No two pregnancies are the same, so your delivery experience is totally unique to you and your baby. However, there are certain things all women will go through during pregnancy and delivery. That’s what makes prenatal classes an important addition to your pregnancy – to familiarize yourself with what to expect. If you ask around, you may get mixed reviews. It’s important, therefore, to do your research before you decide which prenatal classes are best for you during pregnancy.
With so much pregnancy-related information available through books, magazines and the Internet, a lot of people tend to think prenatal classes are merely a waste of time. However, there are still several reasons why you should consider taking these classes.
What Are Prenatal Classes About?
Prenatal classes are designed to prepare you for the birth of your son or daughter by covering aspects of pregnancy, labor, birth, and early parenting. In your third trimester, your healthcare provider may suggest you take prenatal classes. Two popular methods are Lamaze and The Bradley Method. The Bradley method focuses on natural childbirth and nutrition, while the Lamaze class teaches you about labor pain relieving strategies and breathing techniques, among other topics.
For all women, and first time moms especially, pregnancy can be difficult at times and can cause anxiety. Most of this anxiety roots from the lack of knowledge. With the help of prenatal classes, you can learn more about your pregnancy and recognize what is normal and what might require more attention. You can even figure out what are symptoms or signs that you may have to go get checked out by your healthcare provider. Knowing what to expect always makes things a bit easier!
What Will You Learn From These Classes?
Prenatal classes are usually based on lectures, discussions and exercises that are all designed to help you prepare for labor and early parenthood. If you have gone through these classes, you will be in a better position to make informed decisions when the need arises. Here are some things are usually discussed in these classes:
- How to recognize labor pains
- How the typical labor progresses
- What type of medical interventions you can expect during childbirth
- How you can prepare your body for childbirth
- Different relaxation techniques
- Different types of birthing positions
- The possible pain relief choices available and a guide to their usage and implications
- A guide to possible complications that might occur during pregnancy and the decisions you can make
- Learning about a cesarean birth
- Breastfeeding information
- The basics of childcare for a newborn
Why Do You Need These Classes?
The most valid argument that people have against prenatal classes is that birthing is second nature to women. While birthing may be natural, and pregnancy will progress similarly, these classes will prepare you for the road ahead. Understanding what will be happening to your body can actually help you cope with it in a much better way!
Why Should You Take Your Partner With You?
Prenatal classes encourage your partner to get more involved in the birth of your child. Your partner has the opportunity to learn what you will be going through, and will learn how to be supportive and appreciative of the wonderful process of pregnancy and birth. Partners can sometimes be as anxious as those who are pregnant when it comes to the birth of their child, so prenatal classes can help ease the anxiety and prepare both people for the future. Making decisions during pregnancy is always tough, so make sure you plan ahead and discuss all options with your partner. It’s always easier to make decisions when you have loved ones to help and guide you.
If you have any experiences with taking prenatal classes, let us know! Or if you prefer the Bradley method or the Lamaze method – tell us what you liked about them.
Written by Team Health & Parenting
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.
