How one expectant mom found strength and support through Boone Health’s Fit for Delivery class.

As a nurse, Haley Chastain was particularly attuned to the changes happening in her body throughout her first pregnancy.

She and her husband, Adam, were overjoyed to learn they were expecting. Given Haley’s previous diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), they had anticipated a longer journey to conception, but to their delight, they became pregnant quickly.

Their friends and family shared their excitement, and early on the couple decided they wanted to know their baby’s gender.

“We did the blood test, and as I was pulling into work one day, I just had a feeling the results would be in. I checked my email, and there they were! I immediately called Adam so we could find out together. It’s a boy, and we are thrilled!” Haley shares.

Haley’s first trimester went smoothly with fatigue being her only significant symptom. However, she did have concerns about her pelvic floor health, as she had experienced issues in the past.

Fortunately, her mother Tracy Evers, the director of Boone Health’s physical therapy program, introduced her to Boone’s Fit for Delivery class.

Fit for Delivery is a comprehensive, half-day class led by pelvic floor therapist Beth Frazier.

“This class is designed to support women from the early stages of pregnancy through postpartum recovery. We provide guidance on prenatal nutrition and exercise, teach techniques to prepare for childbirth, and discuss ways to improve outcomes for both mom and baby. We also cover essential postpartum education, including breastfeeding support and recovery after both vaginal and C-section deliveries,” explains Beth.

Haley took the class when she was 12 weeks pregnant and is grateful she took it so early.

“I’ve been following the nutrition advice and doing the pelvic floor exercises ever since. I can already tell a difference—I have much less urgency, which was a struggle before,” she says.

Pelvic floor health during pregnancy and postpartum is one focus of the class.

“We address important topics like pelvic floor health and strategies to prevent urinary leakage. Our goal is to provide women with a roadmap to feel empowered throughout their pregnancy journey,” Beth adds.

Class participants receive a “goodie bag” filled with useful postpartum supplies, breastfeeding essentials, and even a perineal stretching tool.

“The giveaway items alone probably cover the cost of the class. They provide us with so much,” Haley notes.

Additionally, participants receive a binder filled with comprehensive content from the class.

“I love having my binder to refer back to for my exercises. It’s been a great resource,” Haley says.

The class also covers labor and delivery techniques, including various birthing positions, labor techniques, and pushing strategies.

“Even if moms opt for an epidural, they still have birthing options. Learning about different positions and techniques is really helpful,” Haley explains.

Now in her third trimester, Haley continues to use the knowledge she gained from the class to stay strong during pregnancy and prepare for birth and postpartum recovery.

“This class is incredibly valuable for expectant moms. When you become pregnant, your mindset shifts to focusing on the baby, but it’s important for moms to take care of themselves too,” she says.  By Madison Loethen

Fit For Delivery

When is the class?

The class will take place on the following Saturdays:

• April 12, 8 AM – 12 PM

• August 2, 8 AM – 12 PM

• October 25, 8AM – 12 PM

Cost

Enrollment for a single class is $150. Scholarships are available for anyone who requires fi nancial assistance to participate.

Email Monica.Collins@ boone.health to receive information on obtaining a scholarship or donating to the scholarship fund..

How do I sign up?

Email Elizabeth.Frazier@ boone.health, stating you wish to participate, and you will receive all the information to reserve your spot.