The birth of your baby adds a brand new dimension to your life. That’s why St. Mary's Hospital offers special classes to help you prepare for the changes a new baby brings, for the special care you and your baby will need, and for your special time together.
These programs are offered prenatally to all mothers planning to deliver at St. Mary's. Fathers or other support persons are encouraged to attend the classes too. Registration is limited, so please register early.
For your health and the health of others, please do not come if you, your partner, guest or child are sick. We ask that you reschedule so as not to expose other pregnant women to your illness. You should reschedule AND consult your doctor if, during the past 24 hours, any one has had a temperature over 100 PLUS one of these symptoms: cough, sore throat, chills, body aches, headache or a runny/stuffy nose.
Tours
Sibling Obstetric Tours
Big brothers and big sisters are given a special tour of labor, delivery and postpartum areas. Tours are offered twice a month on Tuesday evenings and reservations are required. Call St. Mary's Hospital at (608) 258-5065 to register. Tour limited to 10 siblings. Meet at St. Mary's Hospital, Level 1 Info Desk.
Hospital Obstetric Tours
One-hour tours of the hospital obstetrics and post-partum units are available for new and expectant parents. Tours are held on Sundays at 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 p.m. except for these holiday weekends: New Years, Easter, Mother's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Reservations are required. Register online or call (608) 258-5065.
Tours meet at St. Mary's Hospital, Level 1 Info Desk. If you're not able to attend your scheduled tour, please call (608) 258-5065 Mon-Fri 8:30-4:30 p.m. to reschedule.
To inquire about tours in Spanish, please call (608) 258-5666.
Free Classes - Meet at St. Mary's Hospital, Level 1 Info Desk.
Caring for Your Newborn
Learn to recognize typical physical and behavioral characteristics of a new baby. You'll also learn infant feeding, cord care, diapering, and measures you can take for your baby's health and safety. Available twice per month. Register online or call St. Mary's Hospital at (608) 258-5065.
Breastfeeding
This class discusses anatomy and the mechanics of breastfeeding, prenatal breast care, and nutrition for those planning to breastfeed or who are in the decision-making stage. Learn solutions to common breastfeeding problems and community resources that are available. Available twice per month. Register online or call St. Mary's Hospital at (608) 258-5065.
Postpartum Care
This class focuses on the post-delivery/discharge period. Topics include physical changes, possible emotional changes for you and your family, the first few days at home, exercise, and nutritional needs. Available once per month. Register online or call St. Mary's Hospital at (608) 258-5065.
Stork's Nest
Young mothers-to-be who are enrolled in this free program and attend prenatal education classes will earn gift baskets filled with maternity and baby necessities. Learn more about the Stork's Nest program.
Paid Classes
Childbirth Education
Certified, experienced childbirth instructors will teach you and your support person ways to enhance your comfort and decision-making during labor and birth. The class covers relaxation and breathing methods, labor support skills, signs and stages of labor, labor variations and complications, pain management techniques and medication options for a healthy and joyous birth experience. Call Dean & St. Mary's Health Works at (608) 827-4424 or (800) 368-5596 for class dates and times, and to register. View current Health Works class schedule. (1-day Saturday class.) Fee for classes.
Infant and Child CPR
A variety of classes at Dean & St. Mary's Health Works teach cardiopulmonary resuscitation techniques for parents and others who take care of infants and children. Call Dean & St. Mary's Health Works at (608) 827-4424 or (800) 368-5596. View current Health Works class schedule. Fee for classes.
Prenatal Yoga
Prenatal yoga uses the same concept of yoga but is designed to assist expectant mothers. This class will focus on areas of the body that need stretching and strengthening during pregnancy. Please bring your own yoga mat to class. Physician consent is required. Please call Health Works at (608) 827-4424 to receive appropriate forms. View current Health Works class schedule. Fee for classes.