Do I have to be pregnant to attend group prenatal?
Yes, group prenatal is specifically designed for pregnant people. All participants are encouraged to join us for at least two sessions postpartum (after they have given birth) with their baby to continue receiving support and get linked to ongoing postpartum resources.
Can I bring someone with me to group prenatal?
Yes, please! We encourage it. We have a group that is designed to support Dads, Partners, and other primary support people. So, whoever your support person is please bring them along so that they will feel cared for too. At BYJCMP, we are invested in the whole family! If you have a doula they are also welcome to attend with you.
What’s the fine print? Will I need to pay something later?
Nope. You will never need money to attend our group prenatal sessions. Free really means free.
Do I have to attend these to secure a midwife and doula?
You do not need to attend sessions to secure your birth team. We can, however, assist you with finding a primary care provider (midwife or OBGYN) and a doula.
What if I’m giving birth at a hospital? Would these classes still apply to me?
Absolutely! Our group sessions are especially for those planning to give birth in the hospital. Group prenatals provide you with additional care. We exist to increase your contact hours with a licensed maternity care provider. We are here to help establish primary care if you haven’t already, fully understand what is happening in your body during pregnancy, breakdown any information you’ve received at your regular prenatal visits, help you manage your overall health, educate about breastfeeding and newborn care, educate you about labor, birth, and postpartum. Our goals are to make sure that you feel cared for, empowered, and uplifted during this journey.
Are these classes different from the prenatal appointments at the hospital?
Yes, they are. Most of our discussions take place in a group setting. Group prenatal care has been proven to improve health outcomes. Each individual will receive a private physical exam with our midwife Joi and our student midwife(s). During this exam you will have your blood pressure taken, have your urine dipstick read, have your abdomen measured to check for baby’s growth, have the position of your baby checked, and listen to your baby’s heartbeat. We have the option to listen with the doppler or with the fetoscope (after 24 weeks).
What is a midwife?
Midwives are licensed primary healthcare providers that specialize in women’s health (PAP smears, breast exams, etc…) pregnancy, labor, and birth. In Indiana there are two types of midwives Certified Nurse Midwives (CNM) who primarily work in the hospital setting. CNMs become nurses first and then go back to school to get a graduate degree in midwifery. Our midwife, Joi, is a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) and works in the community setting. Clients who choose CPMs for primary care often give birth in their homes. Some want the personalized care that CPMs provide and choose to have collaborative care and birth in the hospital.
What is a doula?
Doulas are non-medical support for families. They help with education, birth preparation, lactation, and other postpartum needs. We believe that every family deserves a doula for every pregnancy! Even when you choose/need an OBGYN for your care, having a midwife and doula as a part of your team will be a huge benefit. Joining us for group prenatals is a free way to have that option! *BYJCMP does not provide free birth and postpartum doula services. We can refer you to services that will help to cover the expenses of having a doula attend your birth and come to our home after your baby is born.