Childbirth and newborn care classes: When and what to expect
Welcoming a baby into the world marks the beginning of a pivotal new chapter in life — one filled with joy, excitement and a few surprises along the way. While parenthood is incredibly rewarding, those first days (and nights) can be challenging. From sleepless nights to unexpected hurdles, having the right knowledge and preparation can make all the difference.
Childbirth and newborn care classes at HCA Florida Healthcare provide the guidance, skills and hands-on experience to help you navigate labor, delivery and caring for your baby with confidence.
Why take childbirth and newborn care classes?
Preparation is key in any major life event, and welcoming a child is no exception. These classes offer practical knowledge and hands-on learning to help you feel ready for what’s ahead.
Childbirth classes offer a comprehensive look at labor, pain management techniques and postpartum recovery. They also offer parenting tips to ease the transition to life with a newborn.
Newborn care classes generally focus on what to expect after birth, covering everything from the first few hours to the first 12 months. Parents gain insights into physical and emotional changes, healthy habits and important signs to watch for.
Whether you're preparing for your first child or refreshing your skills, these classes provide a solid foundation for navigating one of life’s most meaningful experiences.
When is the best time to take childbirth and newborn care classes?
In general, the best time to begin childbirth preparation is during the third trimester — typically between 28 and 36 weeks — when your due date is approaching, but you still have time to practice what you’ve learned.
Some parents prefer to take newborn care and infant CPR classes earlier in pregnancy, allowing time to review the material at their own pace.
Okay, I’ve signed up for classes. What can I expect?
At HCA Florida Healthcare, you'll be welcomed into a supportive environment led by experienced professionals. Each session blends instruction with hands-on practice and discussion, helping you gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Topics covered include:
- Stages of labor and delivery
- Breathing and comfort techniques for pain management
- Newborn care essentials, including diapering, feeding, and soothing
- Safe sleep practices and infant CPR
Partners are encouraged to attend, and many classes offer virtual options so you can participate from the comfort of home.
As you prepare for childbirth, you might also consider scheduling a tour of the maternity unit. Many hospitals offer labor and delivery tours to help parents familiarize themselves with the facility before birth. Find out more about the labor and delivery tours at HCA Florida Healthcare.
Where can I find more information about these classes?
Bringing a baby into the world is an incredible journey, and having the right support makes all the difference. As one of the largest healthcare providers in the state, HCA Florida Healthcare welcomed more than 32,000 newborns last year — that’s a birth every 17 minutes.
Your provider is your trusted resource throughout pregnancy and beyond. From prenatal vitamins to labor and delivery care, our expert OB/GYNs and midwives are here to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way.
Just as every baby is unique, so is every delivery. At HCA Florida Healthcare, we are committed to providing a personalized birthing experience that begins long before labor and continues well after your baby’s arrival.
Looking for care? Find an OB/GYN near you.