Overview

Is the baby on the way? Congratulations! Now is the time to collect as much knowledge as possible about the coming new chapter of life. There are numerous channels flooded with relevant knowledge on pregnancy, delivery and baby care practices. Attending prenatal or childbirth education classes is one of the most effective ways to start the process. This guide will share insights into various aspects of these birthing classes. You’ll get an opportunity to learn about infant care, parenting and childbirth.

What are Childbirth Preparation Classes?

Giving birth to a child can be a little mysterious to several first-time mothers. They might have doubts and queries even after going through all the details. This is where childbirth education classes come into play. Taking one or a few will give you thorough practice and knowledge about the entire birth process. It will go incredibly far towards minimising your anxiety and preparing you for the wonderful journey you’re about to begin in life.

Factors for Choosing a Birthing Class

To help you out, there are plenty of channels, sources, and education providers. You can contact private instructors, hospitals, and practitioners. They offer a range of online (and offline) courses to convey comprehensive knowledge on all relevant prospects, modules, and chapters. You can select any of the different classes since they all follow their unique philosophies and teaching methods.

They all have in common that they provide pregnant women with essential knowledge and tools. It will make their childbirth experiences as positive as possible. But choosing the right birthing class is crucial. You need to examine several factors to choose an ideal childbirth preparation class.

The class you select should be compatible with your vision of an ideal birth. Make sure you know if your instructor is private and affiliated with a hospital. His or her instructions should coincide with those of your doctor.
Further, check if your birthing class is virtual or offline. Several such classes have shifted online, especially during and after COVID-19. Many of them are free as well.
Thirdly, the curriculum is the next important thing you need to consider. It must include a discussion on both C-sections and natural ways of delivery. Additionally, it should feature emotional, technical, and psychological aspects of childbirth.
Teaching methods matter a lot. You can check if questioning is admired, techniques are practised, or parents can be heard who recently delivered.
Ensure your childbirth education class doesn't include more than 5–6 couples. 10–12 couples will make the class too large. Teachers can't pay focused attention to larger gatherings.
Moreover, your new class should talk about the latest childbirth techniques and modules.
Also, you can see if there is flexibility to take a class that covers infant CPR, breastfeeding, infant first aid, etc.

Ideal timing to take a childbirth preparation class

Childbirth classes taken in the first or second trimester will provide the candidates with essential topics. It includes discussions on nutrition, foetal development, exercise, and sex. Classes in the third trimester will likely teach you about labour, delivery, and postpartum mother and child care. All in all, the best time to start taking birthing classes is when you witness labour.

Meanwhile, some experts suggest the 6th or 7th month of your pregnancy as the best time to undergo childbirth education classes. You should also remember that the sooner you register for classes, the more flexibility you’ll enjoy in terms of timing and dates.