Breastfeeding is a natural act, but it is also a learned art that takes time and patience. This 2.5 hour course is designed to support and educate expectant mothers and their partners about the benefits of breastfeeding, and give women the tools they need to successfully begin nursing their newborn. The course includes discussion of health benefits to mom and baby, basic anatomy and physiology of the breast, care of the nursing mother, how to read baby's cues, how to initiate breastfeeding, correct positioning and latch, problem solving, bonding with your baby and locating community resources. Birth Partners are encouraged to attend.

Members: $55/couple
Nonmembers: $70/couple

Group D: Tuesday, October 28
6:30 - 9:00pm Amy Hyams

Group A: Sunday, November 2
12:00pm - 2:30pm Heather Pierini

Group B: Saturday, December 20
12:00pm - 2:30pm Heather Pierini

Michelle Welborn is a certified birth doula, postpartum doula and childbirth educator. She has attended over 100 births in hospitals, homes and birth centers, and taught dozens of new and expecting parents in the Bay Area. She received her formal training through DONA, Lamaze International and Natural Resources, but she considers birthing women and their partners to be her greatest teachers. She is a member of the San Francisco Doula Group, DONA, CAPPA and a founding member of the SF Doula Group Peer Review. Welborn has also taught courses in massage, guided relaxation, Hypnobirthing, aromatherapy and midwifery. For more information, see www.welborndoula.com.

Tracy Dillen-Massillon has been working with birthing families since 2003. As a certified birth and postpartum doula, she provides nurturing and practical support for new moms and dads throughout the miraculous transition to parenthood. Dillen-Massillon is also a certified lactation counselor and a Lamaze-trained childbirth educator. She teaches a number of courses for new and expectant parents and also trains postpartum doulas. For more information, visit www.birthharmony.com

Heather Pierini started working with parents in 2002 as a WIC breastfeeding peer counselor. She has been working with Natural Resources since 2003 teaching breastfeeding and infant care classes as well as the sling class. She is the owner and founder of MaMaMade Products, providing quality babywearing products, childrenŐs accessories and natural bath supplies.