As a mom-to-be, I couldn’t wait to sign up for a prenatal class to learn more about pregnancy, labor, and postpartum care. After a ton of research, I purchased the Pulling Curls Prenatal Class, an online childbirth course covering everything from birth preparation to caring for a newborn. I figured an online class would be more convenient for my busy schedule and hoped for a comprehensive learning experience.
When I started the class, I instantly loved the course’s instructor, Hilary Erickson, a labor and delivery nurse with years of experience. Under her guidance, the course is engaging and easy to understand, with a mix of presentations and videos to suit different learning styles. The class was loaded with practical and insightful information, and afterward, I felt WAY more prepared and ready to go.
And though the course had many strengths, it wasn’t without its drawbacks. Thankfully, the pros outweighed the cons, making the class a valuable investment for me. The course’s flexible nature and in-depth coverage of pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum topics will be both informative and confidence-boosting for first-time moms and a great refresher for moms who have done this before. It’s a great way for busy couples who want this kind of information on demand and don’t have time for more traditional childbirth courses in a hospital setting.
✅ You can purchase and access the Pulling Curls Online Prenatal class anytime and watch later when you are closer to your delivery date.
Key Takeaways
- The Pulling Curls Prenatal Class is an informative online course for expectant parents.
- The course is taught by a qualified labor and delivery nurse offering practical advice and guidance.
- While it may have some drawbacks, the benefits of online birthing courses make it a valuable investment for new parents.
Overview of Pulling Curls Prenatal Class
As a soon-to-be mom, I was on the lookout for a comprehensive childbirth class that would help my partner and me feel confident and well-prepared. That’s when I came across Pulling Curls Prenatal Class by Hilary. This online prenatal class is designed for couples and covers pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and life after birth.
Course Content
The online class format is engaging and easy to follow, making it a fun learning experience. It’s not just another boring childbirth class. It includes useful information about hospital procedures and what to expect during labor and delivery. The course also has insightful tips for first-time parents and those with previous childbirth experiences.
The postpartum life and breastfeeding section is a particularly helpful aspect of the course. It covers essential topics like newborn care, safety measures, and dealing with common breastfeeding challenges. The Pulling Curls Prenatal Class offers ample resources and support for couples going through this journey.
Here’s some of what you’ll learn:
What to come to the hospital for:
- Unsure whether to call your doctor first or head straight to the hospital? HIllary’s got you covered! She’ll help you understand when it’s best to come right in.
Importance of drinking lots of water during labor:
- Staying hydrated is super important, mama! That’s why it’s crucial to drink lots of water during labor.
Common tests during labor and delivery:
- Hey, safety first! To ensure the well-being of both you and your little one, there are some common tests that might need to be done during labor. Don’t worry—Hillary will let you know what they are and why we do them.
Understanding contractions:
- Contractions are the real deal. After this course, you’ll understand what they feel like and how to recognize them. When you arrive at the hospital, your nurse will want to know important details about their frequency and duration.
Signs of labor:
- Figuring out if you’re truly in labor can be tricky, right? But no worries—Hillary gives you hints and tips to help you identify those telltale signs.
Recognizing your water breaking:
- Get ready for a gush of excitement! She’ll explain how to recognize when your water breaks and the questions your nurse might ask about it at the hospital.
Losing your mucus plug:
- Goodbye, mucus plug, hello labor! You’ll learn to recognize this milestone and explain what it means for you and your baby.
What’s going to happen when you get to the hospital (routines and supplies):
- Let’s talk about what to expect once you arrive at the hospital. This course will guide you through the routines and supplies you might encounter during your stay.
What to expect at the desk (like paperwork):
- When you first arrive, there may be some paperwork to take care of at the desk. Don’t worry, Hilary will fill you in on what to expect and help you navigate through it.
What to expect in the triage room before you’re admitted:
- Before being officially admitted, you’ll likely spend some time in the triage room. This course will walk you through what to expect during this initial assessment phase.
Contraction monitor and fetal heart rate monitor info:
- Your L&D nurse will be keeping a close eye on your contractions and your baby’s heart rate. Get information about the monitoring devices they use and how they help us ensure the well-being of you and your little one.
Understanding the numbers after a vaginal exam:
- After a vaginal exam, nurses often mention numbers like dilation and the baby’s position. Hilary will help you understand what these numbers mean and how they indicate progress during labor.
