Childbirth and Parenting Education
Inova is committed to helping you prepare for the birth and care of your newborn. We are pleased to offer a wide variety of childbirth and parenting education classes and maternity tours that are open to the community.
Browse and register for a maternity tour or childbirth/parenting class below or learn more about our programs at Inova Well.
Frequently Asked Questions for Childbirth Education
Maternity Tours: Online & In-Person
Giving birth is a huge event in your life and the life of your family, and we know you want to feel taken care of and safe as you welcome your new little one (or ones!). Join us for a free, up-close-and-personal tour of our Inova Birthing Centers to get a firsthand preview of our facilities, gain answers to your questions, and leave feeling assured that all of your needs will be attended to. We are here to help you get ready for the birth of your new baby!
Tour Tips and Reminders
- Tours are free, but you must register and bring your registration confirmation with you to your tour.
- Registration for an in-person tour will accommodate you and one adult. Children under the age of 18 are not permitted on the in-person maternity tours.
- We strongly recommend you schedule your tour early, around your 20th week of pregnancy, as maternity tours are in high demand and slots fill quickly. Aim to attend a maternity tour of your birthing hospital by your 32nd week of pregnancy.
Inova Women's Hospital on the Inova Fairfax Medical CampusDetails | Register
For the most current information regarding the status of visitation restrictions at Inova Fairfax Hospital,
click here.
Inova Alexandria HospitalDetails | Register
For the most current information regarding the status of visitation restrictions at Inova Alexandria Hospital,
click here.
Inova Fair Oaks HospitalDetails | Register
For the most current information regarding the status of visitation restrictions at Inova Fair Oaks Hospital,
click here.
Inova Loudoun Hospital Ladies Board Birthing InnDetails | Register
For the most current information regarding the status of visitation restrictions at Inova Loudoun Hospital,
click here.
Natural Birth Center at Inova Loudoun HospitalDetails | Register
For the most current information regarding the status of visitation restrictions at Inova Loudoun Hospital,
click here.
Childbirth Education Classes
There are lots of unknowns when it comes to giving birth and taking care of a newborn, and the extent of the information available can be stressful and confusing. We know you have lots of questions, and are looking for a reliable source for your answers. Find those answers, as well as peace of mind, by attending an Inova childbirth education class!
The Childbirth Education program at Inova Well is established both in its longevity and in its foundation in the community. There is a good chance that someone you know was an Inova baby! Ours is a tried-and-true childbirth education program that relies on research-based instruction and hands-on practice that is applicable wherever you plan to give birth.
No matter which Inova childbirth class you attend, you will receive the same great education and attention. All of our instructors have years of experience taking care of babies and new moms like you. Every instructor understands how you feel and is committed to helping you prepare for this exciting life change. And our locations throughout Northern Virginia, with times in the evenings and on the weekends, make it easy to find a class that is convenient for you.
Understanding Pregnancy eClassDetails | Register
- This interactive online class covers essential information on your baby’s development, helpful tips for a healthy pregnancy, and includes partner tips throughout. You’ll see how your baby develops with 3D animation and have access to helpful trackers and checklists that help you stay organized and healthy. Allow 2-3 hours to complete.
- eClass chapters:
- Fetal development
- Medical care
- Nutrition
- Exercise
- Discomforts
- Hazards
- Emotions
- Preview Course Now!
- Cost: $50. (You will receive 120 days of access from your first log-in)
- After you complete your registration and payment online, call 571-472-1401 and leave a voicemail stating that you have enrolled in the Understanding Pregnancy eClass. Leave your name and contact number and you will be sent an email with instructions on how to access the course.
Understanding Birth eClassDetails | Register
- This class is ideal for those expectant parents who can’t attend an on-site Childbirth Express or Childbirth Preparation class due to work schedules, time constraints, or medical conditions.
- The eight-chapter program is an interactive, web-based class that uses videos, personal birth stories, animations, activities, and games to teach all the essential information parents need to know to prepare for their birth. The childbirth eClass will help you:
- Understand pregnancy
- Learn about labor
- See how the stages of labor unfold
- Discover helpful comfort techniques
- Cost: $99. (You will receive 90 days of access from your first log-in.)
