Lamaze International > For Parents

For Parents

Every pregnancy is unique, with no "right way" to parenthood. As a trusted global resource, Lamaze aims to help you feel confident and supported as you make decisions throughout pregnancy, birth, and parenthood.

Take a class with a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator

There’s no better way to prepare for birth than by attending a Lamaze class led by a childbirth educator. Benefit from hands-on learning, connect with other parents, receive personalized guidance, ask questions, and practice essential techniques with hands-on support.

"My Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator was incredibly knowledgeable and introduced intimidating topics in an approachable, light-hearted way. Pregnancy and postpartum are such a sensitive time, yet parents are often bombarded with unsolicited advice, commentary, and criticism, which can put you in your head and take you out of the moment with your family. Her style was very informative without piling on expectations or pressure. It’s some real talk, shared with some real empathy. She made a lot of space for whatever you're thinking and feeling going into this life-changing experience."

-Lamaze Class Parent

*You may be able to receive insurance reimbursement or use HSA/FSA funds for Lamaze childbirth education classes. Check out a sample script for calling your insurance company and sample forms here.

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Benefit from engaging, expert-developed content anytime, anywhere! Gain insights into labor, pain management, breastfeeding/chestfeeding, and safe and healthy birth.

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Pregnancy & Birth

"My Lamaze class made me feel like an unmedicated birth isn't the rocket science that many "influencers" make it out to seem, but is still very worth investing the time and effort to learn about." - Lamaze Class Parent

Whether you are planning your first baby or preparing for another birth, our goal is to give you reliable guidance, practical tools, and expert resources to help you navigate pregnancy, childbirth, and the transition to parenthood with confidence.

Pregnancy
Preparing for Birth
Labor & Birth
After Baby Arrives
Breast/Chestfeeding

Pregnancy

Preparing for Birth

Labor is the start of an incredible journey to meet your baby. Knowing what to expect can ease some of the uncertainty and help you feel more prepared. From forming your birth plan to comfort measures and support options, learning about labor empowers you to make informed choices. Explore the following resources, designed to help confidently prepare for this stage of your journey.

Support

A birth partner plays a crucial role during labor and birth by providing emotional, physical, and informational support. Here, you'll discover resources for dads and birth partners on supporting and bonding with baby before and after birth. Explore ways to support both mom and baby, and learn how your role makes a lasting impact:

Giving Birth

Giving birth is a life-changing experience that combines excitement, wonder, and many emotions. Every journey is unique, and being informed about the process can help you feel more prepared and empowered. Explore the resources below and take steps to make this experience your own, making sure to embrace each moment as you prepare to welcome your baby.

Common Medical Interventions You Should Know About

Hospital practices often include medical interventions. To stay involved in your care, ask questions in advance and clearly communicate your birth preferences. When a routine intervention is proposed, inquire about its benefits, risks, alternatives, and whether it can be postponed or avoided. Research shows that interventions are often done for convenience rather than medical necessity. Understanding common interventions will boost your confidence in making birth decisions. Educate yourself, express your preferences beforehand, and remain engaged in all labor and birth decisions. Read more about medical interventions:

After Baby Arrives

The journey from pregnancy to parenthood is transformative. After the journey of pregnancy and birth, it’s time to step out into a whole new adventure: beginning life as new parents. Explore the resources below to help you make safe and healthy choices for you and your baby.

Breast/Chestfeeding

Breastfeeding is a unique bonding experience that provides essential nutrition and comfort for your baby. While it can take time to adjust, resources and support are available to help you feel confident and prepared. Explore our collection of articles on breastfeeding to help you navigate this journey with confidence. Whether you're just starting or seeking answers along the way, you'll find guidance on techniques, common challenges, and tips for a positive breastfeeding experience.

Shop Lamaze

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or your baby, Lamaze products are thoughtfully designed to support your parenting journey and your child’s development.

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Giving Birth With Confidence Blog

Gain insights and practical tips on pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting topics – written by childbirth educators and subject matter experts.

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Pregnancy and Birth Resources

Discover a trusted collection of tools designed to support you through pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood. Our Parent Resources bring together evidence-based guidance, practical decision-making tools, and trusted information to help you feel informed, confident, and prepared for each step of your journey.

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Learn About Lamaze

Learn more about who we are, what we do, and how we can support you during pregnancy, birth, and parenthood.

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