Top 10 Best Childbirth Classes in San Francisco, California
We connect expecting parents with trusted providers of childbirth classes designed to educate and empower. Covering essential topics like labor techniques, pain management, and newborn care, these classes are led by experienced instructors with strong participant feedback.
Loving Arms Childbirth
45th Street, San Francisco, California- Childbirth Education
- Lactation Services
- Doulas
Our approach is always curious and always evolving. We follow the evidence and incorporate different techniques from various methodologies, with a foc More Detail
UCSF Birth Center Labor & Delivery
4th Street, San Francisco, California- UCSF Prenatal Care
- Breastfeeding
- Classes & Webinars
UCSF Health is a world leader in health care and is known for innovative medicine, advanced technology and compassionate care. For more than a century More Detail
Natural Resources: Pregnancy + Parenting
Valencia Street, San Francisco, California- Pathways
- Child Passenger Safety Class
- Classes
- See More
The Natural Resources All Families Foundation (“Natural Resources”) is a 501c3 that serves expecting and new families of all income levels through More Detail
Mission Bernal Women's Clinic
Valencia Street, San Francisco, California- Prenatal/Perinatal Care
- Obstetricians & Gynecologists
- Childbirth Education
When you access a Sutter Health network hospital, physician or medical specialist, you'll be tapping into Northern California's premier care network f More Detail
Frequently Asked Questions
Childbirth classes prepare expecting parents for labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery. They provide education, hands-on training, and emotional support to help you feel more confident and informed before giving birth. You’ll learn about pain management techniques, breathing exercises, medical interventions, and newborn care, so you can make informed decisions during labor.
Most people start between the 28th and 32nd week of pregnancy. This gives you enough time to complete the course and practice what you’ve learned before labor begins. If you’re expecting twins or a high-risk pregnancy, you may want to start a little earlier.
There are different childbirth education methods, each with a unique approach:
- Lamaze focuses on breathing and relaxation techniques to manage labor pain.
- Bradley Method emphasizes natural childbirth with partner coaching.
- Hypnobirthing teaches self-hypnosis techniques for a calmer birth.
- Hospital-based classes cover medical interventions like epidurals and cesarean sections.
Choosing the right class depends on your birthing preferences and comfort level.
Yes! Most childbirth classes encourage partners, family members, or doulas to participate. Support persons learn how to comfort and assist the birthing person during labor, making them more involved and confident in the process.
Prices range from $50 to $300, depending on whether they’re online, in-person, or private sessions. Some hospitals offer free or discounted classes, and certain insurance plans may partially cover the cost—especially if the class is medically recommended.