Mercy Iowa City is the first hospital in the Corridor to offer a new online childbirth class for expectant families.

The Internet-based program, called Understanding Birth eClass, is a convenient alternative for those who cannot attend an onsite class.

The easy-to-use program guides expectant parents through a variety of information at their own pace. Users learn about the stages of labor, comfort techniques, common medical procedures, and newborn care in eight chapters. Videos, personal birth stories, 3D animations, games and activities are used throughout.

The program can be accessed on a PC or Mac with Internet access (high speed is recommended). Once registered, parents receive an access code; the online program is accessible for 120 days following initial login.

The cost for the Understanding Birth eClass $45.

For more information call Mercy On Call at 319-358-2767 or 1-800-358-2767.