IV placement being standard (and alternatives):
- IV placement is common during labor, and Hilary explains why it’s done. However, if you have preferences or alternatives, this course will provide information to discuss with your healthcare provider.
What to expect if you are group B strep positive:
- If you test positive for group B strep, don’t worry. You’ll learn why receiving antibiotics every 4 hours is a standard procedure and how it helps protect your baby.
Supplies you may see in the labor and delivery room:
- Curious about the supplies you’ll come across in the labor and delivery room? Get a heads up on the common items you might encounter during your stay.
Hospital do’s and don’ts and their reasons:
- Certain guidelines in the hospital may restrict or allow specific activities like eating, bathing after your water breaks, or walking around while connected to an IV. Hilary explains the reasons behind these rules and helps you navigate them.
Inductions:
- Let’s talk about inductions! Learn the reasons why you might be induced, giving you a better understanding of the circumstances that may lead to this decision.
(p.s. if you’re considering having an induction, Hilary offers a special class just for that)
Methods of induction, including Pitocin:
- Hospitals might use different methods to induce labor, one of which is Pitocin. You’ll get information about these methods, including how they work and what you can expect.
Pain management:
- Pain management is an important aspect of labor. HIlary’s there to help you through it! She’ll share various strategies and techniques to help you cope with the pain, ensuring your comfort during the process.
Distraction ideas:
- When labor gets intense, having distractions can be incredibly helpful. Get some ideas to keep your mind occupied and provide relief during contractions.
IV pain relief meds:
- In addition to other pain management options, intravenous pain relief medications are available. Learn all about these medications and how they can offer temporary relief during labor.
Epidural: Placement and experience:
- Ah, the epidural! Hilary will guide you through what to expect during the placement of an epidural, including the process itself and what it feels like.
Natural pain management in the hospital:
- Let’s explore natural pain management techniques during your hospital stay. You’ll discuss breathing exercises, helpful distractions, and the support you can receive from your spouse.
When it’s time to deliver your baby:
- Exciting times are ahead! When it’s time to deliver, rest assured that the doctors will be there right on time, ready to assist you during this momentous event.
Cord clamping and tearing:
- On average, cord clamping lasts around 30 seconds. If you desire a longer duration, simply let your healthcare team know, and they will try to accommodate your request. The course also discusses tearing and provides information on managing it.
Average push time for first-time moms:
- Wondering about the average push time for first-time moms? Hilary will share that information with you, giving you an idea of what to expect during this phase.
Taking videos and immediate post-birth:
- Capturing those precious moments on video? You’ll learn whether recording is allowed during birth and what you can expect right after your baby arrives.
Routine procedures for the baby in the first hour:
- In the first hour after birth, three routine procedures are typically performed on the baby. However, if you have specific preferences, it’s essential to communicate them with your nurse.
C-sections:
- Whether your C-section is scheduled or unscheduled, HIlary will provide you with an overview of what to expect during this procedure. Rest assured, baby will be out in less than five minutes!
Newborn care when you get home:
Diaper changes:
- Learn the ins and outs of diaper changes! You’ll get tips and tricks to make this task a breeze as you navigate those adorable baby bottoms.
Bathing and swaddling:
- Bathing your baby and swaddling them snugly can be delightful moments. Learn the steps to ensure a safe and soothing bathing experience and how to create the perfect swaddle.
Best odds for SIDS prevention:
- We all want to keep our little ones safe, and Hilary shares important information on reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). She’ll provide you with the best practices and measures to create a safe sleep environment for your baby.
Taking care of yourself postpartum:
- While caring for your precious baby, it’s crucial not to forget about yourself, Mama! Discuss postpartum self-care, including what to watch for and how to ensure your well-being during this period of adjustment.
A bonus is that the Pulling Curls Prenatal Class offers lifetime access to the course materials, so you can revisit the content at any point in your parenting journey. There’s even a money-back guarantee, giving you peace of mind when making the investment.
You can get started with the class by clicking here.
Instructor: Hilary Erickson
I was pleasantly surprised by the instructor, Hilary Erickson. She is a mom to three and a registered labor and delivery nurse with years of experience under her belt. In 2005, she started the blog Pulling Curls, inspired by her curly hair. Her background as a labor nurse and years of OB nursing experience gives her the knowledge and credibility to teach this class.
The class is divided into several informative lessons, and Hilary was knowledgeable, supportive, and uplifting. The lessons covered everything from pregnancy basics to labor and delivery.
