The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) offers a comprehensive Childbirth Education Program intended to meet the needs of first-time and experienced parents. We offer a variety of classes that help prepare the entire family in welcoming the newborn.

Our classes are taught by experienced Registered Nurses and Certified Childbirth Educators. Registration is required for all classes. Please review our class descriptions and register by clicking on the blue sign-up button next to each class in the list below.

For more information, please email childbirthclass@pennmedicine.upenn.edu or call 215-410-1226.

Class Descriptions

Baby Safety Classes

Virtual Infant CPR

This non-certification course teaches the lifesaving skills of infant CPR and relief of choking. Skills are taught by certified CPR instructors. Because this is a virtual course, instruction will be limited to observation only. Virtual Infant CPR is designed for individuals who want to learn CPR, but do not need a course completion card. This course is ideal for new parents, grandparents and childcare providers.

Breastfeeding Classes

Virtual Breastfeeding Class

This one-session class is for birth parents and partners who are interested in learning the basics of breastfeeding. The class is led by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) from The Hospital of The University of Pennsylvania. Topics covered include factors impacting milk production, correct latch and positioning, feeding schedules, and problem solving for a successful breastfeeding experience.

Virtual Breastfeeding Support Group

The lactation team at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania is here to support you with lactating through our weekly virtual Breastfeeding Support Group. We will meet every Thursday from noon to 1 pm. Registration IS REQUIRED. Have your questions answered by an IBCLC and share your breastfeeding experiences in a non-judgmental environment. Group access information will be provided to patients on the postpartum unit.

Virtual Making It Work with Breastfeeding

This virtual class will cover feeding concerns such as how to choose a breast pump, pumping and storing milk, building a breast milk supply for when returning to work/school, and paced bottle feeding. This class is taught by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

Please note: This is not a breastfeeding basics class. Making It Work with Breastfeeding is ideal for the lactating parents who plan to return to work or school, or any lactating parents who plan to pump.

Childbirth Classes

Virtual 3-Week Preparation for Childbirth

This 3-week online and interactive course covers topics such as antepartum, relaxation, breathing, labor and delivery, anesthesia, cesarean sections, postpartum and newborn care. This class includes a virtual tour of the maternity unit.

Virtual Baby Basics

This newborn class will take place virtually. Learn all about your little one from diapering, bathing, feeding, sleep schedules, adjusting to parenthood and a whole lot more. Please note that this information is covered in the 3-Week Preparation for Childbirth class. This class is ideal for parents and grandparents who do not wish to attend Preparation for Childbirth or who need a newborn refresher course.

Virtual Preparing for Multiples

Are you expecting twins or more? If so, please join us for a virtual childbirth class to help you and your partner best prepare for multiples. This class is taught by an experienced ICN (Intensive Care Nursery) nurse.

Virtual HUP Maternity Unit Tour

Please join your childbirth educator as you take a virtual tour of the maternity units at The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP- 34th and Spruce Streets location). You will have a chance to ask questions, as you are guided through our 1-hour tour.

Please note: This tour is included in the 3-Week Preparation for Childbirth course.

Virtual Sibling Class

The arrival of new baby is a very exciting time for the entire family, especially for the older siblings. This virtual, interactive class will prepare your child for the new baby. It is geared toward children ages 3-10. Each child must be accompanied virtually by an adult. Class activities will include reading a book about becoming a big brother or big sister, learning how to hold and swaddle a new baby, toy safety, proper hand washing techniques, and discussion around the changes that occur within the family.

Virtual 4-Week Infant Massage and Bonding Course

Touch is your baby’s first sense to develop, starting around 7 weeks of pregnancy. Once your baby is born, touch plays a key role in the bonding process. Touch is also an important way to soothe and calm your baby. They thrive on skin-to-skin contact.

Infant massage is the best way to promote bonding between the baby and parents, siblings, and other family members.

Our virtual infant massage course is designed for parents and caregivers with children from 2 weeks to 12 months old. It is a multi-class course held on four consecutive weeks.

Massaging a newborn might help improve lactation, overcome postpartum depression, and set up a sleep and feeding schedule.

Infant massage helps babies with mental development, growth, and weight gain. It also reduces colic and constipation and normalizes muscle tone.

Register Online

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