Childbirth classes seem to be on the outs. Many folks I know have decided against taking a class when they're...
Childbirth classes seem to be on the outs. Many folks I know have decided against taking a class when they're expecting, and that's fine, but you should know that there are some major benefits if you do attend a childbirth class.
- It's nice to spend time with other couples who are expecting. You get a chance to swap pregnancy stories, progress, and even make a few long-term pals who will have kids the same age as yours.
- A chance to ask about questions and concerns that pop up. Each week your instructor makes time for this - which is nice because sometimes waiting for your next prenatal appointment to ask questions is frustrating.
- An opportunity to learn labor coping skills. A good instructor will cover all sorts of labor pain relief techniques from breathing, to birthing balls, to meds.
- You'll develop confidence in your birthing and parenting abilities.
- You get to spend time with your partner, and learn about their concerns.
- Research shows that expecting fathers who participate in a class are more involved with their partner's pregnancy and later the baby.
- Couples who take childbirth classes tend to rate their labor and birth experience in a more favorable light than those who don't take classes.
- How to skip childbirth classes and still get the information you need to have a healthy and happy birth.
- Take a childbirth class
- Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Class
