Preparation that meets you where you are

You may have known for months that you would be having a cesarean, or you may have only recently learned that this is the recommended plan. You might feel relieved, excited, nervous, disappointed—or several things at once. There is room for all of those feelings here. Whether this is your first baby or you’ve given birth before, we’ll take the time to understand your questions, priorities, and circumstances so your preparation feels relevant to you.

What we’ll cover

Preparing emotionally for your birth

Talk through your feelings and expectations in a supportive space. We’ll explore ways to manage uncertainty, communicate your preferences, and help you feel connected to your baby’s birth.

Getting ready for surgery

Learn what to expect leading up to your scheduled cesarean, what to pack, and which questions to ask your care team. We’ll also discuss how your partner or support person can prepare and be involved.

Understanding the cesarean birth process

We’ll walk through the experience from arriving at the hospital to meeting your baby, including what you may see, hear, and feel. We’ll discuss preferences you can explore with your care team, such as skin-to-skin and other ways to make your birth feel personal, depending on your circumstances and hospital practices.

Planning for recovery

Prepare for the early days in hospital and at home. We’ll discuss what recovery can look like, practical ways to make everyday tasks more manageable, and how to organize help so you have time to rest and heal.

Caring for your newborn

For families welcoming their first baby, we’ll cover newborn care essentials with recovery in mind. We’ll explore how partners and support people can help with caring for, comforting, and bringing your baby to you.

Preparing for infant feeding

Learn about getting feeding started after a cesarean, including comfortable breastfeeding or chestfeeding positions, bottle-feeding options, and where to turn for additional support.

Your family, your questions, your class

Because this is a private session, we can adjust the focus to what you need most.

Welcoming your first baby?
We can spend more time on newborn care, feeding, and preparing for those first days together.

Preparing for another baby?
We can focus on recovery with an older child at home, planning practical support, and introducing your child to their new sibling.

Having another cesarean?
We can build on what you already know, address questions from your previous experience, and explore your priorities for this birth.

You don’t need to arrive with everything figured out. Your questions are part of what shapes the session.

What’s included

• A three-hour private class, in your home or over Zoom.
• Teaching tailored to your experience, questions, and family circumstances.
• Time to discuss how your partner or support person can help.
• A take-home handout with a hospital packing list, surgery preparation, recovery information, and additional resources.

Meet your educators

Your session will be taught by Bronwyn, Kathy, or Aubrey, experienced doulas who have supported families through planned cesarean births. We bring practical experience, compassionate support, and time for the questions that matter to you. Our goal is to help you understand your options, prepare for conversations with your care team, and feel supported as you welcome your baby.

Frequently asked questions

Do I also need to take a regular prenatal class?

This session can replace our Condensed or Full Prenatal class for families having a planned cesarean. We cover birth preparation, recovery, infant feeding, and newborn care, with the focus adjusted to your needs.

Is this class helpful if I’ve already had a cesarean?

Yes. We can build on your previous experience and focus on what feels most useful this time, including recovery while parenting an older child, sibling introductions, and questions or preferences for your upcoming birth.

I’ve only just found out I need a scheduled cesarean. Can I still book?

You’re welcome to reach out as soon as you learn that you’ll be having a planned cesarean. If your birth is coming up soon, please look at the booking link to see if there is a time option available. If there is not, please contact us so we can discuss available appointment options.

Is the class offered online or in person?

You can choose a private session in your home or over Zoom. Both options give you time to ask questions and receive preparation tailored to your family.

Will I receive information to refer to afterward?

Yes. You’ll receive a handout that includes a hospital packing list, surgery preparation, recovery information, and more, so you can revisit what we’ve discussed as your birth approaches.

How much does the class cost?

You can view current pricing and available appointment options through our booking link.

Feel more prepared for your baby’s birth

Make time for your questions, understand what to expect, and plan for the support you’ll need during recovery. We’re here to help you prepare for your planned cesarean with practical information and care that centres your family.