other new moms in an open discussion format about infant changes/needs, breastfeeding, sleeping habits and many other topics. Meets every Tuesday morning at 10 a.m. in classroom one at ValleyCare Medical Plaza at W. Las Positas and Stoneridge, 5725 W. Las Positas Blvd., Pleasanton. Fee: $20/four weeks (minimum charge, mothers may renew for $5 per week).
New Mom Wellness
The New Mom Wellness program offered at ValleyCare's wellness center, LifeStyleRx, is an effective way for new mothers to feel better and get back in shape. Learn more about this comprehensive, four-week New Mom Wellness program.
Prenatal Breastfeeding Class
Taught by Certified Lactation Consultants, this class is for expectant mothers who are planning to breastfeed their babies, or mothers who need more information before making the decision to breastfeed. Class includes “how-tos” of nursing that will help mothers achieve the confidence needed for a satisfying nursing experience. Partners are encouraged to attend. Two-hour class. Fee: $50.
Prenatal Lunch and Learn
The Prenatal Lunch and Learn at LifeStyleRx is designed to provide expecting mothers with the tools and resources they need to maintain a healthy and fit lifestyle. This free workshop is offered the 3rd Monday of each month from noon - 1:00pm. Child care is available for those with children between the ages of 8 weeks to 7 years old.
For Information, call LifeStyleRx 925.454.6342.
Sibling Class
This class is designed to help prepare young brothers and sisters (3-6 years old) for the arrival of a new baby to the family. Children should bring a doll or stuffed animal and a picture of themselves as an infant. Parents must attend with child. Fee: $25/child.