Q. What are the computer requirements?

A. Our courses are optimized to run on a PC with Windows 98 or higher equipped with Internet Explorer 5.5 or later and connected to the Internet. The course is also compatible with Firefox and Apple Safari on Mac OS X 10.3 or greater.

• Ensure you have no pop-up blockers installed
• Pentium class computer
• 266 MHz processor (300+ MHz recommended)
• 32 MB RAM (64 MB recommended)
• Any Windows Based Operating System
• SVGA monitor capable of 16-bit color and 800 x 600 screen resolution
• Sound card with speakers or headphones
• Internet Explorer 5.5 or greater, or Netscape 7 or greater
• Some courses require the Macromedia Flash 6 Player or Shockwave Player. Both players are downloadable for FREE.
• Minimum 56.6 Kbps Internet connection (High Speed cable, DSL-class or broadband access recommended)

Q. My computer meets all of the requirements, but I can't see the information. What's going on?

A. Your "pop-up" blocker may be turned on. To view the class, this must be turned off on your computer. For other computer questions, e-mail whc@johnmuirhealth.com or call (925) 941-7900 (option 3) .

Q. How do I register for the online class?

A. Click here to register. If you have questions about the online registration process, contact the Women's Health Center at (925) 941-7900 (option 3)

Q. What if I purchase the online class and can't get it to work on my computer?

A. If needed, you can switch to a Prepared Childbirth class that is held at the John Muir Women's Health Center, with an additional charge for any price difference. You may choose either the Personal Class (one day) or the Low Tech Class (four evening-session). Please contact us directly at the Center to change your enrollment at (925) 941-7900 (option 3).

Q. What if I decide that the classroom sessions would be a better fit for me?

A. Please see the answer to the previous question.

Q. How can I get the most out of online childbirth education?

A. There's a lot to learn as you prepare for childbirth, so it's important to take your time. Don't rush through the information. The more carefully you read it, the more prepared you'll be for your baby's birth and the first weeks of your baby's life.

The entire series takes about three hours to complete. We recommend that you carefully read through one or two sections at a time. Take notes if you'd like and jot down any questions for the childbirth educators.

To check your knowledge, complete the exercises and test in each section. Please also complete the survey at the end of the course.

Q. How long can I access the information?

A. When you sign up for the online course, you will have 90 days to access it. During that time, you can review the information as often as you'd like. If you need more than 90 days, contact the Women's Health Center at (925) 941-7900 (option 3).

Q. What happens during the in-person class?

A. After finishing the online childbirth education, it's important to attend the scheduled in-person class session (You will select a date for this portion of the class when you register). During this 3 hour class, you will have the option to attend three different sessions on

• Breathing and Coping Techniques
• Medications including Epidurals
• C-sections and other interventions

You may choose to participate in all three sessions, stay only for the one you are interested in or sit through the same session three times in a row. In-person classes are held at the John Muir Women's Health Center, downtown Walnut Creek.

Q. How do I register for the in-person class?

A. You will select a date for the in-person portion of the class when you register. Click here to register online. If you plan to take other prenatal classes such as Breastfeeding Your Infant, Baby Basics and/or our Infant and Child CPR class, you may want to purchase the Convenience Package for a 20% discount. Customized packages are also available to meet all of your educational needs. Talk to our customer service representatives for suggestions.

Q. What if I have questions about the material when I'm going through the online class?

A. As you complete your online class, keep a log of questions for your in-class session. There will be time to practice positions, breathing and review many aspects of labor.

Q. What should I do if I have feedback on the online class?

A. Your opinion is important to us. After you've completed the modules (sections), please fill out the survey at the end.