Childbirth Classes in Utica, NY – Empowered Birth & Beyond Workshop
A holistic childbirth preparation class for parents in Utica, New Hartford, and the Mohawk Valley.
If you’re looking for childbirth classes in Utica, NY, the Empowered Birth & Beyond Workshop offers a holistic way to prepare for labor, birth, and early parenthood.
Hosted by Ania Mroczek, RN, IBCLC and her team, this childbirth class helps expectant parents in Utica, New Hartford, and the Mohawk Valley feel confident, informed, and empowered for birth.
Imagine walking into your birth feeling calm and excited, not overwhelmed and scared
Imagine stepping into your journey of parenthood with unshakeable confidence, feeling empowered to advocate for your birth and feeding choices. No more second-guessing or fear of the unknown—just the strength and knowledge you need to thrive. This is the transformation waiting for you.
Our Next 6 Week Thursday Series Childbirth Class/Workshop is planned for Fall 2026
I want you to imagine…
Birth
You walk into the delivery room radiating confidence, knowing exactly what to expect and equipped with practical tools to handle whatever comes your way. You can acces the inner strenght that lives within you.
Feeding
Feeding your baby becomes clear and manageable. You understand your baby’s needs, navigate feeding challenges with ease, and create a loving bond that sets the stage for a thriving relationship.
Parenting
Stepping into your new role with confidence – with a good understanding of normal newborn behaviors, you’ve transformed anxiety into excitement as you embrace your new role as a mother
Hi, I'm Ania – I'm dedicated to transforming birth experiences for Families in the Mohawk Valley Families
My journey to creating this workshop comes from over 14 years as a Labor & Delivery nurse and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant
I’ve walked alongside countless families through the joys and challenges of pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding. But I’ve also witnessed how the medical system often fails new parents, leaving them feeling rushed and unheard.
As a mother of four, I remember vividly—how I felt when decisions were made for me without my input, or how I struggled to find my footing as a new mom amidst the chaos of conflicting advice. I knew that mothers deserve to have a voice and be heard. It was this realization that drove me to team up with my amazing colleagues, Anastasia Brittney and Erica to create a childbirth class that is not just informative but transformative. We wanted to empower parents to discover their inner strength and navigate their unique journeys with confidence.
Meet Brittney Watkins
Doula, CLC
Seven years ago, when my daughter was placed on my chest for the first time, my entire world changed. I was euphoric after her birth, but as the days passed, something shifted. I found myself replaying moments that didn’t feel quite right. Why were there times I felt powerless, alone, and afraid? Why did my provider break my water without my consent? Why did the nurse question my desire for an unmedicated birth? Why was I told I had to push a certain way?
Why were my instincts telling me one thing while hospital policies dictated another?
Fast forward to my next two births—this time, everything was different. I had a new mindset, knowledge, and unwavering support. I was prepared and educated. I knew my options and found my voice. I surrounded myself with a team who respected my autonomy and honored my choices. I was able to experience birth as it should be – beautiful, powerful, and sacred.
Birth pushes you to your limits, but it also reveals your strength.
This is why I became a birth doula—to stand beside women in their most vulnerable, life-altering moments of birth. My mission is to help women replace fear with confidence, to remind them that however they birth their babies, they can trust their bodies, their instincts, and their strength.
Your voice matters. Your choices matter. And you deserve a birth experience filled with confidence and empowerment.
Meet Anastasia Kot
RN, Lamaze Instructor
Meet Erica Ciccone
Birth Doula, CLC
My passion for supporting families through their breastfeeding journey has stemmed from my own experiences as a mom of four, I have had the great joy of breastfeeding, all of my children, and I love to help any other family get to experience that same joy.
Not only have I experienced the great joys of breastfeeding, I experienced many concerns and challenges from oral ties, latch difficulties, jaundice, low blood sugars, NICU time, breastfeeding while pregnant, and tandem nursing to name a few throughout each and every journey, which I realized the importance of support during this time.
As a mama of four with 3 VBACs under my belt, I’ve learned the power of support and empowerment in achieving a positive birth experience.
With a deep love for all things birth and breastfeeding, I’m here to support you in achieving your goals and creating an empowering birth and breastfeeding experience
This isn't going to be another dry, boring childbirth class
We're here to share our hearts, wisdom, and real-world experience to help you navigate this journey with confidence.
Because when you understand your options and have the right support, you can make choices that truly feel right for YOUR family.
on the inside
Course Curriculum: What You’ll Learn
Week 1: Understanding Birth Physiology & Family Vision
– Discover the amazing changes in your body as you prepare for birth.
– Create a personalized birth plan that aligns with your values and goals.
Week 2: Labor Progress & Comfort Techniques
– Equip yourself with practical tools to manage labor pain.
– Learn effective comfort measures and position changes for a more empowering experience.
Week 3: Your Hospital Game Plan
– Understand common procedures and learn how to communicate your wishes.
– Master the “BRAIN” method for confident decision-making.
Week 4: Bonding and Thriving with Your Newborn
– Gain insights into the importance of the “Golden Hour”, and magic of Breast Crawl
– Prepare for the realities of the fourth trimester with confidence.
Week 5: Nurturing Your Breastfeeding Journey
– Understand how breastfeeding works and how to avoid common challenges.
– Develop a self-care approach that prioritizes your needs.
