Childbirth Classes?
Childbirth Classes?
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Q:
Why should I take childbirth classes?
A: There are a variety of reasons for taking childbirth classes, but the most obvious one is so you will be prepared for the birth of your baby. Ideally, you should have some instruction early in your pregnancy so you can learn about issues such as choosing a pregnancy care provider, choosing the place where you will give birth, nutrition for pregnancy, common tests and procedures done during pregnancy, and how to ease the common complaints of early pregnancy (morning sickness, fatigue, etc.). Some pregnancy classes also introduce relaxation and breathing techniques which will help you during your labor. The reason for this is so that your body will learn to respond to certain cues automatically (relaxation isn't as easy as it seems). Later in pregnancy, a childbirth class will focus mostly on preparation
for the birth. This is a unique time for couples to learn a lot about
one another: what their hopes and fears are facing parenthood, what they
wish to achieve through this birth, and how to grow with one another through
this experience. Fathers or other chosen partners will learn how
best to support the mother in labor with a variety of labor-coping tools.
Mothers will learn about the different options available to her in her
chosen birth environment and will most likely be instructed on how to develop
a birth plan. Of course, relaxation and breathing are important elements
for each class. Some classes also devote some time to the postpartum
period, where parents will learn about breastfeeding, different parenting
styles, becoming a family, emotional and physical
Many first-time parents are under the impression that the only people who teach childbirth classes are nurses who teach in the hospital where you decide to give birth. This couldn't be further from the truth. Many childbirth educators today are independent instructors in private practice. They have been trained and/or certified by notable organizations. There are a variety of certifying organizations for childbirth educators. It is important to shop around so you can choose a class that is right for you. Most importantly, you should choose a class that is consumer-oriented. For information on the different organizations and their birth philiosophy, you can visit the websites below: The Bradley (r) Method (AAHCC) International Childbirth Education Association (ICEA) Lamaze International (formerly
ASPO/Lamaze)
Copyright, Valerie Malott 1999 |
