Wondering if a childbirth preparation class is right for you? With the advancement of pharmacological pain relief, the wide array of pregnancy books on the market, and the flurry of information on the Internet, is there really anything a class can offer? We know that classes still provide the best forum for expectant couples to gain the skills and confidence they need to prepare for their new baby.
Prepared childbirth is based on the premise that the perception of pain is heightened by fear and tension, and reduced by education and relaxation. Studies show that women who are prepared and use the comfort measures from class make the birthing process easier and have a shorter labor, if all factors are favorable. We find that many women have the old-school notion that classes are all about learning how to breathe in a very specific, structured way; and that if they are considering medication, they will be ousted by the rest of the class. We find that most couples are open to considering all their labor and delivery options instead of committing up front to a lot of steadfast goals. To reflect this, the format, content, and messaging of information in childbirth preparation classes has really changed over recent years.
Today’s classes are more flexible and global in content. Childbirth preparation classes are offered in a variety of formats and lengths to address different preferences. Those who prefer networking, staging of information, and repeated practice with comfort techniques may appreciate a 4 or 6 part series class, or an adjunct class that builds on basic techniques. Those who like the “self-learning” model may prefer a one-day intensive class, and complete additional reading and practice at home. The content of childbirth preparation classes is more global and scientific in nature, providing research based information on topics not heard of in the past, such as cord blood & stem cells, early epidurals, benefits of pelvic floor exercise, perineal massage and episiotomies, and prescribed vs. spontaneous pushing. The exclusive teaching of “Breathing” has been replaced by “comfort measures”, incorporating position and movement techniques, visualization, massage, imagery, and yes, still some breathing. The emphasis is on identifying and using the techniques that work for each individual couple. A good childbirth class empowers couples to have confidence in their decisions, their body, the natural process of labor, and their ability to be wonderful parents.
Many hospitals offer a “suite” of classes for first time parents, providing tools and tangible strategies in areas such as infant massage, breastfeeding success, transitioning to parenthood, CPR and car seat safety, and newborn care and comforting measures. It is a good idea to sign up for the complete “Baby 101” package. Hospitals have carefully designed the curriculum and handouts for each class to complement each other, providing a complete educational package. Missing classes from the package, or mixing classes from different places may not offer you all the pertinent information. And, yes, the suite of classes has often been designed with both mom and dad in mind. Current research demonstrates that duration of breastfeeding is longer when dad participates in the breastfeeding class.
There are also specific advantages to taking a class at the hospital you are delivering at. It offers the couples a chance to not only see where they will be delivering their baby but to hear from the instructors, who are most likely RN’s working the units of Labor and Delivery and Post Partum about what to expect, what it’s really like. Our expectant couples love it when they enter labor and delivery or the post partum floor and have the very same nurse who was the class instructor! Some opponents of provider-based classes argue that they may focus more on care and procedures you can expect from the hospital with little emphasis on alternatives for mom. However, this has not been our experience. Knowing the procedures of the particular hospital you are delivering at, as well as understanding which alternative options are available, are key to making your labor experience rewarding as well as decreasing anxiety. If the couple knows where to park, what the admission process is, who’s going to be taking care of them, what the policies and procedures are regarding the birth of their baby, and what kind of help and support is available to them in the hospital and after they go home; all of this information can make the couple feel more relaxed and in control. For most people, having a baby is their first experience with the hospital setting and it can be scary and overwhelming. If you’ve learned the routines, heard the jargon that is used, walked the halls and seen the rooms of Labor and Delivery then it becomes more comfortable and less frightening.
What about those women who are planning on an epidural? These women still need to learn about the types of medication used, the timing of the pharmacological agents, and any side effects. Additionally, the comfort measures learned in class are not just for those desiring a natural, unmedicated birth. Relaxation and comfort exercises help during the time spent at home waiting for the doctor’s okay to come to the hospital. Most people are surprised at how strong contractions can get before the doctor says it’s time to come in. Partners really appreciate having a bag of “tools” that they can pull from to help ease their wives discomfort during this time when it’s just the two of them. Using labor comfort techniques also help while you’re in the car traveling to the hospital and waiting for the anesthesiologist to place your epidural. A recent quality analysis at our institution demonstrated that the women who received epidurals also used one or more of the comfort measures they learned in class. Lastly, believe it or not, the skill of active relaxation will serve you well when these babies become school age and you’re driving car pools. The noise level in the back of a mini van will make anyone regret not learning relaxation techniques.
Many women tell us that there have been issues and opinions that they never thought of before discussed in class. Expectant dads have told us that they feel more comfortable knowing what to expect, ways to comfort their partner, and how to define their role as a father.