Video: Dance Class Helps Women Prepare to Give Birth

A new class offered at has expectant moms dancing to make labor easier.

Barbara Montague, a licensed practical nurse, said Dancing for Birth has been popular elsewhere but is new to the Cleveland area.

"I knew there was a class out there for Dancing for Birth. I love music, I love dancing so I wanted to bring the classes here to Hillcrest," Montague said.

She said Dancing for Birth keeps pregnant women active while teaching moves that will help get babies into better positions for birth.

"It helps the moms navigate through their labor for a better birth experience," she said. "The dance moves we do help get the baby into the optimum position for birth."

Heather Zahn of Kirtland said the class delivers on its promise. She took Lamaze classes before the birth of her first child three years ago and was interested in trying something different this time around.

"It was a unique way of approaching labor instead of the standard Lamaze," she said. "It helps you learn movements and positions to help get in a place that's more peaceful."

Montague said women who have taken the class have a higher level of birth satisfaction. "They feel less pain during their labor and they generally give birth five to seven days earlier," she said.

She likes the class because it offers something different from traditional programs in that it covers dance, relaxation and wisdom.

"I was looking for more of a holistic approach to birth," Montague said. "This is not to take the place of Lamaze. This is something for both body and mind. The body and mind connect. Mentally and physically it all comes together."

Even a mom stuck in bed can make use of some of the techniques, she added.

"You can be anywhere and do the movements," Montague said.

Classes are $40 for a four-week session. Register at the hospital website or by calling 440-312-4647.