Childbirth Education programs?

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I'm getting ready to start school to become a CNM but in the meantime I would like to get some certifications so I can offer private education courses on the side while I'm busy with school. Does anyone know which program is best recommended? I've looked at Lamaze and Childbirth International - Lamaze has a fast-track for midwifery students but CBI seems more flexible since there are no workshops to attend. Anyone have any input about one over the other (or other educator programs I haven't mentioned?)?

Thanks!!

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Specializes in Nurse Leader specializing in Labor & Delivery.

There's also CAPPA and ICEA. Also, Bradley, which is going to be geared more towards the natural parents, which would be good for an aspiring midwife. Oh, and hypnobirthing.

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Specializes in Childbirth Educator, Birth Doula.

Hi! You're further along than I am (depending on how you look at it, I suppose) but I'm on the same track- starting my ADN this fall! But I recently trained with BirthWorks International and loved it. I will say that they take a more esoteric approach that focuses on the emotional work required for childbirth, and they take a human rights perspective to pregnancy and birth as well. It's less left-brained than maybe your nursing propensities are looking for, but it may be a really good match to balance your CNM work as well.

They have an amazing Board of Advisors, and Cathie Daubs, the trainer, was a founder of ICAN. Super encouraging towards parents to do their own autonomous research, they emphasize informed consent and emotional safety. And the certification process is rigorous (lots of papers and research, which would be a breeze for us). Good luck!

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I took the Lamaze course because it is the only accredited program available. They only teach evidence-based information which I felt was important for a healthcare provider. I fast-tracked and I'm writing the exam next week ( I registered for the course in November) they do require you to take a Teaching Skills workshop, but it is amazing and it counts for 24 CERPS. Many CBE's go on to become Lamaze certified anyhow so I just did went for it. Good luck!!

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