Giving Birth In Chiang Mai       

If you are planning to give birth in Chiang Mai, an excellent resource to start with is a booklet available at Raintree Resource Center called Giving Birth in Chiang Mai.  It is a compilation of information from women who have given birth here, on everything from doctors and hospitals to hints about paperwork.

Childbirth Preparation Classes
"Throughout life, we prepare for the things that matter to us-school, career, marriage.  Giving birth should be no exception.  Because the birth event profoundly affects everyone involved, it deserves careful and thoughtful preparation."  (excerpt from Debby Amis and Jeanne Green)

Childbirth classes, especially for first time parents, are taught with a special emphasis on natural birth methods (including Bradley and active birth). These classes are taught by expat R.N.'s with many years of experience in labor and delivery. Generally four classes are held covering labor, delivery, postpartum care of mom, and baby care. One class covers breastfeeding and it can be a class just for the moms. The class schedule is flexible according to needs and time.  After the birth, one of the nurses will also do a follow-up visit, to answer any newborn questions as well as assist with breast-feeding if needed.  Not a first baby??  Refresher classes are also available as needed.  Contact Lori Rowe (lori@thaicrc.org or 053-839-343) if you are interested in the classes, which are offered free of charge. 

Massage Therapist           

Alexandra Harrison is from Australia and is a certified pregnancy massage therapist (from the Australian Institute of Applied Sciences and Mothercare Massage Australia) who has extensive practice in Thailand and is available for massage and for doula care (qualified with Childbirth International) at reasonable costs. Contact Alex at relaxandrevive@gmail.com or 084 687 3094 for either pregnancy massage or about her doula package (antenatal information, labor support and postnatal care).

Maternity Clothes  

Raintree Resource Center has four huge tubs of maternity clothes to give to you.  There are a variety of sizes and styles, so come by the Raintree to find what works for you.