Prenatal Classes
Preparing for the birth of your baby in Eeyou Istchee
In the past, all Cree babies were born on Cree land. Then came an era of medicalized birth that demanded that all babies be born in another region's hospital and most women gave birth in Val d'Or, Montréal or Chibougamau hospitals.
Since 2018, the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay adopted a resolution to bring back Cree births in Eeyou Istchee. Midwives and other health professionals worked on a prenatal curriculum to further support women giving birth, wherever they will deliver their babies.
Why attend Prenatal Classes
Attending prenatal classes informs you on what pregnancy is all about and will guide you through labor and the birth of your child.
This collaboration between Niishyuu, midwives, Public Health experts, nurses, doctors and workers from your community, is a complete program meant to empower you and your partner through this new adventure.
01.
Building a Healthy Baby
Healthy eating during pregnancy, healthy weight gain for a healthy baby weight at birth, improving eating habits of the whole family, nutrition myths & beliefs.
02.
Joojoo Time
Joojoo Time (Breastfeeding). The importance of breastfeeding, basics of breastfeeding, including preparation, positions, tips and main concerns about breastfeeding. A word on smoking, drugs, alcohol and partying during the breastfeeding period.
03.
Keep Moving!
Physical activity during pregnancy. Life in the bush as a great example of active living. An Elder might be present to talk about a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy.
04.
Taking Care of Yourself
Pregnancy is a time where you need to take more care of yourself to avoid illness and to feel good. Oral health is very important as well as regular hygiene.
05.
Baby is coming!
Labour and pain management: Signs of labor and when to consult at the clinic, hospital routine, labor pain management, pharmacological and natural ways, skin-to-skin, caesarean section.
06.
Let's Play
Child development information to support you and your partner in caring for your baby. Your baby changes quickly in the first months.
07.
Baby is Here!
Share your challenges with other parents now that your baby has arrived. Celebrate all together your future entry in the Nurturing Program.
08.
Home Sweet Home
What to expect in the first few days at home, newborn care. Mother: Physical recovery, baby blues, birth control. Baby: feeding, frequency of stools & urines, safe sleeping, managing fever and when to consult at the clinic.