Berkshire Health Systems has many programs to help you prepare to bring a new baby into the world and into your home. Taught by certified childbirth instructors, our education programs are designed to help you make informed choices about your delivery, caring for yourself and caring for your newborn. Childbirth series are now being offered at the North Adams Campus of BMC.
Prepared Childbirth Series
This four week series will provide you with information on what you can expect during the labor and delivery process, breathing and relaxation techniques, pain management options, and how to care for yourself and infant after delivery.
Fee: $100.00 per couple* – see insurance information below.
Offered Thursday evenings, every other month. 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Successful Breastfeeding
This one session class will provide you with information on the benefits of breastfeeding, things you can do to get ready, tips for getting off to a good start, ways mom’s partner can help, and suggestions for breastfeeding when returning to work. Attendance is recommended for you and your partner between the 4th and 7th month of pregnancy.
Fee: This class is offered for free by Berkshire Nursing Families, as part of their mission to provide their services at no charge to families.
Offered Thursday evenings, every other month. 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Prepared Childbirth Refresher
If you participated in a full childbirth series during a previous pregnancy, you will find the refresher series a helpful review. This two session series focuses on breathing and relaxation techniques, information on changes in the management of labor and delivery since the birth of your last baby, and ways to prepare children at home for the new arrival.
Fee: $40.00 per couple*
Thursday evenings, offered every other month. 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Private Class Option for Childbirth Series
If you find your work or your lifestyle prevents you from attending one of the scheduled childbirth series, there is an option for a private childbirth class. Based on the availability of an instructor, you can schedule the day and time of the class at your convenience. There are two 2-hour sessions.
Fee: $200.00 per couple * (Many insurance companies will reimburse part of the fee)
* Most private insurance companies will reimburse all or part of the fee for these classes. There is no out of pocket expense for clients with MA Health or Be Healthy insurance.