A registered nurse also leads a discussion of services available for parents and families. This class provides information on physical and emotional changes during pregnancy, nutritional needs for a healthy pregnancy, growth and development of the baby, exercise, and prenatal care. The Samaritans of St. John's Hospital sponsor a night at the hospital that allows grandmothers and grandfathers to learn about new trends in childbirth and become acquainted with the maternity suites at St. John's. This also gives grandparents the opportunity to share common concerns and discuss the impact of the new baby on their lives. Discussions include physical and emotional changes with a multiple pregnancy, nutrition, possible complications, premature newborns, breastfeeding, and coping with the demands of babies who arrive in groups.
Expectant mothers have two programs to choose from to maintain physical fitness during pregnancy.
Both programs offer group exercise that is specially designed for the months before and after birth. The Birth Center sponsors these classes in association with the YMCA and St. John's Rehabilitation Department. This program is desinged for parents desiring more information on this natural method of feeding. Topics include how to get off to a good start, problem prevention, maternal nutrition, how milk is produced, and other topics related to breastfeeding. The class will also address breastfeeding products, pumping, weaning, and returning to work.