Childbirth education

A variety of classes are offered through Albert Lea, Austin and Rochester to new or soon-to-be moms and their support person. Offerings are subject to change due to local COVID-19 activity.

Join us in Albert Lea

Search Classes & Events for local class dates, conference room locations and times. Registration is required for most offerings. Class sizes are limited. In-person classes offered in Albert Lea and Austin are free.

Class cancellation

If class is canceled, Mayo Clinic Health System will make every attempt to reach you by phone or email. Mayo reserves the right to cancel any class that does not meet minimum size requirements. If there are severe weather warnings in the area, classes will be canceled. Alternative classes will be offered whenever possible. Classes that reach maximum capacity will be closed. If you must cancel your registration, you should call at least three business days prior to your class so those on the waitlist can have your spot.

You also can call to ask about class status:

• Albert Lea Public Health: 507-377-5100
• Austin Family Birth Center: 507-434-1380

Breastfeeding education

This class is designed for women who are considering breastfeeding or those who have decided to breastfeed. It covers the benefits of breastfeeding and information needed to achieve breastfeeding goals. Support people welcome. Babies are encouraged to attend.

Free. Available in Albert Lea; hosted in partnership with Freeborn County.

Childbirth education — live instruction

This class is designed for women in their sixth or seventh month of pregnancy. Topics include maternal/fetal aspects of the third trimester, labor and delivery, relaxation skills, breathing techniques, cesarean birth, the “normal” newborn, postpartum adjustments, car seat information and a tour of Family Birth Center. 

Free. Available in Albert Lea and Austin.

Family Birth Center tour

A tour of the Family Birth Center is included with the "Childbirth Education — Live Instruction" class in Austin. If you are not attending this class in Austin or the tour is cancelled due to COVID-19, take a virtual tour.

Free. Available in Austin.

Rochester

Childbirth education — Self-guided online offerings

Three online, self-guided courses are available for purchase. Access information from any computer or mobile device when and where you prefer. Share information with your partner and support people. Learn with videos and quizzes. Get organized with tools, planning checklists and trackers.

Once you purchase your seat to the e-class, you will receive an email with login instructions. Allow four to six hours to complete the program. You will have access to the e-class for six months. Call the birth center to schedule a facility tour. Each class costs $50 (nonrefundable), payable by credit card.

Purchase courses of interest to you:

• Understanding Breastfeeding eClass
  This course covers how breastfeeding works, getting the best start, latching on, breastfeeding positions, when to feed your baby, getting enough milk, breast care and breastfeeding lifestyle.
• Understanding Your Newborn eClass
  This course covers newborn traits and behaviors, crying and comforting, feeding, diapering, bathing, nail care, dressing, newborn health and safety, and additional resources.
• Understanding Birth eClass
  This course covers pregnancy, labor, birth stories, comfort techniques, medical procedures, cesarean section birth, newborns and postpartum.

Mayo Clinic’s Perinatal Education Program in Rochester hosts a wide selection of classes both in person and via the interactive Zoom platform. A variety of class topics are offered based on availability.