Atrium Health Navicent Offering Virtual Childbirth Classes to Help Expectant Parents
Virtual classes are available on topics of childbirth, breastfeeding and infant safety
Atrium Health Navicent is now offering virtual childbirth classes to help expectant parents prepare for bringing a baby into the world. Physicians recommend that all pregnant patients participate in classes between the 24th and 36th weeks of pregnancy, with all classes completed by the 36th week.
“Welcoming a child into the world is an amazing experience, but it can also be overwhelming. By sharing information about what to expect during delivery and basic infant care skills, we’re also providing parents and caregivers with peace of mind and support as they make the transition to caring for a baby,” said Debra Riley, assistant vice president for Atrium Health Navicent Patient Care Services.
Atrium Health Navicent is committed to addressing Georgia’s high maternal mortality rate and giving all mothers and their babies the very best services so they can thrive. Georgia has the second-highest maternal mortality rate in the nation. Black women in Georgia are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women nationally, according to data from the CDC.
Virtual childbirth classes offered include:
• Preparing for Childbirth: In this live virtual class, a registered nurse will provide information about what to expect during labor and delivery, relaxation and breathing techniques to help during labor, and pain management options. Upcoming classes are scheduled for Aug. 21, Sept. 10 and Sept. 18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Breastfeeding Basics: In this live virtual class, a registered nurse will teach tips and techniques to help mothers have a positive, successful breastfeeding journey. Class topics include how breastfeeding works, how to establish a good milk supply, how to help your baby latch, how to position your baby for breastfeeding and how to determine if your baby is getting enough milk. Resources for additional support will also be discussed. Upcoming classes are scheduled for Sept. 14 and Sept. 21 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Understanding Infant and Child Safety: In this live virtual class, a registered nurse will discuss common accidents and injuries affecting infants, what you can do to prevent injury and how to be prepared in the event of an emergency.
Upcoming classes are scheduled for Aug. 26, Sept. 16 and Sept. 23 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Classes are offered at a fee of $30-$45 per class, but a discount is available for those signing up for all three classes by using the code BABYBUNDLE during checkout. Financial assistance is also available. To register, visit navicenthealth.org/childbirthclass. For questions, call 478-633-2771.
Free tours of the Family Birth Centers at Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center and Atrium Health Navicent Baldwin are also available. Tours provide information about services, policies and procedures, along with a walking tour of labor, delivery and recovery spaces.
To register for a birth center tour at Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center, located at 777 Hemlock Street in Macon, call 478-633-2771. For a tour at Atrium Health Navicent Baldwin, located at 821 North Cobb St. in Milledgeville, call 478- 776-4341.
About Atrium Health Navicent
Atrium Health Navicent is the leading provider of healthcare in central and south Georgia and is committed to its mission of elevating health and wellbeing through compassionate care. Atrium Health Navicent provides high-quality, personalized care in 53 specialties at more than 50 facilities throughout the region. As part of the largest, integrated, nonprofit health system in the Southeast, it is also able to tap into some of the nation’s leading medical experts and specialists with Atrium Health, allowing it to provide the best care close to home – including advanced innovations in virtual medicine and care. Throughout its 125-year history in the community, Atrium Health Navicent has remained dedicated to enhancing health and wellness for individuals throughout the region through nationally recognized quality care, community health initiatives and collaborative partnerships. It is also one of the leading teaching hospitals in the region, helping to ensure viability for rural health care for the next generation. For more information, please visit www.NavicentHealth.org.