Childbirth classes help expectant parents learn about and prepare for labor and birth. It is important during pregnancy to educate yourself about what your choices are during labor and delivery. Being fully informed is the key to true informed consent and as a parent it is our responsibility to find and seek out the information and resources to do so.
Think about all the time we take to research a product we are going to buy whether it be a new car stereo or flat screen TV. However when it comes to the choices of childbirth and pros & cons of interventions (epidurals, narcotics, inductions etc.) we rarely take the time to investigate.
Think about all the time we take to research a product we are going to buy whether it be a new car stereo or flat screen TV. However when it comes to the choices of childbirth and pros & cons of interventions (epidurals, narcotics, inductions etc.) we rarely take the time to investigate.
Considering our c-section and intervention rate in this country our personal involvment as parents and taking responsiblity drasticly needs to change. We need to stand up and take the time to research and ask questions. So once we have childbirth classes infront of us what now? Which class is best for me? Do I even know what my personal goals are for my birth?
Childbirth Classes, where to start
There are several kinds to choose from. Two of the most popular are Lamaze and Bradley, named after their developers. Most childbirth education classes use one of these two approaches. Many borrow elements from each.
Both Lamaze and Bradley teach women how to cope with labor pain. Both approaches encourage the woman's partner to participate in the labor and delivery process.Other childbirth education techniques include HypnoBirthing, Birthing From Within, and Birthworks. Learn as much as you can about each technique until you find an approach that seems right for you.
The Lamaze Method
Lamaze teaches trust and confidence in birth. Simple coping strategies for labor, including focused breathing, moving and positioning, massage, relaxation techniques, and labor support. Women receive information about medical procedures and pain relief during labor so that they can make informed choices. For more information, visit the Lamaze Web site.
The Bradley Method
The Bradley method teaches natural childbirth to women in a low risk pregnancy. It emphasizes exercise, nutrition and deep breathing. For more information, visit the Bradley Web site.
Creating a Birth Plan
Some childbirth education classes help women create a birth plan. This is a written document in which you express your preferences/goals about labor and delivery. Topics covered include where you want to deliver, who your support people will be, and the pain medications you want (if any), postpartum wants and breastfeeding wishes. If you do create a birth plan, be sure to share it with your provider ahead of time, look over with him or her and have them sign it. Then put one signed copy in your chart and take the other home with you to take to the site of delivery. You need to discuss your wishes with your care provider well in advance to make sure you are both on the same path of thinking.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Class
- What method of childbirth education is taught?
- Is the instructor certified?
- What topics are covered?
- Are relaxation and breathing techniques taught?
- What is the instructor's philosophy toward pregnancy and birth?
- Does the class help participants create their own birth plans?
- How big is the class? (Smaller classes, with fewer then 10 couples, are ideal.)
- Will the environment be welcoming and comfortable regardless of whether your childbirth partner is your spouse, partner, relative or friend?
- What is the class style: lecture or participatory?
- Are the time, length and location convenient?
- How much does the class cost?
How to Find a Childbirth Class
Ask your health care provider. Check with your insurance plan, hospital or birthing center. Ask your friends who have recently given birth.
These Web sites can help you find a class near you:
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Baby Love Childbirth Services: Childbirth & Pregnancy Resource Center www.babylovecs.com or (530) 797-4176
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Danielle O’Keefe is a childbirth educator and has been a professional doula for over 7 years, attending over 250 births.