Shinemama classes are unique! We offer the complete package of prenatal and birth classes which cover early pregnancy through to preparation for birth and the first weeks with your baby.

About me:
I’m Katharyne. I have three children – one caesarean birth, two VBACs (vaginal birth after caesarean). My youngest was born at home by waterbirth here in San Diego on Christmas Eve, 2008. I am fully trained in childbirth education by the ICEA and currently undergoing their certification process. I am also a DONA trained doula. I’ve been living in lovely San Diego for the last year although I originally hail from the UK (so you might have to correct me if I say ‘nappies’ instead of ‘diapers’ occasionally!)

About our classes
Classes with Shinemama have a bias towards natural birth and breastfeeding where possible, but we welcome everyone and adhere to the ICEA’s philosophy, ‘Freedom of choice based on knowledge of alternatives.’ We also take a family-centred approach to birth and partners, husbands, close friends or other birth partners of either gender are very welcome except for class five which is for women only.

I am an independent educator and do not adhere to any one philosophy (e.g. Lamaze, Bradley, Hypnobabies/Hypnobirthing etc.) however I can help you tailor an individual approach to birth and support you in learning more about a philosophy that appeals to you.

I endeavour to teach from an evidence-based stance and to keep abreast of current research.

Topics covered during our six class series includes:
- Your birth choices. How to get the kind of birth you want, how to choose a caregiver and how to communicate with him or her effectively.
- Anatomy, symptoms of pregnancy, what’s normal and what’s not
- Nutrition, exercise and what’s safe and what isn’t during pregnancy
- Preparation for birth. What to pack, what to expect.
- Labour. How it happens, what to do, when to call your caregiver, how your partner can support you, comfort techniques, coping methods, what to do when labour doesn’t go to plan, how to attain the birth you want. I offer the chance to try unique comfort techniques including TENS.
- How to maximise your chance of successful breastfeeding
- How to maximise your chance of attaining a natural birth if desired
- First days with your baby, establishing the breastfeeding relationship, sleeping, feeding and adjusting to life with your new family dynamic.

Classes are offered in intimate, comfortable surroundings with plenty of interaction, snacks, drinks and videos. I aim to make them fun and informative and to answer any questions you may have. It’s my hope that through the class, you will get to know other couples with babies of a similar age and perhaps make lasting friendships. I also have a library of great books which you may peruse during breaks in class.

The six week series is suitable for any woman starting the course between 16 and 24 weeks into her pregnancy and costs $195 which includes workbook and handouts.

As well as the six week evening course, I offer the following one-off classes:

Birth Choices: An Introduction to Pregnancy – For the newly pregnant or new to the area, this course includes choosing your caregiver, awareness of birth options and key tips for a healthy pregnancy and great birth.
Many couples spend more time researching a stroller than a caregiver. Don’t be one of them! Invest in this class and maximise your chances of a great pregnancy.
This class is 2½ hours and costs $50. Participants are eligible for a 10% discount on the six week course.

Birth Preparation: Ready to give birth? – A great class for experienced parents wanting a refresher in birth, labour and comfort techniques or for those who just want a quick guide to birth. This class is suitable for anyone between 24-40 weeks of their pregnancy.
This class is 2½ hours and costs $50. There is a $5 discount for previous participants in any Shinemama class.

If you are pushed for time, I also offer private classes with a schedule to suit you and your partner. Please email me for more details.

Classes are held in the La Jolla/Pacific Beach area of San Diego.

E-mail katharyne@shinemama.com today to enquire further.

Doula services
I also offer labour and birth doula services and welcome clients with due dates in or after March 2010. A doula is a trained female birth assistant who is dedicated to providing support and comfort to the labouring woman.

Evidence shows that having a doula present at your birth has many benefits including a shortened labour, reduced chance of unnecessary intervention and better chance at successful breastfeeding. Doulas can also substantially reduce perceptions of pain and fear during birth and are a great support, whether or not you are also supported by your partner.

Class participants are eligible for a 10% discount on doula services. Please email me for more information on Shinemama doula services.