Online Prenatal Classes Offer Flexibility for Expectant Moms

The program is designed to help expectant parents prepare for the birth of their baby. It’s an interactive, web-based program that includes animated illustrations, videos and voice-overs and can be viewed on a PC, Mac or mobile devices.

Expectant mother Rene Kekoolani, 23, decided to enroll because of the flexibility an online class offered her and her spouse. She enrolled at the end of February and has already completed the first five chapters.

“My husband and I would have enrolled in an actual attendance class, but there were very few options of when they offer the class and none of the times worked with our busy schedules,” said Kekoolani. “I like that I can do the class when I have free time. I also like that I can jump to different sections if I feel the need to.”

It has been one month since the program went live, and 20 people have already enrolled. Users pay $60 and are given an access code that lasts 12 weeks. The online program consists of an introduction, eight chapters, and a glossary as well as other interactive resources designed to instruct and prepare parents.

Alicia Gale, prenatal supervisor for Intermountain’s three hospitals in Utah County, believes online programs like this are where much of the younger generation is going. “It’s so flexible. You can go at your own pace and self-learn in the privacy of your own home,” said Gale.

For mothers on bedrest or those who work at night when most classes are offered, an online course can be a convenient way to prepare for the birth their baby with accurate educational material. Users of the online course are encouraged to take any questions they have during the course to their healthcare provider for more personalized information.

To register or for more information, visit the online childbirth class portal.