Frequently Asked Questions

This page provides answers to some of the most frequently asked questions I receive during telephone consultations. These answers are specific to the classes I teach, and are not intended as an official FAQ for The Bradley Method®.



Does my coach need to be my husband?

No. Although experience shows that a woman's husband makes the best coach in labor, it is not required in order to attend the classes. Sometimes a couple is unmarried, and I do my best during all classes to replace the word "husband" with "partner", "Dad", "guys", or just plain "coach". Sometimes a woman brings her sister, mother, or other supportive friend. What is important is that her coach in pregnancy be her coach in labor, and it is someone she can count on when things get tough. My only requirement is that your coach not be pregnant. If she is, she will be required to enroll in the class herself.

Why are the classes 12 weeks long?

Many other childbirth methods offer a shorter series than 12 weeks. We feel 12 weeks (or 3 months) is the perfect amount of time to absorb all of the material taught. It also gives you time to practice the relaxation techniques, which will be so vital in your labor. The exercises and nutrition information are best put to use as early in pregnancy as possible. In addition, there is so much information presented about choices in childbirth, that many couples go on to make changes in their original birth plans, or even switch birth location or care provider to a more labor-friendly one. The earlier you learn this information, the easier it is to make changes, if desired.

Do you offer a crash course?

Extreme circumstances will sometimes prohibit a couple from attending a full 12 week series. Generally, schedule conflicts do not qualify as extreme. I will do my best to help a couple attend all 12 classes, even if it is in less than 12 weeks. When this is not possible, I most often refer couples to other childbirth educators in the area that may provide a crash course. It is very important that you contact me directly to discuss your particular needs.

Do you offer make-up classes?

Yes. Make-up classes are available by coming to another series that runs on a different night. It may mean taking the make-up class before the time when you would actually have it in your series, so please bring your calendar to the first class so we can go over dates you know you'll be gone. Otherwise, if you unexpectedly miss a class, again, a make-up is most often available at some point on another night.

How big are the classes?

The average class size for me is three couples. Six couples is the maximum number I will have in one class. More than six, and we will have to divide the class up to two separate nights. If only one couple signs up for a class, that is fine - I will teach just one couple. Bradley classes are known for keeping their size small so that individual attention can be paid to each couple.

Does it matter where or with whom I am birthing?

No. We support birth in any location, with any type attendant, as long as the couple has made wise and informed choices. Throughout the series, you will see videos portraying births in hospitals, birth centers, at home, and with doctors, midwives, and even an unassisted birth.

What about doulas?

Although we feel the best coach for a woman is her life partner, or the father of her child (because this is generally the person closest to her, and the intensity of increased bonding at the moment of birth benefits the entire family), we certainly do support the role of doulas in labor. The ideal doula is one who supports the couple as a whole, and does not take the place of the primary coach unless needed. A doula can be particularly helpful in a hospital birth. If you'd like your doula to come to any or all of the classes with you, that would be wonderful! In fact, if you have any other support person that will be with you in labor that you'd like to attend classes in addition to your partner, that is fine. There is no additional fee, but the same pregnancy rule applies! (See above question re: Coaches).
In addition, you may want to visit my doula page to learn more about my own doula services.

What if I already know I want to use pain-relievers in labor?

Our classes are unapologetically pro-natural childbirth. This does not mean that you won't benefit from the classes if you do decide to use drugs in labor! The exercises and nutrition information will go a long way towards ensuring an easier labor, a healthier mom, healthier baby, and easier recovery. Plus, the couple will benefit from the communication exercises, labor rehearsals, and birth videos. There may be a difficult point in your labor when you have not yet received pain medication. At this time, the relaxation techniques and non-pharmacological comfort measures you have learned will be most beneficial.

What if we can't afford the class fee?

Although I do expect the full fee ($250.00) for the series, I offer payment arrangements for couples who need them. Typically, a $25.00 non-refundable deposit is due in advance to secure your place in class. The balance of $225.00 is due in full the first night. If that is not possible, then the balance can be broken up into payments up until the 6th class. The classes are not pro-rated, so the full fee is always due, even if you miss a class. An exception to this would be if I canceled a class myself, in which case I would work on creating a makeup class, or refund a portion of the fee. Couples should never hesitate to discuss their particular needs with me privately.

What exactly is included in the class fee?

In addition to the 24 hours of instruction over the 12 week period, you will receive an official Bradley® workbook, a lending binder of articles and research (this is for lending only and is returned at the conclusion of the series), access to an extensive lending library (including videos), nutritious snacks at each class, and unlimited phone consultations. I also sponser a baby reunion once everyone in the class has had their baby.

Are classes available for women in the "bush"?

Yes...BUT, they are not officially Bradley® classes. I do offer bush classes that are geared towards natural childbirth, but are not part of the Bradley® approved curriculum. Women seeking this option of a "fly-in" class should contact me directly. There are special requirements and fees involved in this one day course.

Do you offer refresher classes, or a shortened series for moms who have birthed before?

Refresher classes are available only to my own former students. They will need to bring back their old workbook, and the price of admission is the class snack.  They may come to any or all of the classes (an entire series is strongly recommended). Women who have taken Bradley® classes from another instructor will have to register for mine as if it were the first time. The classes are the same no matter which pregnancy this is for you.

Don't worry! Just give me a call, and in most cases you can jump into the series late. Remember that make-up classes are usually available on other nights. It is better to jump into the series late than not take the classes at all.