- View eClass preview: Understanding Birth
- After you complete your registration and payment online, call 571-472-1401 and leave a voicemail stating that you have enrolled in the Understanding Birth eClass. Leave your name and contact number and you will be sent an email with instructions on how to access the course.
Understanding Cesarean Birth eClassDetails | Register
- This interactive online course covers essential information about preparing for, having, and recovering from cesarean surgery, and it highlights ways partners can help throughout the process. You'll also learn what steps you can take to make your planned cesarean birth a family-centered experience, including an opportunity to create your own cesarean birth plan. Allow 2 to 3 hours to complete.
- eClass chapters:
- Cesarean Overview
- Signs of Labor
- Preparing for Surgery
- Anesthesia
- Surgical Procedure
- Recovery in the Hospital
- Recovery at Home
- Cost: $49 (You will receive 90 days of access from your first log-in)
Childbirth PreparationDetails | Register
- Childbirth Preparation is a 4-session course that provides you and a support person with essential information and support as you prepare for birth. Carried out over 12 total classroom hours, the class series reviews in detail what you need to know around your upcoming birth experience, utilizing a more slow-paced environment that allows you to build relationships with your instructor and the other participants in class.
- Class topics include:
- Pregnancy basics
- Understanding labor and birth
- Medication and anesthesia
- The basics of Cesarean birth
- The early post-partum period
- In addition to these class topics, you will have the opportunity over the class series to learn about and practice relaxation techniques and receive feedback from your instructor.
- Parents who plan to breastfeed should take a separate Breastfeeding class.
- Class cost includes 6 months exclusive access to the See What You Read website, SeeWhatYouRead.com. This online resource is a companion to the class book and provides video clips, printable charts and checklists, interactive web tools, and much more. Access PIN number is provided during class.
- Class fee includes participant and 1 adult partner.
- 4 class sessions, 3 hours each
- Cost: $249
Childbirth ExpressDetails | Register
- Childbirth Express is a compressed version of the Childbirth Preparation class, offered as one 6-hour weekend class or as two 3-hour evening classes. While this class covers the same material as Childbirth Preparation, it is conducted in a more accelerated, condensed manner, making it ideal for the busy couple.
- Class topics include:
- Pregnancy basics
- Understanding labor and birth
- Medication and anesthesia
- The basics of Cesarean birth
- The early post-partum period
- Relaxation techniques are introduced in class for partners to practice on their own at home. If you are interested in practicing relaxation techniques in class, with feedback offered from an experienced childbirth education instructor, Childbirth Preparation may be the more appropriate class for you.
- Parents who plan to breastfeed should take a separate Breastfeeding class.
- Class cost includes 6 months exclusive access to the See What You Read website, SeeWhatYouRead.com. This online resource is a companion to the class book and provides video clips, printable charts and checklist, interactive web tools and much more. Access PIN number is provided during class.
- Class fee includes participant and one adult partner. Partners are encouraged to attend.
- 1 class session, 6 hours long OR 2 class sessions, 3 hours each
- Cost: $179
HypnoBirthingDetails | Register
- A fully comprehensive childbirth class that will take you through each step of labor and birth and give you the training and tools to have a more comfortable birth. You and your birth companion will learn simple breathing, relaxation exercises and self-guided hypnosis techniques that allow you to trust your natural birthing instincts. HypnoBirthing teaches that in the absence of fear and tension, severe pain does not have to be an accompaniment of labor. HypoBirthing has proven to bring confidence, calm and comfort to the birthing mother and baby. Ideal to start this series by the beginning of your third trimester.
- Class fee includes participant, one adult partner and the cost of supplies.
- 5 class sessions, 2 1/2 hours each
- Cost: $300
From Bump to BabyDetails | Register
- A one-day seminar consisting of 90 minute express versions of our 3 most popular classes, including: Baby Care, Childbirth Preparation, and Breastfeeding. Expectant parents will be introduced to:
- Baby care basics with hands-on practice
- Information on labor, birth, and early postpartum
- How to prepare for a successful, rewarding breastfeeding experience
- You are welcome to bring food and drinks for your enjoyment during class. Lunch will not be provided.
- Class fee includes participant and 1 adult partner
- Cost: $199
Natural ChildbirthDetails | Register
- Our fun and relaxing Natural Childbirth class is used to inspire couples that birth is a normal and natural process. The most important way to approach birth is with confidence and relaxation. This can be achieved by knowing what to expect and developing the skills to move through labor. The class is a blend of lecture, discussion and relaxation. It is designed for couples interested in natural childbirth options.
