Chapman Family Center

My husband and I attended Judy Chapman’s childbirth class at the Pump Station in Santa Monica yesterday. We were both looking forward to the class as we’ve heard great things about The Pump Station from friends who’ve had great experiences with classes and pre/​postnatal support there. Unfortunately, Judy’s class felt very antiquated. She spent much of the time taking a historical perspective on the birthing process, starting most sentences with «In my day…», using many of her own personal experiences as examples of what to do/​what not to do. In one instance, she shared that she’d taken an entire bottle of castor oil to help induce her own labor… and included the unfortunate consequenses that transpired. If you’re looking to learn about what the birthing experience was like in the 70’s, Judy’s class will suffice. If you want to know about the current state of birthing, pain management and modern-​day medical offerings, I would strongly urge you seek an alternate class. I do not mean for this to sound harsh — I have no doubt that Judy is a well-​intentioned person. That said, the three hours spent on the floor in her class should provide information relevant to today’s student.

I think this is literally the second review I’ve ever written on Unilocal,despite using the site for years now. Judy Chapman is amazing. She is a wonderful resource for any and everything related to birthing and caring for your baby. She has classes that she teaches or can refer you to, and they are all wonderful. I came to her for private classes in preparation for the (natural) birth of my second daughter and left feeling ready and excited, as opposed to anxious and a little scared– which was how I had been feeling for the weeks leading up to our meeting. If you are pregnant or have just had a baby and you need resources or information, CALL HER! You will not be disappointed!