I am adopting, or using a gestational carrier. Can I breastfeed?
There are other Prenatal Classes offered in Town. What makes yours different?
Are you just doing this for women who have decided on a hospital birth?
Why do dads need a separate class?
Why would I need an Infant care class?
How do I make my payment, or deposit?
What are the costs of your classes?
I am adopting, or using a gestational carrier. Can I breastfeed?
ABSOLUTELY! Contrary to what you may hear, you can successfully breastfeed your adopted baby, no matter what age you get them placed at. Karin breastfed her adopted child successfully, and with our IBCLC can help guide you with what you need to get started, and maintain a successful breastfeeding relationship with your new baby!
There are other Prenatal Classes offered in Town. What makes yours different?
Bella Vida was born out of a need in Kingston for informed choice. We firmly believe that a family can not make the choice about what kind of birth is right for the, until they have a chance to learn in an environment that is evidence based, and provides equal opportunity to learn about natural childbirth as well as a medicated birth. Only moms and their support people can know what is right for them, and we will help guide you towards whatever form of birth you hope for, while also preparing you for the "what ifs" that can happen even in the best laid plans. Bella Vida also will provide you with practical information on filing for unemployment insurance, car seat safety with our own car seat specialist, and a unique breastfeeding class run facilitated by one of Kingston's few International Board Certified Lactation Consultants.
Are you just doing this for women who have decided on a hospital birth?
That's a great question. Bella Vida is supportive of "normal birth”. We provide information and education for both natural, unmedicated birth as well as information on what techniques (including medications and/or epidurals) can help you during the birth of your baby. These are your choices to make.
It is important to note that our goal is to empower families to make informed decisions that suit their individual needs (for example home OR hospital births.)
Karin is also a midwifery student on leave of absence so we really have a broad perspective on the choices available to women and their families. We hope to help families advocate for best practices – this includes assistance and education during the prenatal & postnatal periods, as well as support with breastfeeding.
Why do dads need a separate class?
Even though we as women go through all the physical and emotional changes that a pregnancy and childbirth bring, men go through a transformation as well. Most men want to support their partner, and be as involved as they can but are unsure how to best do that. Men also go through a postpartum period, and many can experience baby blues just like women do after this life changing event. OUr class will be taught by men, for men, and give expectant fathers insight on what to expect from their newborn, partner, and life in general after their new baby arrives. Dad's can talk candidly with other dads, and ask questions they may be too embarrassed to ask in front of their partners.
Why would I need an Infant care class?
If you have never been around small baby ( or your partner has not) these classes will go over everything right from the basics. Even if you are accustomed to being around small babies, often we as new parents forget all the basics we thought we knew when our own little ones arrive. Although you may have diapered and swaddled a baby in the past, your baby may be small ( or larger) or just make you more nervous in general because they are YOURS. your infant may surprise you with a rash, a funny coloured stool, or endlessly cry for no apparent reason. We will teach you the ropes to navigate through all the challenges that a new baby brings, all with up to date and evidence based information to help you make the right choices for you and your baby!
I am nervous to leave my house with my new baby. Will you come to my home to support me with infant care or breastfeeding?
Absolutely. One of the key features of Bella Vida is that we want to be there to support your new family when you need it, and where you need it. Need help with latching, but your baby is born in the winter, or you have other children at home? Our IBCLC will come to your house to help you succeed! Want some personal hands on infant care education or support with sleep, colic, et? Our team will come to you! Simply contact us and fill out our pre-visit questionnaire and we will work out a time to come to you that is convenient for your family.
What is an IBCLC?
IBCLC’s are experts in lactation and breastfeeding care. Although anyone can call themselves a “lactation consultant”, only those who have met the requirements of the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) are permitted to use the credential “International Board Certified Lactation Consultant” (IBCLC).
IBCLCs are health care professionals who have specialized knowledge and skills in breastfeeding management and care. They are a valuable part of the maternal-child health care team, and work in collaboration with other health care providers to help families meet their breastfeeding goals.
Why do I need an IBCLC?
Breastfeeding is supposed to be natural, so why would I need a Lactation Consultant? Breastfeeding is natural way for us to feed our babies, but it may not always be easy. It’s a learning curve, for both mother & baby. The good news is that even after challenging situations, it is almost always possible to get breastfeeding back on track with the right help and support. Whether you are a new mom who is worried about latching, weight gain or pain, or a seasoned mom who needs a bit of guidance, our lactation consultant will provide you with hands on support and education to start you off on the right foot!
We work with you when and where it is convenient for you - meeting you at your home or on location to suit your needs. Need a bit of advice but not a full consult? Want to share tips with other moms and learn from seasoned breastfeeding moms?
Our breastfeeding drop-ins (link this to the breastfeeding drop-in page) are run by our lactation consultant and an RN who will provide you with help you need, and give you the chance to talk to other moms while you wait. For prenatal education, you may interested in our breastfeeding class which is offered on its own or as part of our prenatal class series (link to prenatal class descriptions)
How do I make my payment, or deposit?
Payment may be made via EMT (email money transfer). For the prenatal class, a $50 deposit is required (cash or EMT) For all other classes, payment due at time of booking.
What are the costs of your classes?
Prenatal classes (6 weeks) $135.00 per couple
Breastfeeding classes (2 hours) $60.00 per couple
Sibling class (1 ½ hour) $30.00
Infant care Class (3 hours) $60.00
Dad’s class (1 ½ hours) $40.00
Lactation Drop-Ins $30 for first consult, $15 for further visits.
Lactation consults $60/hour (most consults are 1 – 1 ½ hours)