Maternity and Newborn Care Center: Education
The event of a lifetime takes a lot of preparation. At Hunterdon Medical Center, we are a family focused hospital, and we share your excitement, your concern and your need for information. Parent and Childbirth Educators, who are also certified childbirth educators or certified lactation consultants, are here to help. Many of our nurses at the Maternity and Newborn Care Center have received multi-disciplinary training and hold advanced certifications. This specialized training gives our nurses the expertise needed to provide care to women throughout the pregnancy and birthing process, from prenatal classes, labor and deliververy to recovery and post partum care. Whether this is your first baby or your third, we have classes specially suited to your needs. From Lamaze childbirth education to breastfeeding, to helping a sibling welcome the new baby, we'll answer all your questions, make the unknown familiar and be there for you through this exciting time. All classes are held at the HMC Education Center.
Class Schedules
Directions to HMC Education Center
Class Registration:
Classes fill quickly so please register for all classes by your sixth month of pregnancy. Your class will be scheduled 8 to 10 weeks before your expected due date. If you have a special request for a specific date, please note this on the registration form. We’ll be happy to honor your request, as long as the class finishes in time for your due date.
For more information, please call 908-788-MOMS.
Personal Birth Consultant
Your personal birth consultant is a free service offered exclusively at Hunterdon Medical Center. She can help you with a wide range of concerns, from finding a doctor or midwife to caring for a newborn and everything in between. Call her for a phone consultation to address questions and concerns. Your personal birth consultant provides tours of the Maternity Newborn Care Center and can schedule additional periodic appointments to address your needs. She can also provide you with a Pre-Pregnancy Information Packet that provides materials that will answer many questions you may have about making healthy lifestyle changes before you become pregnant and an Early Pregnancy Information Packet that is offered to couples up to the sixth month of pregnancy.
Maternity Tours
Free tours of the Maternity Newborn Care Center are held regularly. Tours fill quickly, so please call 908-788-6667 to reserve a space as early as possible. Tours last about one hour. Children are welcome!
Please note: If you are scheduled in one of our Lamaze or Hypnobirth® classes, a tour is included in your class series.
Healthy Mamas
Now that you are pregnant, taking care of your health has never been more important for you and your growing baby. Having a healthy baby depends on you!
Healthy Mamas is a free program for moms and dads-to-be which focuses on adjusting to parenthood, eating well, managing stress and exercising wisely; as well as information about making feeding choices, and what can be done to reduce the risk of premature labor and other complications of pregnancy, thus helping to have a healthy baby. This program also gives couples an opportunity to meet and talk with other expectant couples experiencing the same changes. This program is a series of four classes, and is held on Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Hunterdon Medical Center. The class is open to pregnant couples in the first half of their pregnancy, as well as couples who are planning on becoming pregnant. Healthy Mamas is not intended to replace visits to your healthcare provider, but to provide a casual atmosphere where couples can learn and their questions answered, as they journey through parenthood.
Couples completing the series will receive a $35 credit toward a Childbirth Education class at Hunterdon Medical Center. Preregistration is required. For questions, or to register, call Parenting and Childbirth Education Services at 908-788-MOMS (6667). The Healthy Mamas program has been generously funded in part by sanofi-aventis.
Childbirth Preparation
The birth of a child is perhaps the most exciting, memorable time in a couple’s life. Expectant parents are often exposed to a wide array of advice from family, friends, as well as TV and books. While well intentioned, all the conflicting messages may actually cause more anxiety and worry for the woman and her partner. Well meaning friends and family may advise a couple that ‘classes didn’t work’ for them, so why take them at all? Simply going to class, however, is not the whole story. Couples need to practice and rehearse what they have learned, so it becomes an automatic response during labor. Prepared childbirth classes help parents by decreasing anxiety, increasing confidence, and empowering them to work with their bodies during childbirth. Classes encourage mothers to trust their bodies and their ability to birth their babies.
It is important to understand that taking a childbirth class will be beneficial, no matter what a couple’s vision may be of their birth experience, Whether you envision a birth that uses pain medications, or one free of any interventions, the strategies you learn during classes will aid in achieving your goal. In fact, research shows that parents who have taken prepared childbirth classes have a greater satisfaction with their overall childbirth experience, regardless of how the labor turned out.
Throughout classes partners are given the opportunity to express their concerns, hopes, and fears in a positive, supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere. Friendships are formed with other couples sharing the same emotions and experiences. Classes at Hunterdon Medical Center are taught and questions are answered by registered nurses specially trained techniques using only evidence based information. At the end of these classes mothers can confidently state, “I can do this! I can birth my baby! My health care provider and I will work together to make this the experience of a lifetime!”
