Frequently Asked Questions
When should I take a birth class?
For most parents, the best time to take a birth class is in the early third trimester, around 24–32 weeks of pregnancy. This timing gives you enough space to absorb the information, talk through questions with your provider, and feel prepared as you get closer to your due date.
That said, it’s never too early or too late to take a childbirth class. Many families find it helpful earlier in pregnancy, while others take a class closer to their due date or even last minute. Any timing is still beneficial—what matters most is feeling informed and prepared.
We specifically recommend taking The Birth Class between 24–32 weeks so you have time to reflect, do additional research if desired, and discuss anything that comes up with your healthcare provider.
If you’re just finding out you’re pregnant, we recommend following us on Instagram or reaching out via email so we can keep you updated on upcoming NYC birth class dates and availability.
No matter when you take it, our goal is to help you feel confident, prepared, and supported for your birth experience.
When do you release new class dates?
We post new dates to our website and our scheduling page each month. Class days will fluctuate each month. We are nurses & nurse practitioners, so our hospital schedules fluctuate. We try to post dates a month in advance.
Do I need to take all of the classes?
We highly recommend taking all of our classes if your schedule allows. Each class is designed with a different focus, and together they provide a complete preparation for birth, newborn care, and feeding. We also offer discounts for families who register for multiple classes.
If you’re looking for a childbirth class in NYC, our classes are designed and taught by labor & delivery RNs who currently work in NYC hospitals.
Beginning August 2026, our most popular birth class options have been streamlined. The Birth Class now includes the best of our Labor Positioning class in one comprehensive in-person experience.
The Birth Class (Childbirth Class – In-Person & Virtual)
Our Birth Class focuses primarily on labor, delivery, and birth preparation, with an overview of newborn and postpartum care. We cover everything you need to feel prepared for a hospital birth, including labor stages, pain management options (epidural and natural coping techniques), inductions, and interventions. We’ll discuss birth preferences, decision-making and go over lots of common scenarios that we see in the hospital every single day!
We also focus on decision-making during labor—helping you understand your options so you can feel confident navigating the hospital setting. You’ll learn when to go to the hospital, epidural timing and what to expect from your care team.
A big part of this childbirth class is movement in labor. We teach pelvic anatomy and baby’s journey through the pelvis, labor positions, peanut ball techniques, and comfort measures that can support labor progress and may help reduce interventions. In-person classes include hands-on practice with guidance from experienced Labor & Delivery RNs.
The Newborn Class (Newborn Care Class)
Our Newborn Class prepares you for life with your baby in the first days, weeks, and months. We cover newborn care basics, feeding (breastfeeding and formula), sleep and soothing, hygiene, and warning signs. We also review what happens immediately after birth in the hospital, including routine newborn procedures and what to expect at home in those early weeks. There is an option to “add on” Infant CPR and choking relief, where you will practice on a mannequin.
The Breastfeeding Class (IBCLC-Taught Breastfeeding Education)
Taught by our IBCLC and Labor & Delivery RN, this breastfeeding class provides in-depth, practical education on how breastfeeding works. Topics include latch techniques, milk supply, pumping, returning to work, troubleshooting common issues, and what breastfeeding support looks like in the early postpartum period.
Whether you’re searching for a birth class, childbirth education, or newborn class, our goal is to give you realistic, evidence-based preparation so you feel confident, supported, and ready for birth and baby.
Can I take a class in person?
Yes! We currently offer The Birth Class and The Newborn Class in-person in NYC.
What can I expect for the in person class vs. virtual?
Our virtual classes are taught via Zoom. We screen share to show our powerpoint presentation that includes a few videos. Our in person birth class is taught in small conference room, you’re welcome to bring lunch/dinner and we’ll have some snacks.
Do I have to pay for my partner to join?
No! We encourage bringing your partner or support person!
One reservation grants admission for you and one support person!
What if I have to cancel?
Our class sizes are small to give you the best experience, and they often book up many weeks in advance. A last minute spot can be hard to fill.
We offer a 50% refund if cancellation is made 15 days in advance of your scheduled class.
Within 14 days of class, no refund is offered unless your spot can be filled by someone on a waitlist.
We know that situations can come up and highly recommend booking a class prior to 36 weeks. If there is a pregnancy related emergency/hospitalization we will do our best to accommodate.
What if none of the dates work for me?
Please send us an email at appts@specialdeliveryNY.com
We often get requests for specific classes and dates and would love to coordinate a group class that works for you.
Will my insurance cover the cost of the classes?
Some insurance plans will reimburse for childbirth and breastfeeding classes! You should contact your insurance carrier to inquire about your plan specifically. We can provide you with a form to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.