Engaging childbirth Classes

Skilled Childbirth Classes & Doula Services in the Greater Sacramento area

Overwhelmed by all the information available? Need a guide?

Do you know what you need to have a safe and healthy birth in today's high-tech maternity care climate? As a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator I can help you gain the knowledge and confidence to push for the best, safest, and healthiest birth possible!

As a doula, I provide knowledge, compassion, and a calm presence during your labor.

Even though breastfeeding is natural for both mother and baby, it doesn’t always come naturally at first! As a lactation educator I help you know what to expect during the first days and weeks of nursing so you can overcome common challenges.

Group & Private Childbirth Classes

Six week small group class series

This group childbirth class is based on the Six Healthy Birth Practices of Lamaze and is comprehensive preparation for confident childbirth. Six weekly sessions for 12 hours of education & support.

DATES:  January 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th, February 1st, 8th 2024

6:00 -8:00 pm in person

COST: $300

Private Classes are available on an appointment basis and their length and content will depend on individual needs.

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Prenatal Breastfeeding Class

This 2 1/2 hour class covers the first nursing after birth, to what to expect in the early days and weeks of breastfeeding. Included is baby's innate instincts that aid breastfeeding, positoning,  hormones involved, supply and demand nature of nursing, how to tell if baby is hungry and well-fed.

 

Planning your Return to Work or School as a Breastfeeder: How to Pump for your Baby

Topics in this 2 hour class include: how to select the correct pump for your needs, how often and how long to pump while separated from your baby, up to date guidelines for storage of human milk.

Trouble Shooting Common Nursing Challenges

This course includes information on how to overcome the most common challenges early in your nursing relationship such as latch, sore nipples, and a sleepy baby. Circumstances that require the expertise of a international board certifed lactation counsultant (IBCLC) will also be discussed.

COST $65 per class

Take one or take them all!

WHEN: Private classes will be scheduled on a mutually agreed upon date and time.

Private Six Week Childbirth Classes

This series has the content of the small group series and more. Content can be customized to the individual student and access to one of Lamaze International's online classes, Safe and Healthy Birth: Six Simple Steps is included. Classes will take place in your home or in a private office setting at a time that is convenient for you.

COST: $425

WHEN: Private class sessions will be scheduled on a mutually agreed upon date and time.

Doula Support

Doula Support

Dedicated, personalized doula support for your unique birth! Book your time slot for a consult now!

Lactation Support

Lactation Support

Prenatal lactation education that teaches what to expect in the early days and weeks of breastfeeding your infant as well as how to overcome common obstacles and challenges that often occur at the beginning when learning how to nurse your baby.

 

Childbirth Education and Doula Services for Sacramento and Placer County families.

Lamaze Childbirth Education Class Series Cost: $275 a couple

Birth Doula Support Services Cost: $1800

I prepare expectant parents with the knowledge they need to navigate the childbirth process and early parenthood with confidence and the ability to trust themselves and their instincts.

Evidence-based information

Skilled Continuous Labor Support

Lactation Expertise

Maria is an amazing doula to say the least! She was so comfortable around me and made sure I knew all my options.

O.G.
Antelope, CA

What I appreciated most about Maria was her flexibility and her focus on me... Maria’s flexibility, support, and positive attitude.

Stacey D
Sacramento, CA

I had some fears due to having two difficult deliveries previously (C-section and hours of pushing). Maria helped encourage and educate me.

D.F.
Vacaville, CA

I am passionate about ensuring that families feel confident about their innate ability to give birth.

- Maria-Lena Darden LCCE CD(DONA)

To learn more about my services contact me today!

I will respond within 1 business day or less to schedule a complimentary consultation for doula services. This can be in person in a public setting or via FaceTime and will last approximately 1 hour. This meeting serves as an opportunity to discover if we are a good match and wish to work together.