Welcome to Ottawa Childbirth Education Association

OCEA recognizes birth as a normal and natural event in a woman’s life. It is our goal to present options to expectant women and their partners to help them feel empowered to make choices that lead to a positive childbirth experience.

The OCEA was established as a grassroots, home based organization in 1974. We are a registered not for profit organization. Over the last 35 years we have evolved into the largest independent organization providing prenatal classes in Ottawa offering Labour and Delivery Prenatal Education, the Bringing Baby Home class, CPR and Infant Massage.

Our philosophy is consistent with the International childbirth Education Association “Freedom of choice Based on a Knowledge of Alternatives”. In addition, OCEA follows the The Six Lamaze Healthy Birth Practices here .  Collectively, the CEA teachers hold certification and training through Lamaze International, DONA, CAPPA, IAIM, La Leche League and St. John's Ambulance. 

We offer classes downtown, in Ottawa East at 10th Line road, and in Carleton Place.  As of January 2012 CEA will be taking over classes formerly offered by Julie Keon, Mothernurture Childbirth Services at the Midwifery Collective.

You can reach us 7 days a week by email.  We are accessible by phone alternating between daytime and evening hours.  We strive to return calls within 24 hours.