Childbirth education classes in homeless shelters.

Childbirth education can have an enormous positive effect on the maternal health and birth experience of women in shelters. The childbirth educator can empower economically disadvantaged pregnant women to take personal responsibility for their childbirth outcome. The characteristics of women in shelters pose unique challenges to childbirth educators. Transient populations, different stages of pregnancy, substance abuse, nutrition deficiencies, and difficulties with the skills required for being a good parent present unusual problems and rewarding educational opportunities. With understanding, sensitivity, and commitment, the childbirth educator can prepare women in shelters to participate more actively in a healthy and informed birth experience.