Prenatal Classes

Pregnancy is a time with lots of questions and decisions to make. Our classes are designed to support you through your pregnancy and help you prepare for the birth of your baby and new parenthood.

We waive class fees for those enrolled in Medicaid. We can also waive or reduce fees if you have a need.

Contact Diane Sampson, prenatal education coordinator, at 434.924.9920 or des4v@virginia.edu for more information.

Breastfeeding Basics

Our lactation consultant will help prepare you for a great start with breastfeeding. Learn about positioning and helping baby with a correct latch, how your body makes milk and what to expect as your baby grows. 

To register, please fill out our form and a UVA representative will follow up with you. 

Cost: $15, includes book "Breastfeeding 101"
When: First Thursday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. No class in July.
Where: University Hospital, 8 Central Day Room

Childbirth Quick Class

This condensed one-day class provides the basics about the stages of labor, hospital practices, relaxation methods and the role of labor support. It does not include baby care information. 

To register, please fill out our form and a UVA representative will follow up with you. 

Cost: $50 per couple, includes web-enhanced book "Understanding Birth"
When: May 18, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
           June 15, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
           July 20, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
           Sept. 21, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
           Oct. 19, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
           Nov. 6, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
           Dec. 14, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: University Hospital, 8 Central Day Room

Grandparents Class

A class for expectant grandparents and family members. Prepare for the addition to your family by learning what's new in labor and delivery and baby care. We'll review basic safety tips and the latest in baby gear. We'll also discuss how to help the new family in the first year. 

To register, please fill out our form and a UVA representative will follow up with you. 

Cost: $15 
When: June 8, 10 a.m.-noon
Where: University Hospital, 8 Central Day Room

Infant and Child CPR and Safety

Learn how to help save a child's life if they are choking or have stopped breathing. We also cover baby-proofing the home and other safety issues. To register, please contact Diane Sampson at 434.924.9920 or des4v@virginia.edu.

Cost: $25 per couple, includes take-home book
When: This is a one session class available the first Saturday of every month, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Newborn Care Basics

Learn how to take care of your little one in this two hour class. We'll cover the world of newborns — their sleeping and eating patterns, the importance of attachment and how to calm a fussy baby. We'll also review baby care basics such as: 

• Baths
• Diaper changing
• When to call the doctor

This fun and interactive class will give you lots of confidence to bring your baby home. To register, please fill out our form and a UVA Medical Center representative will follow up with you.  

Cost: $15 (includes take-home materials) 
When: This is a one-session class available the last Thursday of every month through October, 6:30-8:30 p.m. In November and December, the class will meet on the third Thursday: Nov. 21 and Dec. 19.
Where: University Hospital, 8 Central Day Room

Prenatal Fitness

These classes are offered at UVA's Aquatic and Fitness Center. Because these classes are through UVA Intramural-Recreational Sports, we are unable to offer financial assistance. Get more information from Intramural-Recreational Sports or call 434.924.3791.

When: Prenatal fitness options vary by semester. Call for more information.

Preparing for Birth and Baby

Prepare for the birth of your baby by learning all about labor, delivery and how to care for yourself and baby when you go home. We will cover signs of labor, stages of the labor process, when to come to the hospital and possible interventions. Learn about relaxation techniques and the role of labor support. 

We will also tour the labor and delivery and post-partum units and discuss your stay in the hospital. One of the five evening sessions will cover baby care, typical newborn behavior and basic safety issues. Find out more about the class.

To register, please fill out our form and a UVA representative will follow up with you. 

Cost: $60 per couple, includes web-enhanced book "Understanding Birth"
When:  May 21 through June 18, Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
            July 9 through Aug. 6, Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
            Aug. 27 through Sept. 24, Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
            Oct. 8 through Nov. 5, Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
            Nov. 19 through Dec. 17, Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Where: University Hospital, 8 Central Day Room

Sibling Class

A one-session class for children ages 2 to 10 who are expecting a new sibling. Interactive play teaches about life with a new baby in the home. A tour of the postpartum unit is included. To register, please fill out our form and a UVA representative will follow up with you. 

Cost: Free
When: July 13, 10-11 a.m.
           Aug. 3, 10-11 a.m.
           Oct. 5, 10-11 a.m.
           Dec. 7, 10-11 a.m.

Where: University Hospital, 8 Central Day Room

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