Prepared Childbirthing Classes: Are They Right for You?

With all you have to prepare for when getting ready for a new baby, childbirth classes are probably the last thing on your mind. When you're happy with your doctor and have the fine details of the baby shower worked out, I suggest looking into childbirth classes. One of the best things I did to prepare myself for the job ahead was to take a class.

Forget what you've seen on tv. You don't show up to the class with your partner and sit on the floor with a bunch of pillows learning how to breathe. Childbirth classes are actually a bit more involved than that. You will learn breathing techniques and you will learn how to focus on an object when you're in pain. Coping techniques when going through a contraction are one of the things you learn in class. You will be taught many different things to try, not just how to breathe.

In my prepared childbirth class we were given very helpful pamphlets and books that contained every bit of knowledge you would ever need to know about preparing, the actual event of giving birth, and what to expect afterward. We also got a bunch of very helpful coupons for diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream and a bunch of other items.

Our instructor went over different things every week but focused on teaching us what to expect with a contraction, how to tell if you were really going into labor, the different phases of childbirth and how to get through all of it. I learned so much I didn't know and felt prepared instead of terrified when I did go into labor.

We also were allowed to tour the delivery floor during one class. We saw the rooms where we would be giving birth, where we would go if we needed to have a c-section, the nursery where our baby would be spending a lot of time. It really helped to know what to expect as far as how the show would run once we checked into the hospital.

The information I learned as far as what my baby would look like after delivery, what my body would look and feel like and what to do with all of these new things was the biggest help. I knew that my baby's cone shaped head was actually normal and would disappear within a few short days. I learned that my husband should follow the baby as he didn't really want to see what went on with me after the baby was delivered.

I learned quite a bit about the different drugs that were offered to ease contractions. I learned about the possible negative side affects these drugs would cause to me and my baby. I was able to make a birth plan that contained how I would optimally like things to run during labor and delivery.

Overall this class really prepared me for what I had in store ahead. I felt prepared and didn't go into labor terrified. I suggest any first time mom or one that hasn't done it in a while check out your local class. Your doctor should have access to this information and if they don't then check with the hospital you'll be delivering with. Good luck!