What do childbirth classes cover

What is the cost? How many couples will be in the class? How often will the class meet? Will various birth philosophies be taught in the class? For example, will a woman want an un-medicated birth to learn coping skills for pain relief? Will a woman wanting an epidural to learn how to cope with a medicated labor and birth? Does this location offer different types of childbirth classes?

For example, some locations offer classes on childbirth basics or natural childbirth , in addition to a refresher class and a sibling class. Where do I find a childbirth education class? Or you can find information about childbirth education classes through: Your physician or hospital Family and friends Doulas Pregnancy centers Specific childbirth education organizations Community resource centers Compiled using information from the following sources: 1. Can I get pregnant if…?

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Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Registry Builder New. Your Guide to Birthing Classes. Medically Reviewed by Andrei Rebarber, M. Medical Review Policy All What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals. Getty Images. Considering a childbirth education class? Back to Top. What are some common complications during labor and delivery? Pregnancy and childbirth insurance reimbursement. Hypnobirthing -- The Mongan Method.

Tidelands Health. Care New England Health System. Childbirth and parenting education. Join now to personalize. Childbirth classes give you a preview of what to expect when your baby is born. They typically cover the signs of labor, the types of pain management for labor, the stages of childbirth, possible childbirth complications and how your medical team will handle them , and newborn care.

There are many styles of birthing classes, so be sure to choose one that matches your childbirth philosophy. You and your partner can sign up for childbirth classes at a hospital or birthing center, or take an online birthing class at home. Photo credit: iStock. What topics do childbirth classes cover? When's the best time to take a birthing class? Where to find birthing classes How much do childbirth classes cost? Popular types of birthing classes. Common topics covered include: The signs of labor When to call your ob-gyn or midwife when you're in labor The stages of labor and delivery Different delivery methods Pain management techniques for labor Ways your partner can support you during labor Techniques for relaxing and coping during labor While approaches vary depending on the type of class you take more on that below , the common goal of a childbirth class is to prepare you for childbirth, help you make informed decisions about the birthing process, and ease your fears about labor and delivery.

Where to find birthing classes Most hospitals offer birthing classes as part of their educational programs, or you can take one through an independent instructor or organization. Online birthing classes The COVID pandemic brought many real-world activities into the virtual space, including birthing classes.

How much do childbirth classes cost? Popular types of birthing classes Some birthing classes teach a particular childbirth method, but many — such as the ones offered at a hospital — don't promote any particular technique.

Here's a look at some of the most well-known options for childbirth classes: Lamaze class According to Lamaze International, the goal of its classes is to help women make more informed choices about their healthcare. The Bradley method The Bradley birth method embraces the idea that childbirth is a natural process and that, with the right preparation, most women can avoid pain medication and other medical interventions during labor and birth.

HypnoBirthing classes HypnoBirthing, or the Mongan Method, teaches you how to deeply relax your body using self-hypnosis to have a more natural and comfortable birth. The Alexander technique The Alexander Technique is a movement-awareness method that can help you physically prepare for pregnancy, childbirth, and parenthood. Sources BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world.

Featured video. The Bradley Method of childbirth. Can I make labor less painful? Video call. This information is for your general information and use only and is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes.

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