Childbirth preparation classes are for expectant mothers and their partners as they prepare for their first birth experience. Childbirth classes give mothers all the information they need in preparing to give birth. At Hunterdon Medical Center, we offer two types of childbirth preparation classes: Lamaze classes (in a variety of formats) and HypnoBirthing® classes. (Fee) Please see below for specific class information.
Lamaze Classes
Whatever your vision may be of your birth experience, taking a Lamaze class is beneficial for all expectant parents. Whether you envision a birth that uses pain medications, or one free of any interventions, Lamaze strategies will aid in achieving your goal. Our classes teach all about the birthing process; including comfort measures, a maternity unit tour, medical interventions, medications and anesthesia. Couples are encouraged to use the comfort measures and breathing techniques that work for them. Lamaze classes help develop the confidence you will need to give birth, something your body already knows how to do.
If you are planning on using pain medication, you may be thinking that taking a class is not necessary. However, the classes will give you the tools you need to work with your body and stay relaxed. Relaxation is essential during labor, because if the mother is tense, the labor can take much longer. Being able to know what your body is doing, and how to work with (instead of against) it, will help your labor to go faster. This will help you get to the point in your labor where medications can be used much more quickly! And if you are you are planning not to use medications, or are undecided, the classes will provide all the information and tools to work with your body during the birthing process.
Please try to register by your sixth month of pregnancy. For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
Weekday Evening Lamaze
Our Lamaze classes are ongoing throughout the year. The four or five-week series is held one weekday evening per week. Each class is either 2 or 2-1/2 hours long. A couple should begin classes approximately eight to ten weeks prior to their due date, so the classes are completed two to four weeks before the baby arrives. For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
Weekend Lamaze
The weekend classes include everything that is covered in the weekday evening classes, but in a different format. Class times are Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Lunch is served both days of the weekend class. For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
Private Lamaze
Classes can be arranged upon request for those couples whose schedules prohibit them from attending regular classes. For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
House Call Lamaze
If you are placed on bed rest and are unable to attend classes, we will provide a modified version of our Lamaze class in your home, at your convenience, if you live in or near Hunterdon County. For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
Mom’s Bedrest Basket
This consists of reading materials and several videos for the couple to review in their home. The materials are given to the couple, but the videos must be returned.
Refresher Lamaze
Refresher Lamaze is a class for couples who have completed Lamaze Preparation for Childbirth with a recent pregnancy. The refresher class includes a review of breathing, relaxation, comfort and pushing techniques, recent developments in maternity care, how this labor and delivery may differ from before, medical interventions and caesarean and VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) information, as needed. If a couple has never completed a full childbirth preparation class with a previous pregnancy, they should plan on taking a full series rather than a refresher. For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
HypnoBirthing®
Looking for a stress free birth? HypnoBirthing® may be for you. HypnoBirthing® is a different approach to childbirth education and uses hypnosis. It focuses on the natural birth progress and is as intervention free as possible. Hypnosis is a naturally induced state of relaxed concentration in which suggestions are made to the subconscious mind. The subconscious mind influences choices we make, and what we think and feel. It is not magic and almost anyone who chooses to can reach a deep relaxation and redirected focus.
When laboring with HypnoBirthing®, you will experience something similar to daydreaming or the focus that occurs when you are engrossed in a book. You will be able to talk, but be totally relaxed and in control. You will be aware of your body's birthing process, but you will also be able to determine the extent to which you feel your uterine contractions. Birth will be experienced in an environment that is calm, relaxing and free of fear and tension that cause pain.
HypnoBirthing® classes teach you how to achieve a safe, easier and more comfortable birth. Techniques include those which help eliminate the fear-tension pain cycle, produce endorphins (the body's natural pain relievers) and will also help your birthing companion join in a calm and serene birthing environment.
HypnoBirthing® is offered on Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Hunterdon Medical Center. Participants should not sign up for lamaze if taking HypnoBirthing® classes. For more information or to register call 908-788-MOMS.
Breastfeeding Classes
If you choose to breastfeed, our breastfeeding classes will teach you all you need to know to get started with nursing your baby. If you are unsure about breastfeeding we will give you information so you can make the choice that is right for you. A certified Lactation Consultant is also available in the Maternity unit seven days a week to help you. For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
Postpartum and Infant Care Lessons
Before you take your new baby home, you will have the opportunity to learn the basics of infant care through our closed circuit television system. Topics include: infant care, postpartum care, breastfeeding, carseat safety, diapering, bathing and feeding your baby, among others. Your nurse will also help you to learn how to care for your baby.
Car Seat Services
We want to make sure your baby is safe in the car! Our certified car seat technician will show you:
- How to correctly install your car seat in your car
- How to correctly secure your baby in your car seat
This is a free service we provide to new and expectant parents, even if you are not having your baby at Hunterdon Medical Center. Due to technitian availability, appointments are required. Call 908-788-MOMS to find out more information or to schedule your car seat check.
