Pregnancy and Childbirth Education Classes
At Ohio State, our expert obstetrics and gynecology team provides resources and classes for pregnancy and childbirth education.
What pregnancy and childbirth education resources and classes does Ohio State offer?
At The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, we start caring for parents long before their babies arrive. And because it’s never too soon to start preparing for a healthy pregnancy, the downloadable guides and information we have available will help protect the health of both you and your baby.
Our obstetrics and gynecology experts also offer in-person and virtual classes that cover a variety of topics to prepare you for labor, birth and caring for your baby. Whether this is your first baby or you’re adding another to your growing family, we’re here to help – before, during and after your pregnancy.
Pregnancy and childbirth education guides
These downloadable guides can be important resources to help you know what to expect when delivering your baby at the new Ohio State Maternity Center and how to care for yourself and baby postpartum.
- Having Your Baby at Ohio State (English version)
- Caring for You During Pregnancy (English version)
- Caring for You After Delivery (English version)
- Breastfeeding: Getting Started (English version)
Important phone numbers for pregnancy
If you believe you’re in labor or for non-emergency questions during pregnancy, contact your provider at the appropriate number.
- General Ob/Gyn physicians, midwives and nurse practitioners in Dublin, Gahanna, Kenny Road, New Albany, Upper Arlington and Worthington: 614-293-3069
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine physicians in Dublin, East and Upper Arlington: 614-293-2222
- General Ob/Gyn and Maternal-Fetal Medicine physicians at McCampbell Hall: 614-293-8045
- Physicians at Total Health and Wellness East: 614-685-9994
- Physicians at Family Practice Northwood/High: 614-293-2700
Emergencies during pregnancy
If you’re 16 or more weeks pregnant and experiencing a pregnancy-related health concern that requires immediate attention, Ohio State's Obstetric Emergency Department (OB-ED) is open 24/7 and can be found on the 23rd floor of the new University Hospital.
For life-threatening or non-pregnancy-related emergencies, call 911 or visit our General Emergency Departments at University Hospital or East Hospital.
Pregnancy and childbirth classes at Ohio State
We offer a variety of in-person and online classes to prepare you for labor, birth and caring for your new baby.
Class schedules are subject to change. All in-person classes held at Ohio State Outpatient Care Upper Arlington, 1800 Zollinger Rd., Room 1400, Columbus, OH 43221.
One class registration includes two adult participants. For expecting parents, we recommend taking classes in the third trimester. For additional class information, see the FAQ section below. Email Kori.Fenner@osumc.edu for more information.
Pregnancy care in-person classes
One class registration includes two adult participants. For expecting parents, we recommend taking classes in the third trimester. For additional class information, see the FAQ section below.
Questions about in-person classes? Email Kori.Fenner@osumc.edu
This class will help prepare you and your partner/labor support person for the events surrounding labor and birth. It features a comprehensive overview of the birth process, including signs and stages of labor, relaxation and breathing techniques, pain management options, and the birthing experience.
If you are pregnant with more than one baby, additional online education will be provided following in-person class.
Class details
Length: 7.5 hours (You will be given a break for lunch)
Participants: 8
Cost: $80
Dates:
- March 7, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- March 21, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- March 22, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- April 4, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- April 11, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- April 18, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Childbirth Education Express class is a shortened version of our Full-Day Childbirth Education class, designed to accommodate parents with busy schedules or those who want to learn the very basics of childbirth. Learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of labor, when to go to the hospital and what to expect when you’re at the hospital. Information on breathing and relaxation provided, but not discussed.
This is also a great refresher course for those who have already had a baby!
If you are pregnant with more than one baby, additional online education will be provided following in-person class.
Class details
Length: 3 hours
Participants: 8
Cost: $40
Dates:
- March 9, 6-9 p.m.
- March 30, 6-9 p.m.
- April 13, 6-9 p.m.
- April 27, 6-9 p.m.
This class is intended for patients of our midwives, but can be attended by anyone. It will provide information and help prepare you and your partner/support person for the natural process of labor and birth. You will participate in a comprehensive overview of the birth process including signs and stages of labor, relaxation and breathing techniques, nonpharmacologic comfort methods, pain management options, reasons for a cesarean section, and the overall birthing experience.
If you are pregnant with more than one baby, additional online education will be provided following in-person class.
