Birthing Naturally
Childbirth Education Classes hosted by The Alternative Birthing Center (ABC)
Classes tailored to ANYONE looking for a natural birthing experience!
At the ABC, we recognize the influence that the mind, and environment, can play in the birthing process-- sometimes starting a cascade of unwanted interventions. That's why for 45 years we have offered a birthing environment centered on supporting natural, family-centered birthing and require some form of birthing classes to qualify for our birthing center.
Our classes are tailored to future/current ABC families but is open to everyone interested in natural birth. The classes are led by ABC Registered Nurses, who have also personally birthed naturally (Check out Nurse Jessi in the title photo rocking that rebozo during her son's labor!).
We build our curriculum on current, evidenced-based education and aim to help you and your support person build the confidence you deserve. We recognize there are rare cases where advanced care may be needed--that's why our center is equipped for anything unexpected and our classes review the basics of when such care could be needed and inform you of the options that exist.
Our classes encompass a variety of common natural birthing methods. We offer the information you need to build your preferred birth team and birth wishes. Your support person will also learn what to expect and build their confidence and skills. We will review the most beneficial way to use comfort measures, such as massage, relaxation, visualization, breathing, music, hydrotherapy, labor aids and more.
We aim to empower you to trust your body and the process!
Anyone, from any hospital, is welcome to take our classes! To learn more about our classes, please click HERE. For additional questions or if you are having trouble registering, please email [email protected].
Did you know some classes may be eligible for reimbursement?* Call the number on the back of your insurance card and verify your coverage. -Childbirth: CPT code S9442 -Breastfeeding: CPT code S9943 -Infant Care: CPT Code S9444
*Any amount not covered by insurance will be the registrant's responsibility.
If your class required payment, a refund will be given if a cancellation request is received 2 business days (48 hours) prior to the start of the class/program. Ascension Providence reserves the right to cancel classes with less than 5 registrants. A full refund will be given for any class cancelled by the site.
With the exception of our May class, THIS CLASS IS TWO DAYS AS NOTED UNDER "SESSIONS". Cost covers birth person + support person. Please do not register separately.
Per Hospital Guidelines: As of 04/13/2023, masking is OPTIONAL* You and your support person should practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands and/or using hand sanitizer prior to entering and exiting the classroom.In the event that the community experiences an increase in COVID-19 cases, classes may be changed to virtual.If your class requires payment, a refund will be given if a cancellation request is received 2 business days (48 hours) prior to the start of the class/program. Ascension Providence reserves the right to cancel classes with less than 5 registrants. A full refund will be given for any class canceled by the site.In the event of unforeseen illness or circumstance, you will be given the option to move your registration to a virtual or e-class. An additional in-person option may be available on a case by case basis. *Ascension Michigan will continue to monitor COVID-19 rates in the communities we serve and will adjust our universal masking guidelines as necessary as we work to keep everyone safe.
If an option you are interested in is SOLD OUT, please contact us at [email protected] to join the waitlist or be the first to hear about an additional class date being added.
Saturdays, March 18 &25, 2023 from 9 am -2pm [Sold Out]
Please wear loose, comfortable clothing. There will be a breaks and snacks are encouraged :)
Sunday, May 28, 2023 from 9am-4pm [Sold Out]
This class has been moved to a one-day Sunday class due to a fantastic community event taking place on May 20! THIS CLASS REGISTRATION IS CLOSED BUT ONE SPOT IS STILL AVAILABLE, PLEASE EMAIL US AT [email protected]
Saturdays , July 15 & 22, 2023, from9:00am – 2:00pm [1 remaining]
Saturdays , September 16 & 23, 2023, from9:00am – 2:00pm [Sold Out]
Saturdays, November 18 & 25, 2023, from 9:00am – 2:00pm [3 remaining]
