Childbirth Education

Why Take a Class

Types of Classes

Questions to Consider

Questions to Consider

Not all childbirth classes are the same. Many are geared for a medicated hospital birth and much of the time is spent discussing medical interventions. Some classes incorporate deep relaxation and meditation as a way to transform “pain” to “surges” and change your expectations of what you will feel. Some classes focus on the birth team; your partner, doula or care provider as your source of strength. Still others have perfected their own brand of techniques to expand the bag of tricks and tools you will bring with you to the birth. And then you might come across a class that incorporates many different ideas.

Childbirth is not something you can plan, but you can learn more about your options and what you want out of your labor experience. When you are searching for an education class there are many things to consider:

• What are the instructor’s personal beliefs regarding birth?
• Does this instructor support your desire for a hospital birth, home birth, or birth center birth?
• Does she believe strongly that one is better/safer than another?
• Does she teach according to evidence-based care?
• How does she stay current on medical research?
• Does she belong to a peer group, subscribe to a journal, run a support group?
• What organizations is she a member of? International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN), Le Leche League?
• How long ago did she certify with her education organization?
• How much experience does she have?
• Is this a crash course in childbirth, or a full series of classes?

The benefits of a whole series is a true assimilation of the theories presented, and an opportunity to really incorporate the ideas into your beliefs surrounding birth. One day classes are beneficial for a refresher or perhaps a unique time constraint; but in general, just like induction, it is best not to try to rush a process that takes time unless you really have to.

• Does your learning style match the instructor’s educating style? Ie; verbal exercises like class discussions, emotional exercises like visualizations, right brain activities through art, or left brain activities like lecture where the instructor really “teaches” instead of facilitates the class.
• Will you be attending with your partner, or another labor support person?
• How many guests are you allowed to bring with you?
  What if your sister/friend will also be supporting you at the birth?
• Can she come to classes with you and your partner?
• Does the educator cover the importance of exercise and nutrition in your preparation?
• Breastfeeding?
• Postpartum?
• Basic baby care and safety?
• Is she available after the class series is over if you would like more information at the end of your pregnancy?

There are a many benefits to taking a good childbirth education class. It is well worth you time and money to become educated about current birthing issues and debates since this is not something you can take back. It’s like any other first in your life, if only you had done this… known that… chosen the other thing….

Our induction and cesarean rates are very high. A class affords the opportunity to be exposed to other women seeking the same experience you are, and can give you a sense of trust in your body, your baby, and the incredible process of childbirth.