Class details
Length: 7 hours
Participants: 8
Cost: $80
Dates:
- March 15, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- March 29, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- April 12, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- April 26, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
This class is designed by pelvic floor physical therapists to help you prepare your body and pelvic floor for labor and delivery. We’ll teach positioning techniques for comfort and ways to relax and lengthen the pelvic floor during labor, breathing techniques to support your pelvic floor and perineal stretching techniques that can help support your pelvic muscle readiness for birth. This course will give you confidence and practical tools for a smoother, more positive birth experience.
Class details
Length: 1 hour
Participants: 10
Cost: $20
Location: Ohio State Outpatient Care Gahanna, 920 N. Hamilton Rd., Gahanna, OH 43230
Dates
- March 17, 6 p.m.
- April 14, 6 p.m.
- May 12, 6 p.m.
- June 9, 6 p.m.
Having a baby is hard, and many parents struggle with taking care of themselves, their babies and the rest of their family. ROSE will teach you skills to help you with stress, manage your relationships and plan for your future, especially once your baby is here. ROSE includes four group classes during pregnancy that cover topics such as mood changes, relationships, communication and stress management. An optional one-on-one appointment with a perinatal mental health provider is available soon after delivery. ROSE is an evidenced-based intervention that has been shown to significantly reduce cases of postpartum depression and anxiety.
Class details
Length: Four classes, 90 minutes each. Sign up for in-person or virtual class.
Participants: 10
Cost: Course provided at no cost. Donations help us continue to offer it to new moms. Please consider donating to the Women's Behavioral Health Fund to support our mission. Donate here.
Virtual 4-class series March:
- March 3, Noon-1:30 p.m.
- March 10, Noon-1:30 p.m.
- March 17, Noon-1:30 p.m.
- March 24, Noon-1:30 p.m.
Virtual 4-class series April:
- April 7, 8-9:30 a.m.
- April 14, 8-9:30 a.m.
- April 21, 8-9:30 a.m.
- April 28, 8-9:30 a.m.
Virtual 4-class series April:
- April 8, 3:30-5 p.m.
- April 15, 3:30-5 p.m.
- April 22, 3:30-5 p.m.
- April 29, 3:30-5 p.m.
Newborn care in-person classes
One class registration includes two adult participants. For expecting parents, we recommend taking classes in the third trimester. For additional class information, see the FAQ section below.
Questions about in-person classes? Email Kori.Fenner@osumc.edu
This class will give you more confidence in caring for your newborn (or new grandchild). You’ll learn (or re-learn) about diapering, bathing, choosing toys and how to create a safe environment for your newborn.
If you are pregnant with more than one baby, additional online education will be provided following in-person class.
Class details
Class length: 3 hours
Participants: 8
Cost: $40
Dates:
- March 8, 9 a.m.-Noon
- March 8, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
- March 10, 6-9 p.m.
- March 23, 6-9 p.m.
- March 26, 6-9 p.m.
- April 7, 6-9 p.m.
- April 14, 6-9 p.m.
- April 19, Noon-3 p.m.
This class will help you learn about the basics of feeding your baby the best nutrition. You and your partner/support person will talk with lactation consultants about the what, where, when, why and how of breastfeeding.
Class details
Length: 2.5 hours
Participants: 8
Cost: $40
Dates:
- March 11, 6-8:30 p.m.
- March 31, 6-8:30 p.m.
- April 6, 6-8:30 p.m.
- April 21, 6-8:30 p.m.
This class is intended for expectant or new parents wanting to learn about breast pumping. Hands-on learning will be provided in a group setting and led by an IBCLC RN. Sample pumps will be used for demonstration. You don't need to bring your own pump.
Class details
Length: 1.5 hours
Participants: 8
Cost: Free
Dates:
- March 2, 5:30-7 p.m.
- March 16, 2:30-4 p.m.
- April 6, 2:30-4 p.m.
- April 20, 5:30-7 p.m.
This class will teach life-saving cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and how to help a choking infant and child.
Note: This course does not offer a certification card.
Class details
Length: 2 hours
Participants: 8
Cost: $40
Dates:
- March 3, 6-8 p.m.
- March 12, 6-8 p.m.
- March 18, 6-8 p.m.
- March 25, 6-8 p.m.
- April 2, 6-8 p.m.
- April 23, 6-8 p.m.
- April 30, 6-8 p.m.
In this class, grandparents will learn all of the latest information and evidence-based research behind the changes in infant care practices so they can be an invaluable support to the new parents! Topics include safe sleep and SIDS prevention, infant nutrition recommendations, basic baby care and how to offer assistance to the new family.
