Lamaze Birth Preparation Courses in English in Belgium

If you have the opportunity to attend a hospital “info avond”, don't miss it, as they often include a visit to the delivery room, but they are typically n Flemish or in French😕 and also be a bit cautious about the content of hospital-organized childbirth classes/info sessions. Very often, they are limited to informing you about hospital procedures and protocols, and how your birth will be medially managed. They do not provide the full picture to empower you to make your own informed choices; instead, they explain how you can be an obedient patient. On the other hand, my course is fully unbiased and evidence-based, helping you shape your birth according to your values and preferences.

Yes, the birth prep course is designed to be easily understood, even if you don't have a strong background in biology. I intentionally avoid using complex medical terms and instead use simple, straightforward language. However, I will provide information about any medical expressions you may encounter from your healthcare provider.

No. Birth itself is a natural process, similar to menstruation or children losing their milk teeth at the age of 5-6 years. Understanding the natural, physiological process of birth, what is normal and what isn’t and the risks and benefits of interventions is essential to make informed choices about birth, whether you opt for a "natural" birth or one with an epidural. This birth preparation course equips you with the knowledge to navigate the birth process and make the best choices based on your preferences.

I am not teaching you how to give birth. We all have innate knowledge of how to give birth, as our bodies and instincts know what to do. However, in today's context, birth primarily occurs behind the closed doors of hospitals, making it an unfamiliar experience for many. This course helps you navigate this unfamiliar territory and empowers you to trust in your body and your baby. It helps transform fears into healthy curiosity and to make choices which are in line with your preferences and values. Research consistently shows that childbirth education increases the likelyhood of a positive childbirth experince.

This course is particularly beneficial if you have unanswered questions or if you feel that your previous birth experience could have been different. It can also help address any fearful thoughts associated with your previous birth. Many mothers are inspired by their first birth to better prepare for the arrival of subsequent babies.

Yes, definitely! In the final chapter, I specifically focus on challenges and dedicate an entire lesson to VBAC. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of why it's crucial to keep the birth on its natural path and limit interventions as much as possible to increase your chances of a successful VBAC. The toolbox of comfort measures provided in the course will help you delay or even avoid an epidural, further increasing your chances of a happy and healthy vaginal birth!

It is of course not mandatory for your partner to follow the course, but it is advisable to do so in order to derive the most benefits. Having your partner follow the course will enable you both to have meaningful discussions about the various topics covered in each chapter. Your partner can also watch the video lessons according to his/her own schedule. Quite funny, but fathers-to-be are often bringe watching this course!

I welcome a maximum of 8 couples per group to ensure plenty of time for answering individual questions and to create a safe, friendly, and supportive environment.

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Absolutely! The LGBTQI+ community is warmly welcomed. While I often use traditional terms like "mother" and "father," please let me know if these don’t resonate with you. I’ll make every effort to use gender-neutral language to ensure everyone feels comfortable and included.

Zoom classes are recorded, so you’ll be able to review them at your convenience. For missed in-person sessions, I’ll provide you with pre-recorded videos covering the topics discussed, so you can easily catch up!

No worries at all—I’m not a native English speaker either! I use simple, easy-to-understand language and speak at a relaxed pace, so everyone can follow along comfortably. 😊

The classes are held at a private yoga studio in Kampenhout. I’ll share the exact address with you upon registration. The location is easy to access, and parking is hassle-free.Item description

Upon registration, a €100 booking fee is required, with the remaining balance due at the first session. If you cancel at least two weeks before the course starts, the booking fee will be fully refunded.

Lamaze International is one of the most recognized and respected global childbirth education organizations. Being certified as a Lamaze educator ensures that the content of the courses is evidence-based and follows the highest educational standards. The Lamaze approach focuses on preparing parents for childbirth by promoting confidence and informed decision-making. The course content is centered around the Six Healthy Birth Practices of Lamaze International, which are designed to support labor, reduce interventions, and encourage positive birth experiences for both mothers and babies.