One of the pros of having Hilary as an instructor is her hands-on experience in the field, which gives the class a realistic perspective on what to expect during pregnancy and in the delivery room. Her approach is friendly, and she truly understands the unique challenges faced by parents-to-be.
Another advantage of having Hilary as an instructor is the support she offers to her students. She is always available to answer questions and provide guidance. Her knowledge of hospital routines helps address concerns about the entire childbirth process.
However, one minor con I noticed is that there were a few moments where I felt like the class could have been a little more formal or structured. Nonetheless, this was a minor issue that did not take away from the overall positive experience of the course.
Overall, Hilary’s experience as a labor and delivery nurse and her friendly and supportive nature make the Pulling Curls prenatal class a great option for couples.
Pros and Cons of the Class
Advantages
In the Online Prenatal Class for Couples, I found many beneficial aspects. The course content covers a wide range of topics, including labor and delivery, newborn care, induction, c-section, sleep, and breastfeeding. I appreciated that the instructor, Hilary Erickson, is an experienced labor and delivery nurse, which gives her valuable insights to share with students.
The class format is very convenient, with videos and written content available to access anytime from home. This feature allows pregnant women and their partners the flexibility to take the course when it’s most convenient for them. The private Facebook group included in the prenatal course provides additional support and allows pregnant women to connect with others.
I particularly enjoyed the in-depth sections on natural pain management, breathing techniques, and labor-related topics such as contractions, induction, c-sections, and postpartum care. The course also offers valuable information on topics like fetal heart rate monitoring, vaginal exam, b strep positive, and epidural options.
The best part of the course is that it works as both a comprehensive childbirth course for first-time expecting moms and a refresher course for those who have already given birth. Additionally, the course is budget-friendly, making it accessible to a wide range of students.
Disadvantages
While the Online Prenatal Class for Couples has many advantages, I found a few minor drawbacks. The course doesn’t include a hospital tour, which might be important for some expecting parents to feel fully prepared for giving birth. However, considering this is an online birth class, I understand that a hospital tour isn’t feasible.
Another limitation is that the course mainly focuses on hospital births, so those planning a home or birthing center birthing experience might not find all the information relevant to their situation.
Although the class offers a lot of information, it might be overwhelming for some students, and the course organization could be improved to make navigating the materials easier. Some pregnant women might prefer more interactive elements, like live Q&A sessions.
Topics Covered in the Course
Labor and Delivery
In the Pulling Curls prenatal class, I found the labor and delivery section to be really comprehensive. It covered everything from the stages of labor, what to expect, and how to cope with the pain. The class breaks down the process into easy-to-understand chunks, addresses anxiety, and provides techniques for pregnant women and their partners to manage it during labor.
Birthing Options
This class covers multiple birthing options such as vaginal birth, cesarean birth, and even water birth. The course content weighs the pros and cons of each option, allowing students to make informed choices based on their unique circumstances. I appreciated the way the course emphasizes the importance of birth plans and helps expectant parents create one tailored to their needs.
Pain Management
The pain management portion of the course is both informative and comprehensive. It addresses various natural pain relief techniques and medication options available to pregnant women during labor. I liked how it encourages expectant mothers to explore different choices and discusses each method’s benefits and potential side effects.
Postpartum Care
Postpartum life can be challenging, but the Pulling Curls class prepares students for this crucial stage. It covers topics such as physical recovery, emotional well-being, and postnatal nutrition. As a student, I felt more confident about handling the postpartum period after completing this course.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding can be a sensitive and complex topic for many new mothers. This course does an excellent job of providing detailed information about breastfeeding, latch techniques, and possible challenges. It also covers alternative feeding methods for those who cannot or choose not to breastfeed.
Newborn Care
Finally, the newborn care section of the course equips students with essential knowledge and skills to care for their babies. I learned a lot from diaper changes to car seat safety in this part of the course. Even experienced parents may find it helpful as a refresher course.
The course covers all aspects, but there are a few in-person elements that could offer hands-on experience. Nevertheless, the Pulling Curls prenatal class was friendly and comprehensive, leaving me feeling confident and prepared for my labor.
(p.s. Hilary also offers a class specifically about newborn care)
And More…
Additionally, this course covers something you may not have thought of...how to say “no” in the hospital. I love this part of the course. You’ll want to be able to say no to things that aren’t part of your birth plan without feeling awkward, and Hilary will tell you and your partner exactly how to navigate this while you’re in the hospital.
She also includes some great printables for creating your birth plan and what to pack in your hospital bag.
