Why You Should Take a Childbirth Class

If you are expecting a child for the first time you may be debating whether or not you should take a childbirth class. Many women opt not to get childbirth education for two major reasons.

First, there is the cost. Some classes are very expensive. Many are set up in a module-style where you and your spouse or labor coach meet with an instructor and other couples once or twice a week for several weeks. These sessions can be costly, easily setting you back $100 to $200.

Secondly, there is the idea that, "Women have gotten through it for thousands of years and they didn't have classes, so I can too."

First I will address the former. In most areas where childbirth education is offered there are also consolidated sessions available. When my husband and I were expecting our first child our work schedule didn't allow us to meet during the evenings for several weeks. The cost of the class was also a factor that led us to look for an alternative class. The compact sessions generally run for about six to eight hours on a Saturday, which works better for many busy schedules. Also, this type of class is often a fraction of the cost. I believe we paid $65 for the class, which included a free book, breakfast, lunch and several baby care items.

Now as to the, "I'm a woman, I'll get through it," mentality. I completely agree that a woman's body was designed for labor and that left to itself, the woman's body knows what to do. The amazing benefit that comes with taking a childbirth class is the confidence it brings to a woman. Rather than screaming through labor, scared and confused as women did in the days of yore, women can now go into labor understanding what is taking place with their body and being able to measure their progress. When the doctor says, "You are eight centimeters and 100% effaced," rather than screaming frantically, "What does that mean?" You can feel confident that you have at most another 45 minutes before you can push your little one into the world.

There are also several books out there that can help with your labor preparation that may be checked out at your local library or read at Barnes and Noble over a cup of decaf coffee. If you have the wherewithal and it fits into your schedule, taking a childbirth class is a decision you will never regret.