Childbirth Education for LGBTQ Families

MAIA’s Childbirth Education class is a one-of-a-kind, deeply moving experience. Both practical and experiential, this class is an experience not to be missed!

Families come together in a positive and affirming space to prepare for labor and birth. Over the course of the weekend, queer issues such as conception stories, gender, and affirmation of the nonbiological parent are woven throughout the childbirth preparation material. Presented with a blend of lecture, group discussion, experiential learning, and inner exploration.

MAIA’s class offers complete preparation for hospital, birth center or home birth. Specific topics addressed include: stages of labor, anatomy and physiology of birth, coping with labor, comfort measures, partner support, decision-making during labor, and what to expect in the hours after birth.

Get the skills you need to cope with labor from a place of empowerment and trust

Community is created here! MAIA Childbirth Classes continue to meet for years to come.

Words from past participants:

“The instructor led material and group discussion opened my eyes to things I hadn’t even thought about related to the birthing process. An incredibly valuable class.”

“The class was a nice mix of nuts and bolts and experiential/interactive/reflective activities. It was a great experience—really got me to think through more things.”

“I appreciated how open Kristin was to the uniqueness and individuality of people’s experiences, particularly regarding gender and gender identity--and the experience of partners.”

“The class brought up issues that have proven to be tender and so critical to our family. Thank you!”

“I really appreciated the blend between information and experience/exercise, and particularly the opportunity for us all to share our stories since it was cathartic and meaningful to share them in the context of queer community.”

“The instructor was incredibly attentive to the needs of individual group members as well as the group as a whole. A wonderful group experience that has helped me heal regarding issues of infertility.”

“This class was an opportunity to find support and challenge myself and our relationship emotionally and physically.”

“This was absolutely a good experience for so many reasons. Kristin is a great teacher, the content is comprehensive and well-organized, and it was a fun, welcoming space.”

“The class was extremely valuable because of the content covered, interactivity, opportunity to share and talk about our unique lesbian family experience. Kristin was sensitive, diplomatic, informative, comfortable and engaging.”

This class does not cover breastfeeding, newborn care, and postpartum healing. A full Postpartum Preparation Class for LGBTQ Families is offered separately in conjunction with each Childbirth Education Class at MAIA.

APRIL 16-18, 2010
Friday April 16 - 6:00 - 9:00pm
Saturday April 17 - 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday April 18 - 10:00am - 4:00pm

$385 per family (includes $20 refundable materials fee)
Scholarships available for those in need.

Location: 5290 College Avenue, Oakland, CA
Our office is conveniently 7 short blocks from the Rockridge BART