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Childbirth Class 101

© Jaime Warren

During the last weeks of the second trimester, many expectant parents begin to sign up for childbirth preparation courses, quite simply called childbirth classes. The classes, which can vary in length from one week to several weeks, offer invaluable information regarding breathing techniques, pain relief, coaching techniques, relaxation methods, as well as hospital tours, videos and guides to hospital procedures. While not all parents will partake in these classes, they are an excellent way to prepare new parents for labor and birth.

The most important aspect of choosing a childbirth class is choosing the way in which you would like to give birth. Many expectant mothers desire a natural childbirth, free of pain relief medications, while others feel that pain relief is best suited for them. Those two decisions are very important in choosing an appropriate childbirth class, since many childbirth classes focus on one way of birthing versus the other.

For those mothers who want a natural childbirth, a class focused on teaching the two commonly used birthing techniques; Lamaze and Bradley Method would suit them best, while those who choose pain relief would be better suited in a class where the focus was not on drug free birthing methods. There are also childbirth classes for expectant mothers who are attempting a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Caesarean), which focuses on ways to best achieve their goal and avoid another Caesarean. There are childbirth classes available for different birthing techniques such as water births, hypno birthing and more.

Depending on the area and hospitals where the expectant parents live, there may be several different childbirth classes available. The best way for parents to start looking for childbirth classes is to speak with their doctor or the hospital in which the will be delivering. If parents are unable to find childbirth classes in their immediate area, they can try contacting the ICEA (International Childbirth Education Association). With such a wide variety of options, it is important for expectant parents to research the different classes available to them, in order to find one to meet their needs. Learning as much as possible about the birthing experience can be invaluable in the delivery room and choosing the appropriate childbirth class can lead to a successful and satisfying birthing experience.