Has anyone taken the birth classes offered through UCSF's Great Expectations Program? We're due to give birth there in mid-September, and given the highly-rated birth experiences by many of my friends there, I was hoping that it carried over to the birth classes as well, especially since the prices seem to be more affordable than other places. I'm also interested in other SF-based childbirth prep classes too if you have one you'd highly recommend.
Yes! My husband and I took their classes when I was pregnant the first time and would definitely recommend them. This was pre-covid so they were in person but they are probably in-person again. I thought they were very informative and there was a diverse group of people in the class, which was great. The only potential drawback if you are coming from the East Bay is that most people attending are from SF and so if you are considering these classes (in part) as a way to build networks with other new families, that opportunity will be limited.
WE took the birth class, the breast feeding class, and the taking care of a baby class. They were all virtual because of COVID which I would have liked to be in person in normal circumstances but they were all good, very helpful, and lots of info. I also gave birth at UCSF and felt it was exactly the right place to be. Good luck!
I took the 3 class package: birthing, breastfeeding, & parenting. Hands down the breastfeeding class was the most helpful for me. Our instructor, Sarah?, was amazing. She had all sorts of useful tips and insider knowledge. For example the fact that you can't book an appointment with a UCSF lactation consultant until after you give birth. So basically have your husband call from the hospital room to make the first available appointment. Or great tips on how to clean your pump equipment at work. The birthing & parenting classes had good instructors but were more forgettable to me.