– Childbirth Education –
-ICEA: International Childbirth Education Association Family Centered Care-
What is ICEA? International Childbirth Education Association, is based on the ideas and concepts of British obstetrician, Dr. Grantly Dick-Read. In 1932, Dr. Dick-Read introduced idea’s emphasizing overcoming women’s fear of giving birth. 15 years later, he wrote his now very well known book, Childbirth Without Fear, in which he emphasizes the possibility of overcoming fear in childbirth, as well as, the advantages of a physiologically normal childbirth. ICEA is an organization which grew on this foundation. ICEA is a cooperative organization of parents and professionals.
What do they believe? ICEA is a non-profit organization with it’s philosophy based on family centered care. Family centered care is based on the idea that with the growth of the family there will be different responsibilities to each other and to society. ICEA promotes partnership with medicine. It is designed to include all birth practitioners and places as long as they support mothers in the freedom to make their own choices based on knowledge.
Is it Right For me? If you are someone who is open to learning many different tools for different types of birth and values the flexibility in class content, this may be the class for you. ICEA teachers can vary widely in their knowledge of alternatives in their area and they do not promote any particular method in preparation for labor. The teachers use their own discretion in the content of the classes, so they can tailor the classes to the individual needs of their students. Be sure to contact the instructor to get her personal focuses in the class to help make the best decision for your needs. They also offer perinatal fitness, lactation and newborn classes.
How Do I Find a Class? There are many ICEA classes available in your area.