Week 6: Postpartum Survival Guide
– Get bulletproof tips for smoother transitions into motherhood.
– Learn about self-care strategies for postpartum recovery
But Wait, That's not all! Here are our Very Special Bonuses for you
Bonus
Free session with Anastasia
Discover what really matters to you for birth
Articulate your wishes into clear, simple words
Feel confident to speak up about your wishes
Meet home or online - easy and comfortable
Bonus
Free consultation with Brittney or Erica
Get personalized plan for feeding your baby
Meet before or after birth - your choice
Virtual or in your home - whatever works best
Real help from someone who gets it
Bonus
Optional 15% off a Doula Package with Brittney or Erica
Save on continuous labor and birth support
Prenatal, birth, and postpartum support
Expert guidance from certified doulas
Continues Support that helps you feel empowered
Next Workshop planned for Fall 2026
What My Clients Say
She helped keep me calm and focused throughout the entire process, always knowing exactly what I needed in the moment. Her presence brought so much comfort and reassurance to both me and my family.
Even after the birth, she continued to check in on me and offered guidance with breastfeeding, which meant so much during those first overwhelming days. Her care didn’t stop once the baby arrived, and that really shows how dedicated she is to the families she supports.
I am so grateful to have had her by my side. She is truly amazing at what she does, and I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a compassionate, knowledgeable, and supportive doula
Its not looked upon much but if you are going to have a child and need help on understanding things and or ways to make things more comfortable for yourself, Mohawk Valley Lactation is where youll find your help, between Erica, Brittany, Ania, They are all awesome, and wonderful ladies who are so encouraged with seeing you all succeed!!! Don't feel awkard and or freaked out by the discussion its so real, and these topics are normal, we are woman who deal with it all....
From finding the right doctor, to making sure you are prepared to being ready and feeling ready to having all the divided support and advocating for what you want, it all matters and its worth it for your little one
She was in the failure to thrive zone for weight when I first came in at 4 1/2 weeks. We bought formula to have on hand because her inability to transfer milk had tanked my supply. I wa so scared and sad for her. She was sooooo scrawny. (But still bright eyed and hopeful) Some nights we were down to the last bag of pumped milk in the freezer and it felt like my breasts were soft and empty… but the plan Ania suggested for me worked and I started to wake up mornings with breasts full of milk for my little one. We never did open the formula. Then we addressed the continued issues with her breast feeding until she was nursing normally finally at 10 1/2 weeks. Now she is 15th percentile and nursing is a joy for us both.
She is my third, and I never had issues with my first two so I was not expecting to struggle. I don’t know what I would have done if I hadn’t found Ania.
P.s even if you’ve had children before (breastfeeding experience), never be afraid to reach out for support/advice/help from a lactation consultant.
Frequently asked questions
Q: How is this different from other childbirth classes?
A: Unlike other classes we focus not only on supporting your birth vision while honoring your values and goals but preparing you for postpartum period. Our small-group workshop dives deep into practical tools, hands-on practice, and personalized support. You’ll learn not just what to expect, but exactly how to handle each stage of birth and early parenting. Plus, you get the unique perspectives and expertise of three birth professionals – a Labor & Delivery nurse, childbirth educator, a doula, and an IBCLC.
Q: What if me and my partner can’t make all six sessions?
A: While we encourage everyone to attend every session, we understand schedules can be challenging. We provide resources for any missed classes, and we’re happy to catch you up on key points at the next session you attend.
Q: What if I end up needing a C-section? Is this workshop still valuable?
A: Absolutely! We cover all types of birth scenarios, including C-sections. The communication tools, advocacy skills, and postpartum preparation you’ll learn are valuable no matter how your baby arrives. Plus, our feeding and newborn care information applies to all parents.
Q: I’m not sure if I want to breastfeed. Is this workshop still right for me?
A: Yes! We provide information about all feeding options and support whatever choice works best for your family. Our goal is to help you understand your options and feel confident in your decisions, whether that includes breastfeeding, pumping, formula, or any combination.
Q: When’s the best time during pregnancy to take this workshop?
A: Most families find it ideal to start the workshop between 20-32 weeks of pregnancy. This gives you enough time to practice what you learn and feel prepared, but not so early that you forget the information before birth.
Q: Do you offer payment plans?
A: Yes! Contact us to discuss payment options that work for your budget. We want to make this workshop accessible to all families who want to feel prepared for birth and beyond.
Q: What happens if I go into labor during the workshop series?
A: If you miss any sessions due to your baby’s arrival, we’ll provide you with all the materials and resources from missed classes. Plus, as a workshop participant, you’ll have access to our support even after your baby arrives.
Q: I’m nervous about practicing birthing techniques in front of others. How does that work?
A: We keep our groups small and create a supportive, relaxed, judgment-free environment. All practice is optional, and you can choose to participate as much or as little as you’re comfortable with. Most parents find they quickly feel at ease with our casual, friendly approach.
Q: I’m planning to deliver at a specific hospital in the Mohawk Valley area. Is this workshop appropriate for me?
A: Our workshop is designed for all expectant parents in the Mohawk Valley region. Our clients deliver at all local hospitals including:
- Wynn Hospital
- Rome Health
- Oneida Hospital
- Bassett Medical Center
- St. Joseph’s Hospital
- Upstate Community Hospital
- Crouse Hospital
We’re also delighted to support families planning home births!
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