Childbirth Education

A variety of classes are offered through La Crosse and Rochester to new or soon-to-be moms and their support person.

La Crosse

Search Classes & Events for class dates, locations and times. Registration is required. Class sizes are limited.

Interpreter services are provided for free for patients who do not speak English and are attending an in-person course in La Crosse. Call Mayo Clinic Health System at 855-565-4305 to arrange for an interpreter.

Call the birth center at 608-392-9581 to ask about class status.

Infant CPR

This free one-hour infant CPR class is intended for parents and grandparents. It includes information about the steps related to performing infant CPR and relief of choking. This is an American Heart Association noncertification class.

New Mom and Baby Group

This in-person support group is a great way to meet local moms, ask questions about lactation and newborn care, and check your baby’s weight. Education topic or speaker will vary each week. Drop in to group as it works for your schedule.

Virtual tour

Tour the Family Birth Center without leaving your home. This is a great way to see the space so you are ready for the big day.

Rochester

Childbirth education — Self-guided online offerings

Three online, self-guided courses are available for purchase. Access information from any computer or mobile device when and where you prefer. Share information with your partner and support people. Learn with videos and quizzes. Get organized with tools, planning checklists and trackers.

Once you purchase your seat to the e-class, you will receive an email with login instructions. Allow four to six hours to complete the program. Call the birth center to check for facility tour options. You will have access to the e-class for six months. Each class costs $40 (nonrefundable), payable by credit card.

Purchase courses of interest to you:

• Understanding Breastfeeding eClass
  This course covers how breastfeeding works, getting the best start, latching on, breastfeeding positions, when to feed your baby, getting enough milk, breast care and breastfeeding lifestyle.
• Understanding Your Newborn eClass
  This course covers newborn traits and behaviors, crying and comforting, feeding, diapering, bathing, nail care, dressing, newborn health and safety, and additional resources.
• Understanding Birth eClass
  This course covers pregnancy, labor, birth stories, comfort techniques, medical procedures, cesarean section birth, newborns and postpartum.

Mayo Clinic’s Perinatal Education Program in Rochester hosts a wide selection of classes both in person and via the interactive Zoom platform. A variety of class topics are offered based on availability.