There's a moment that sticks with Christina Lynch, a labor and delivery registered nurse at Intermountain Health’s St. George Regional Hospital. A mom came into one of her birth classes, still holding onto the weight of her first delivery.
"I just didn't know what was happening. I didn't know what to ask or how to speak up," the mom told her.
By the end of the class – after walking through the birth process, talking about choices, and doing an activity where parents name what matters most to them – the same woman had tears in her eyes as she told Christina, "This is so empowering. Now I know how to advocate for myself."
This transformation isn't rare. It's exactly why birth education matters so much.
When plans change, preparation matters
Every birth story is different, and each one can still be healthy and positive. What makes the difference is preparation and having the tools to handle whatever direction your labor takes.
"There's so much that can happen during labor and delivery," says Christina. "When people are educated ahead of time, they're not afraid when plans shift. They feel confident making decisions in the moment."
Whether you're planning a natural birth or know you want an epidural, whether this is your first baby or your fourth, knowledge gives you power. It transforms uncertainty into confidence and fear into excitement.
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Who takes birth classes
Birth education isn't just for first-time parents. Christina sees second- and third-time parents who want a different experience. Partners who want to be helpful but aren't sure how. Families who've had traumatic deliveries and want to feel more prepared this time.
"My partner knew exactly how to help me," is something Christina hears often after classes.
Partners discover they don't have to feel helpless. They learn practical skills like applying counter pressure during contractions or advocating for mom's needs, like requesting a wireless monitor so she can move freely.
What the classes cover
At Intermountain Health, every class is taught by experienced registered nurses, many of whom work directly in labor and delivery. So, you can feel confident you're learning from someone who's been in the room and knows how to support you.
The comprehensive Childbirth Preparation Series covers everything you need to know:
Before labor begins:
- When to call your doctor and what to pack
- Safe exercises, nutrition, and managing discomforts
- Understanding your options for pain management
During labor and delivery:
- Recognizing labor signs and when to head to the hospital
- Breathing techniques, positions, and massage for coping
- How interventions like epidurals, inductions, and C-sections work
- Creating birth plans and communicating with your care team
After your baby arrives:
- Newborn care basics that build your confidence
- Breastfeeding fundamentals and troubleshooting
- Taking care of yourself in those early weeks
Classes include hands-on practice with labor positions, breathing techniques, and tools like birthing balls, so when the moment comes, your body (and your partner) will remember what to do.
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Support for your whole family
Your birth experience affects everyone who loves you. That's why Intermountain Health offers specialized classes like:
- Understanding Grandparenting helps grandparents learn current safety guidelines so they can confidently support your growing family
- Understanding Fatherhood gives partners practical guidance and emotional preparation for this life-changing transition
- Super Siblings makes big brothers and sisters excited about meeting their new baby
Together, these classes make sure the people closest to you feel prepared, supported, and ready to welcome your baby right alongside you.
Options that work for your life
Southwest Utah families come from all over – Beaver, Nevada, and beyond. That's why classes are available in multiple formats:
In-person classes offer hands-on practice and face-to-face support, perfect for learning coping techniques and using birth tools.
Virtual live classes bring interactive sessions to families who live far away, with Spanish-language options available.
Self-paced e-classes give maximum flexibility for busy schedules, letting you learn on your own timeline.
Birth education that fits your budget
Quality birth education shouldn't break your budget. Intermountain has kept costs low:
- Six-week series: $90
- Saturday condensed class: $60
- Hypnobirthing (focused on unmedicated coping techniques): $95
Many families use HSA or FSA funds, and some insurance plans offer reimbursement. Your investment includes printed materials and expert instruction.
"We keep our prices low to make them more accessible to everyone in our community," says Jodie Jamison, director of obstetrics and neonatal clinical operations for Intermountain Health. "And we're working toward making them free."
Simply Birth orientation: learn more about your options
If you’re considering a low-intervention or unmedicated birth, the Simply Birth Program may be the right fit for you. This orientation class introduces the program and helps you decide if it matches your goals for birth.
Simply Birth offers the best of both worlds: the freedom and comfort of a home-like setting, with the peace of mind that comes from having medical support close by.
“Families are asking for more natural options,” says Christina Lynch, RN. “Simply Birth lets us meet them where they are and support them safely.”
During this session, you’ll learn about:
- The Simply Birth philosophy and environment
- The application and approval process
- Required childbirth education classes
- Early discharge options after delivery
By the end of orientation, you’ll understand how the program works, what’s required to participate, and whether Simply Birth is the right path for your family.
Be informed. Be empowered. Be ready.
We’ll help you feel ready for the choices, questions, and emotions that come with birth. You’ll walk into the delivery room knowing what to expect, what to ask, and how to speak up for yourself and your baby.
Whether you’re preparing for your very first delivery or adding another little one to your family, Intermountain Healthcare’s birth classes are here to guide you. Our nurses walk alongside you with clear information, hands-on practice, and encouragement, helping you feel grounded, informed, and ready to welcome your baby with confidence.
Find the class that fits your family and your schedule: intermountainhealthcare.org/classes-events