Sibling Class "On Becoming A New Baby"
Is your family growing once again? Join us for an enjoyable Saturday morning at our Sibling Class. This class is designed for children ages 2 1/2 to 7 years old. While your child attends this class, you will have the chance to attend a parents' class, a feature that makes this program unique. For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
What’s a Layette, Anyway? What NOT To Buy
Expecting or adopting?
- Shopping for baby gear and overwhelmed by the array of equipment available?
- What do you really need?
Come join us, and you’ll learn what is absolutely essential to get started and …
What can wait a few weeks or months
Moneysaving tips from experienced moms
What not to buy, ever!
We will cover all supplies, from bathing, diapering, feeding, clothing and bedding to travel and sickness.
If you have a baby registry list, bring it along!
If not, bring pen and paper to take notes.
This class may be attended by a couple at any point in their pregnancy.
Please note: The information presented in this class is not covered in any of our other classes.
(Fee) For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
The Happiest Baby on the Block™
Magic? A miracle? No, it’s a reflex! ™ Learn an extraordinary way to calm your crying baby. Expectant and new parents of babies younger than three months will learn step by step how to help their babies sleep longer and how to soothe the fussiest infant in minutes…or less! (Fee)
For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
After Your Baby Arrives...
Infant Massage
Infant massage classes are intended for babies birth through one year. Infant massage nurtures the loving, touching contact between caregiver and infant and has a positive effect upon subsequent development, helping babies calm faster and sleep better. For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
BabySteps Classes
BabySteps 1 (for parents and infants, birth to six months, meets weekly on Thursdays)
BabySteps II (for parents and infants six to twelve months, meets the first and third Thursday of the month)
Toddler Steps (for parents and toddlers 1 to 3 years old, meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month)
Parent support groups designed to answer the many questions that arise and to assist the new parents in their exciting parenting journey. For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
"The Lunch Bunch" Breastfeeding Support Group
This group meets the first Thursday of the month from 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. at Hunterdon Medical Center. No registration is required.
Mom Time
Everyone around you is excited and congratulates you.
It’s great to be a mom … but, at times, you’re not so happy.
You’re not alone … many new moms feel the same way!
Having a baby can be stressful and every mother needs mothering herself.
Meet other mothers who feel like you.
If you want some “Mom Time”, come join us at this Postpartum Support International Group.
A free, unstructured discussion group facilitated by registered nurses who have particular expertise in helping women successfully cope with the challenges of the childbearing years. Talk more personally about the challenges of caring for a new baby and develop a personal set of coping strategies for dealing with difficult times.
Time: 1: p.m. ¬ 2:30 p.m.
Meetings are held at the Hunterdon Medical Center in the Conference Room, unless otherwise noted or posted the day of class. To find the Conference Room, go to the elevator lobby on the first floor, and take Corridor B. At the end, make a right and go thru the cafeteria. The Conference Room is on your left up the short ramp. No registration required and children are welcome. Don’t worry if your baby is crying, if you are running late, or if you need to nurse your baby at the meeting.
For more information, call 908-788-MOMS.
Mother's Helper Service
The Mother’s Helper Service is an in-home assistance program that caters to the needs of new parents, whether it be their first or third child. The Mother’s Helper Service is provided by Hunterdon Healthcare’s Visiting Health and Supportive Services and offers either a Companion or Certified Home Health Aide.
The Mother’s Helper Companions have completed specialized infant care classes. They can assist new parents with baby care and household chores, enabling parents to have some time for themselves. The Companions also can provide:
- Infant care and sibling supervision
- Diaper changes and dressing
- Meal planning and preparation
- Grocery shopping
- Light housework
- Assist with errands
- Make beds and change linens
- Take baby or siblings for a walk
- Read and play games with siblings
The Certified Home Health Aides are specially trained to provide personal care to mom and baby. In addition to all the services the Companions provide, the Home Health Aide services also include hands on care such as:
- Assistance with bathing/shampooing/skin care for baby
- Hair care
- Light massage/foot massage
- Infant feeding
A Registered Nurse will accompany the Certified Home Health Aide on the first visit to develop a plan of care per the parent’s specifications and needs.
The Companions and Certified Home Health Aides can be scheduled in 4 hour blocks of time with initial visit costs ranging from $105 for Companions and $165 for Certified Home Health Aides. Additional 4 hour block visits cost $80 for Companions and $105 for Certified Home Health Aides. Gift certificates are available for the Mother’s Helper Service. If you are interested in scheduling the Mother’s Helper Service or would like additional information please call 908-788-2562.