How
will I care for myself in pregnancy? How can I be more comfortable? What
are some warning signs I should be aware of in pregnancy? When should
I call my doctor? What are my options for comfort in labor? How long will
I be in labor? How will I care for myself after the baby is born? How
will I care for the baby once the baby is born? What if I need a c-section?
These are some important questions that will be answered in your childbirth
preparation classes.
There are many benefits to attending childbirth classes for soon to be parents. Much of what is reviewed in class is information for a lifetime of healthy living. The relaxation techniques, nutrition and exercise tips, and communication between Mom and Dad/coach are all important for pregnancy, labor, and for life! Knowledge is power. If you know what to expect, you will have a much easier time in labor and delivery. In addition, many childbirth preparation classes include baby care basics, so you don’t want to miss that valuable information.
Most childbirth preparation classes teach a combination of relaxation techniques: Lamaze breathing, guided imagery, aromatherapy, massage techniques, and other coping tools that you'll utilize in labor. If it is your first baby, you don't know what labor will be like. The more you "practice" the better the relaxation techniques will work for you. Most hospital programs also offer information on other comfort options including pain medication and epidural anesthesia. Even if you know you want to have an epidural, it is best to wait until you are in active labor so the chances of your needing other medical interventions might be less. So you should still practice relaxation techniques for the beginning of your labor. It is helpful to know the position you need to be in for the epidural to be placed and to learn what other interventions might occur. You will always feel more at ease when you can learn about these things in a comfortable setting and have time to think about the information. Then as the doctor or nurse are explaining things to you in labor, you will be more relaxed because the information will not be brand new to you.
A tour of the hospital will most likely be included, so you can begin to feel comfortable with where you will have your baby. The classes might be held right at the hospital so you get to peek at the babies in the nursery each week! You get to meet other couples who are expecting about the same time as you, and many go on to form play groups and lifelong friendships with those that they meet. The classes are usually about eight to ten hours in length and packed with important information to make your pregnancy, labor, and first weeks with baby much smoother. Many programs offer weeknight classes that you attend for a few weeks or weekend classes that you attend all in one day. These are growing more popular for couples who both work.
In addition to childbirth preparation class, you can ask about what other educational offerings are available. Breastfeeding, the most healthy choice for you and baby, might be included in class or might be a separate class. Infant CPR including first aid and safety for the first year is a very valuable class to take. Refresher classes are available for couples having a second baby, and who want to review the information from childbirth preparation class.
Don't forget the siblings! Many hospitals offer class and tour of the birthplace so that soon to be big brothers and sisters feel included too! Infant Massage class strengthens the parent baby bond, soothes colic, and more. Exercise/yoga classes are popular during pregnancy and really help you practice your relaxation and breathing for labor. After delivery, find out about classes that you and baby can both attend like a mom and baby yoga class. Finally, ask about a parenting class series or club for new parents you could attend. This will provide you with information about taking care of baby for the first year. It is also a great place to meet other parents!
Replace your fears of the unknown with knowledge, so you can enjoy this special time in your life!