Additional Resources
Support Groups
In addition to the Pulling Curls prenatal class, I found various support groups available for expecting parents. A Facebook group is included when you join the prenatal course, which connects you with other parents-to-be and allows you to ask questions or share concerns.
Sign up now for access to this amazing Facebook group full of supportive new moms!
Infant CPR Classes
I cannot emphasize enough the importance of infant CPR classes for new parents. These classes teach potentially life-saving skills and help build confidence in caring for a newborn. Many organizations offer infant CPR courses, so be sure to look for one in your area.
Baby Care Basics
Baby care basics are covered in the Pulling Curls prenatal class, but I found some additional helpful resources. For instance, local hospitals and childcare centers sometimes offer baby care courses to new parents. These courses cover topics like diapering, feeding, and safe sleep practices, often providing hands-on practice and problem-solving opportunities. I would recommend looking into these courses to supplement your prenatal education.
Birth Center Tours
Lastly, consider going on a birth center tour, whether you’re planning a home birth or a hospital birth. These tours give you a chance to familiarize yourself with the facility, meet staff members, and ask questions, making you feel more comfortable and prepared for your delivery day.
Comparing Pulling Curls Prenatal Class
Online vs In-Person Classes
As an expecting mom, I found the Pulling Curls online prenatal class to be a great alternative to traditional in-person classes. I love the convenience of online courses, and this one allowed me to learn at my own pace and on my own schedule. No more rushing to make it to a class after a long day at work! Another advantage of the online format is that my partner and I could revisit the materials as needed, which helped us retain the information better.
However, there are some possible drawbacks to online classes. You might miss out on the opportunity to ask questions in real-time and interact with other expecting parents. But, in my experience, Pulling Curls does a pretty good job of addressing the most common concerns and questions throughout the course.
Hospital-Based vs Independent Classes
While hospital-based prenatal classes can undoubtedly provide valuable information, I found the Pulling Curls online course to be an excellent complement to those classes. A wealth of practical knowledge comes across in the lessons since it’s designed by a labor and delivery nurse with over 20 years of experience. This independent course allowed us to explore topics and techniques that might not be covered in a standard hospital class.
However, the course is not affiliated with any specific hospital or healthcare system, so you’ll want to ensure you know the policies and procedures at the place you plan to give birth. But overall, as a standalone resource or as an addition to a hospital-based class, I found Pulling Curls to be a user-friendly, engaging, and informative prenatal course offering a diverse range of topics for expecting parents.
Is It Worth It?
Yes, I have to say it was worth it. After taking the class, I felt much more prepared for the pregnancy, birth, delivery, labor, and postpartum stages. In fact, it inspired me to become an affiliate so that I could share this great class with other moms-to-be who will find it as valuable as I did!
I’ll give you a rundown of the pros and cons, but in my experience, the pros certainly outweigh the cons. I think this is one of the best (if not the best) online childbirth classes out there.
Pros:
- Comprehensive content: The class covers everything from pregnancy to postpartum, including labor and delivery information. I found this incredibly helpful in building my confidence as I approached my due date.
- Flexible schedule: The online format made it possible for me to take the class at my own pace, which is ideal for busy moms-to-be.
- Supportive community: I appreciated the access to a community of fellow pregnant moms who were going through the same journey as me. It was comforting to know I wasn’t alone in my experiences.
- Trusted information: The class is taught by a registered nurse, which ensures that the information provided is accurate and reliable.
- Affordable pricing: Compared to in-person classes, the Pulling Curls prenatal class was a more budget-friendly option for my family.
Cons:
- Lack of hands-on practice: One downside to taking an online class is the absence of hands-on practice. However, I found that watching detailed videos and following along provided a suitable alternative.
- Self-motivation required: Since it’s an online course, you’ll need to have the discipline to complete the class on your own schedule. That being said, having flexible access to the course material made it easy for me to stay on track.
In my opinion, the Pulling Curls prenatal class is worth it for expecting mothers to help you prepare for the birth of your baby. It provides a friendly, supportive environment to learn about pregnancy, birth, delivery, and postpartum care. The pros undoubtedly outweigh the cons, making the course an excellent choice for first-time moms or those looking for a helpful refresher.
AND, you don’t just have to take my word for it. Read 100’s of positive reviews here.
❓Still not sure this class is right for you❓ Hilary also offers a FREE Prenatal Class that includes some (not nearly all) of this information in her paid course. It’s a great chance for you to see if her style is right for you.