Class details
Length: 2 hours
Participants: 8
Cost: $20
Dates:
- March 19, 6-8 p.m.
- April 16, 6-8 p.m.
Please note: You do not have to be a patient of the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center to take this class.
Pregnancy care online classes
These online classes provide the knowledge, skills and confidence you need as you prepare for the most exciting and joyful, yet overwhelming, time in your life. The interactive content includes real stories from parents and quizzes to test your knowledge. These recorded classes can be taken at your pace and accessed for nine months.
Once you purchase an online class, we’ll email a link with instructions on how to access your class. Please allow 2-3 business days to receive your link.
Questions? Email Kori.Fenner@osumc.edu. We hope you will join us virtually!
- PC or Mac (internet access required; high-speed recommended)
- Go at your own pace
- Features engaging videos, personal birth stories, 3D animations, games and activities
Class details
Cost: $80*
The content covered in the online class is the same as the in-person class.
For more information, contact Kori.Fenner@osumc.edu
*Please note, Medicaid does not cover the fee for online education classes
Through a variety of videos, animations, interactive activities and read-along audio, you’ll learn all about pregnancy, labor & delivery, breastfeeding, and the postpartum period when you’re expecting multiples. In this extensive 5-hour course, you’ll learn about the anatomy of multiples, common discomforts and complications, vaginal and cesarean birth, comfort techniques, what to expect if babies need to stay in the NICU, physical and emotional changes after birth, how to keep your babies safe, and so much more!
Class details
Cost: $50*
Access to course: 9 months
For more information, contact Kori.Fenner@osumc.edu
*Please note, Medicaid does not cover the fee for online education classes.
This interactive three-hour online class covers pregnancy, birth and babies from a father’s perspective! Topics include: feelings about having a baby, how to be involved during the pregnancy and supportive during labor, how to help with breastfeeding, the postpartum dad role and self-care, and parenting truths.
Class details
Cost: $40*
Access to course: 9 months.
Take this class at your own pace and on your own time.
For more information, contact Kori.Fenner@osumc.edu
* Please note, Medicaid does not cover the fee for online education classes.
Newborn care online classes
In this online course, you’ll learn about newborn traits and behaviors, crying patterns and comfort techniques, hunger cues and breastfeeding basics, diapering and bathing, and newborn health and safety.
Also available in Spanish.
Class details
Cost: $40*
The content covered in the online class is the same as the in-person class.
For more information, contact Kori.Fenner@osumc.edu
*Please note, Medicaid does not cover the fee for online education classes
In this online course, you’ll learn how breastfeeding works, how to breastfeed, newborn hunger cues and feeding patterns and how to embrace your new breastfeeding lifestyle.
Also available in Spanish.
Class details
Cost: $40*
The content covered in the online class is the same as the in-person class.
For more information, contact Kori.Fenner@osumc.edu
*Please note, Medicaid does not cover the fee for online education classes.
Growing your family? Help your child become a super sibling! This online sibling preparation class teaches you how to support your child (or children) as they grow into their role of big brother or sister. You will learn how to answer tough questions, ways to help your child feel involved, how to reduce jealousy and more. Plus, to encourage your sibling-to-be, there are fun lessons to do together, complete with kid-friendly video clips, coloring pages and activities. The class takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete and is recommended for ages 3-7.
Class details
Cost: $40*
Access to course: 9 months
For more information, contact Kori.Fenner@osumc.edu
*Please note, Medicaid does not cover the fee for online education classes.
FAQs
You can register for classes online. Within the class description, a link is provided to register and pay for classes. Be sure to carefully select the day and time you wish to attend.
If you need to cancel or reschedule, please do so at least 48 hours before your scheduled class by emailing Kori.Fenner@osumc.edu.
Class fees are collected online at the time you register for a class. Credit or debit card payment is accepted, as well as Health Savings Account cards. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover. If you need to cancel, please cancel at least 48 hours before your scheduled class to receive a full refund. Email Kori.Fenner@osumc.edu
For cancellations within 48 hours of class or if you do not show up for class, refunds will not be provided.
Programs and services
We want to give every parent, and even those still preparing for a pregnancy, the support and services they need to have a healthy pregnancy, deliver a healthy baby and thrive as a new parent in those first few years.
And because every pregnancy is different and every family has different needs, we offer a range of programs and services to protect your health and boost your confidence every step of the way.