Beyond Birth and Babies: What AHS Doesn’t Cover
Bridging the gap between prenatal education and the realities of birth and postpartum recovery
Where Prenatal Education Falls Short and Why It Matters
Over time, a consistent gap has become apparent in our clinical work. Even after completing prenatal classes through Alberta Health Services (AHS), many clients still have questions about how to translate what they’ve learned in class into the realities of labour, birth, and recovery. They understand the information, but are unsure how it applies to their own bodies, their decisions, and the situations that often unfold in real time.
That gap is exactly why Beyond Birth & Babies exists.
A Practical, Evidence-Based Bridge from Knowledge to Real-Life Birth
Developed through years of Kelsey’s pelvic health practice and expanded by women’s health OT Claire, this session bridges the space between AHS education and lived experience. It’s evidence-based, grounded in current research, informed by Calgary-based hospital policies, and shaped by real clinical patterns we see every day.
We want to be clear. Public health prenatal education matters, and we actively encourage AHS classes like Birth & Babies. This session is not a replacement. It’s a complement, designed to help you translate information into practical, confident decision-making.
What We Focus On
Beyond Birth & Babies is offered to anyone who’s 34+ weeks pregnant.
Here’s what we focus on:
- Common decision points during labour, including what happens when plans change
- What informed advocacy can look like for you and your support team
- How to prepare now for postpartum recovery
- Evidence-based guidance on pacing, pressure management, fatigue, and common recovery missteps
- Approaching recovery with flexibility and confidence, regardless of how birth unfolds
- Types of pushing, and the times that each is appropriate
This session is not about controlling birth or chasing a specific outcome. It is about understanding your options, collaborating with your care team, and setting yourself up for the strongest possible recovery – regardless of what happens in delivery.
How Do I Sign Up?
Available as 1:1 sessions with Claire, or as a small group of three. All sessions are potentially eligible for occupational therapy coverage, depending on your individual insurance, so make sure you check your policy with your insurance provider!
Beyond Birth and Babies FAQ
Who is this group class for?
This session is exclusively available to Coven Health Collective clients who are between 35 and 37 weeks pregnant.
Is this a replacement for AHS prenatal classes?
No. This session is designed to complement AHS prenatal education, not replace it. It helps you apply what you’ve already learned in a practical, personalized way.
What makes this different from standard prenatal classes?
This session focuses on real-life application. You’ll learn how to navigate decision-making during labour, advocate for yourself, and prepare for recovery based on what actually happens in clinical settings.
Can I attend with a partner or support person?
Yes. Involving your support person can help you both feel more aligned and prepared for labour and recovery.
How is the session delivered?
You can choose between a 1:1 session with Claire or a small group setting of up to three participants.
Is this covered by insurance?
Yes. Sessions are eligible for occupational therapy coverage. We recommend checking with your provider to confirm your specific benefits.