Birth and New Baby Classes, Tours
Childbirth Pre-Registration
Click the button below to learn about the steps for pre-registering for your childbirth.
Pre-Register Now
Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital offers several classes led by specially trained nurses and other experts to help you and your family get ready for your new baby.
To register for the class, click on a class or go to our event calendar. If you have questions, email childbirthed@sbch.org, or call 805-569-8229. Once you register you will receive a confirmation letter by email with important details about your class. Some of the classes we offer include:
Prepared Childbirth Classes
Sign up early for this class, which is suggested for your third trimester. Plan to finish classes 2 – 4 weeks before your due date.
Topics include:
- Breathing, relaxation and coping techniques for labor
- Coaching role for labor companions.
- Medical options including Cesarean
- Care for mom and baby after birth
It is recommended that you consider viewing the Childbirth Center Tour, as well as taking the Breastfeeding and Infant/Child CPR classes.
Childbirth Center Tours
See our beautiful Childbirth Center with its family-centered birthing rooms and facilities. A virtual Childbirth Center Tour is available online. Please click here for the link.
Mother's Circle Breastfeeding Support
This free support group welcomes breastfeeding mothers to touch base with our breastfeeding experts. Occurs every Wednesday from 2-4pm.
Breastfeeding
Learn the many rewards of breastfeeding for you and your baby, while getting tips for long-term success. We encourage partners to attend because they play an important support role. Topics include:
- Advantages of breastfeeding for mother and baby
- Physiology of lactation
- Nutritional needs of mother and baby
- Support role of your husband, family, and doctor
- Getting the best start and tips for managing the transition
Maternidad - Maternity Classes in Spanish
Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital offers childbirth classes in Spanish. Registered nurses with special training offer preparation and support for the challenges of pregnancy and labor. It is recommended that you plan to finish this class 2-4 weeks before your due date.
Topics include:
- Breathing and comfort techniques
- Stages of labor and delivery
- Medical options for labor and delivery, including caesarean section
- Birth Center Tour
- Postpartum preparation with an emphasis on caring for the new mother and baby
Infant/Child CPR Classes
Learn lifesaving skills that may be needed if an infant or child chokes, stops breathing or does not have a heartbeat. This course is for parents, babysitters and friends who don’t need an official certificate. It is based on American Heart Association guidelines and taught by certified AHA instructors.
Car Seat Safety
Did you know that four out of five car seats are incorrectly installed? Let a certified car seat technician show you the proper way to install and use a car seat. Please contact Trauma Services for a free appointment at 805-569-7478 or 805-569-7521
Registration and Financial Assistance
Cost of childbirth classes can be reduced or waived based on financial need. To request financial assistance, or if you have any special circumstance, call 805-569-8229 or e-mail: childbirthed@sbch.org.
