HCEA/DNH is such a wonderful group
Anyone expecting or planning on becoming pregnant absolutely needs to have a childbirth class
My educator was Pat Goding and to this day I credit her words (just from the class I took with others) for helping me get through both my births without any intervention.
Here is their site (which may be under construction): www.hawaiichildbirthprofessionals.com
HCEA/DNH referral phone number: (808) 623-3771
Choosing a Childbirth Preparation Class
1. What is the background/experience of the teacher?
2. Is the instructor certified, if so with whom? (ICEA, Lamaze, Bradley)
3. Is there a particular childbirth method taught?
4. Does the educator participate in continuing education in the field?
5. Is the class consumer-oriented and does it include information about options and choices for birth?
6. What is the length of the series? (in total hours)
7. What is the cost?
8. What information is covered?
9. Is the instructor available to answer questions prior to, during, and after the series?
10. What is the usual size of the class? Is there a limit?
11. How much time is spent in discussion, lecture, practicing relaxation and breathing exercises, comfort measures, etc.?
Comments on: "Hawai`i Childbirth Educators Association/Doula Network of Hawai`i" (1)
How many child birth educators cover all the important facts about neonatal circumcision? How many of them are educated in the male sexual anatomy as well as the female? Do any of them cover circumcision facts, risks, potential effects, as well as the important functions of the foreskin that are protective, immunological, and sexual? This is something that is definitely lumped into the child birth experience (somewhere between child birth and leaving the hospital), unless it is a home birth. Many people are ignorant about these facts and make decisions that are not fully informed, which is unfortunate. I don’t see this listed in most of the class curriculums.