- 1 class session, 6 hours long
- Cost: $100
- Class fee includes participant and one adult partner
Baby CareDetails | Register
- A must-have class for expectant parents or parents adopting a newborn. A skilled instructor introduces baby care basics and walks parents through hands-on practice. Topics include:
- What to expect from your new infant
- Holding and swaddling
- Feeding
- Bathing and diapering
- Sleeping and safety
- Parents who plan to breastfeed should take a separate breastfeeding class
- Class fee includes participant and 1 adult partner.
- 1 class session, 3 hours long
- Cost: $79
Baby Care for DadsDetails | Register
- This class is a must for all dads-to-be! A skilled instructor introduces practical baby care basics and walks dads through hands-on practice. Topics include:
- What to expect at the hospital
- Holding and swaddling
- Diapering
- Sleeping and safety
- Class fee includes 1 participant
- 1 class session, 3 hours long
- Cost: $49
Baby's First Year and Beyond – Giving Your Baby the Best StartDetails | Register
- Learn all about what to expect from your baby beyond those first few weeks. Hear about how caregivers can positively influence the growth of children to achieve academic and emotional success. Topics include:
- Feeding & Nutrition
- Common health topics
- Child Care & Early Education
- Sleep and Safety
- Parenting & Discipline
- Area support and parenting help
- Class fee includes participant, one adult partner and baby. Partners/coaches are encouraged to attend. (Class may be taken with or without baby in attendance).
- 1 class session, 3 hours long
- Cost: $79
BreastfeedingDetails | Register
- This class will prepare you for a successful and rewarding breastfeeding experience. Topics include:
- Latching
- How to hold your baby
- How often and how long to feed
- How to avoid common problems
- Class fee includes participant and 1 adult partner. Coaches are encouraged to attend.
- 1 class session, 3 hours long
- Cost : $79
GrandparentingDetails | Register
- Learn about important medical updates and safety practices that every family member and caregiver should know
- This class also discusses ways to support the new family, even from a distance
- Class fee includes 1 participant
- 1 class session, 2 hours long
- Cost: $49
Infant MassageDetails | Register
- This three class series teaches caregivers how to safely and effectively massage their infant, promoting caregiver/infant bonding, relieving baby's stress, and providing stimulation.
- Topics include:
- Benefits of infant massage
- Knowing when/when not to massage your baby
- Types of massage
- 3 class sessions, 1 hour each
- Cost: $59
- Class fee includes participant, one adult partner and baby. Partners/coaches are encouraged to attend.
Sibling ClassesDetails | Register
- An interactive class for children ages 3 to 7 who are expecting a new brother or sister. This class touches on what it means to be a big brother or sister.
- Siblings work on a craft gift for the new baby. Please bring a baby picture of big brother or sister to class.
- If big brother or sister has been exposed to a contagious disease within the last two weeks, please do not attend
- Please register under the child's name
- Class fee includes 1 child and up to 2 parents/caregivers
- 1 class session, 1 hour long
- Cost: $39 per child
Twins, Triplets and More!Details | Register
- This class is designed for the unique needs of parents expecting multiples. Class topics include:
- Identifying preterm labor
- Coping with bed rest
- What to expect during birth
- Breastfeeding multiples
- Basic care of multiples
- Information about Inova Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) services
- Intensive childbirth, breastfeeding, and baby care classes are still recommended
- Class fee includes participant and 1 adult partner
- 1 class session, 3 hours long
- Cost: $99
Prenatal and Postpartum Fitness & CPR Classes
Prenatal YogaDetails | Register
Prenatal Yoga is a safe and supportive environment within a community of mothers inspiring and sharing motherhood. This class combines elements of yoga, tai chi, and Pilates. As we work on relaxation and breathing effective techniques, we promote serenity, connection with baby, and over all well being. This fusion class will help mothers build pelvic floor muscles, maintain flexibility in muscles generally, while gently building strength preparing for easier labor, delivery and a better recovery. The mind body approach to exercise offers other physical and emotional benefits as well.
