Ready, Set, Baby!
I now live in Ashland, Oregon though most of my work has been in the San Francisco Bay Area. I was certified as both childbirth educator and birth doula over thirty-five years ago. Currently I am offering small group classes virtually and are suitable for any birth venue of your choice. In the past I have offered classes at Pacifica Family Maternity Center in Berkeley, Then-Comes-Baby in Oakland, Alta Bates Hospital and Birthways in Berkeley, Natural Resources in San Francisco, Stanford Hospital in Palo Alto, Blossom Birth and Family in Palo Alto (of which I’m the founder), and myriad other Bay Area locations. I also offer private classes in the comfort of your home, on your schedule…your life is busy and your time is precious. Sometimes having an educator come to you will work best with your life needs. Socially distanced and masked, of course.
I have an eclectic straightforward non-judgmental style of teaching “what to expect” partially based on what I have seen work at the hundreds of births I have attended as a doula and former midwifery apprentice at Pacifica. Classes cover basic anatomy and birth physiology, pre-labor signs, and how to make decisions that will allow you to follow your own path to birth in your unique way. Learn how to make your home a peaceful “laboring space” as we practice comfort measures, massage options, labor positions, partner support, breathing and sound techniques. Decision-making, variations, medications, complications and technology will also be discussed, as well as information regarding the use of a birth plan should you wish to create one to share with your practitioners. Classes are suitable for those birthing at home, hospital or birth center.
Private childbirth preparation classes are held either in three classes of approximately 2½ hours each, or two classes of approximately 3-3½ hours each, depending on your schedule and mine. Length of classes is approximate, as my work is not complete until your questions are answered and you feel inspired, confident and ready for labor!
Private prenatal series in your home: $350
For Private classes or a Preparing for Labor session, email Anna at anna@hurty.com to schedule a date and time. Fees are due at the first class.
Ideally, I suggest your series of preparation classes be attended in your seventh month of pregnancy or early in the eighth month to allow for time to process, practice and make your ideas your own. However, preparation at any stage will be helpful regardless of timing. To allow you to choose the best dates to suit you, please contact me as soon as possible.
I look forward to meeting you and guiding you as you explore the myriad birth options on your own time, in your own way and at your convenience!