Mommy BootCampDetails | Register
Looking to tone your body after baby? Or just interested in an overall body conditioning class? Then this class is for you! This energetic, motivational, and fun Bootcamp class combines cardio drills, strength training, and core conditioning intervals. All fitness levels welcome.
Mommy & Me YogaDetails | Register
Mommy and Me Yoga helps Mothers to gently bring their bodies back to balance through breathing exercises to reduce stress, and asana practice to strengthen the core, upper body, and open the heart. Moms are welcome to bring their new babies along, as it is a safe space to care for yourself and your child. Please bring a strap, two yoga blocks, and a mat.
Infant CPRDetails | Register
- This American Heart Association Family and Friends course teaches infant (birth to 12 months) CPR skills. Obstructed airway skills are also taught.
- Designed for people who would like to learn the above skills but who do not have a need for a certification card
- Please do not bring children to class
- 2-hour course
Family and Friends CPR – Adult, Child & Infant SkillsDetails | Register
- This American Heart Association Family and Friends course teaches adult, child and infant CPR skills and obstructed airway skills.
- Designed for people who would like to learn the above skills but who do not have a need for a certification card
- Please do not bring children to class
- 3-hour course
New Moms Groups
Drop in to one of our free New Moms Groups when you are ready to meet new friends and talk about the challenges and joys of being a new mom.
An experienced maternal-infant health educator facilitates the informal discussion.
Why should you visit New Moms?
- Meet other new moms and babies
- Share your experiences with other new moms and discuss subjects of mutual concern
- Get support from an experienced maternal-infant health educator
- FREE – no fee for participating in the groups
- No registration required and free parking available
- Babies are welcome!
New Moms Schedule
- Groups meet weekly throughout the area at different times on various days. Schedule and locations listed below.
- We will only deviate from this schedule during times of severe weather or the week of a major holiday.
- Information about cancellations due to inclement weather or an area emergency can be obtained by calling the Inova Well weather hotline at 571-472-1438. Class and New Moms group cancellations do not always follow local public school closings.
- Due to holidays, New Moms group will NOT meet during the following timeframes:
- 2019 Independence Day: Thursday, July 4, 2019
- 2019 week of Thanksgiving: Monday, November 25, 2019 – Friday, November 29, 2019
- 2019/2020 week of Christmas and New Year: Monday, December 23, 2019 – Friday, January 3, 2020
Inova New Moms Return to Work Group
Every 2nd Saturday
10 to 11:30 a.m.
New location beginning in 2019!
Inova Joan and Russell Hitt Center for Healthy Living
8100 Innovation Park Drive
Lower Level, Main Studio
Fairfax, VA 22031
Inova New Moms Groups – serving the Alexandria area
Tuesdays, 12 noon to 1:30 p.m.
Inova HealthPlex-Franconia/Springfield
6355 Walker Lane
Alexandria, VA 22310
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Park in patient parking or use the free valet service at the main entrance. Group meets in classroom 1-105. Enter through main entrance, go down the hall to the right of the elevators, first room on the right. Please note this space has a hard surface floor. Be sure to bring a blanket or mat if you wish to sit on the floor with your baby.
Inova New Moms Group – serving the Fairfax area
Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Inova Joan and Russell Hitt Center for Healthy Living
8100 Innovation Park Drive
Lower Level, Main Studio
Fairfax, VA 22031
Inova New Moms Group – serving the Fair Oaks area
Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Inova Fair Oaks Hospital Campus
Cancer Center Building
3580 Joseph Siewick Drive
Conference Room C
Fairfax, VA 22033
Claiming Your Childbirth Education Class With Your Insurance Company
Please note: Inova Well does not submit to insurance companies for coverage of or reimbursement for our Childbirth Education classes. As there are no medical, procedure, diagnosis, CPT, or ICD codes associated with our classes, we cannot directly bill insurance.
Inova Well is able to provide the following information:
- Your confirmation of class payment (which you receive via email upon registration),
- Our Inova Health System tax ID #, and/or
- Confirmation of your attendance in a class.
To request reimbursement, you would be responsible for submitting the appropriate documents directly to your insurance company following the conclusion of the class. We strongly recommend that you call your insurance company well in advance of your class date and inquire about out what information, instructor qualifications, and/or documentation is necessary, as each insurance company maintains different requirements. Waiting until after the class is complete may delay our ability to provide the information and documentation you need.