How to choose the right childbirth class

You’re pregnant and have many decisions to make from the color of baby’s nursery to cloth or disposable diapers, bottle or breast feeding and more. One of the most important things you can do for yourself and your baby is to choose a childbirth class to help prepare you for labor. Childbirth educator and doula Ami Burns explains how to choose the right childbirth class for you.

A childbirth class helps prepare you for labor and delivery and the more you know about your options, the more confidence you’ll have in the process of giving birth.

What method of childbirth should I learn?

Popular options include Lamaze -- a philosophy that promotes birth as a normal, natural process, Bradley -- aka “husband coached childbirth,” and HypnoBirthing -- a method that includes deep relaxation and visualization techniques.

Many moms swear by certain methods, while others favor a more general approach. Some classes offer a combination of styles. A comprehensive class will include information about what to expect during labor, including when to go to the hospital, time to practice natural comfort measures like breathing, relaxation and positions for labor as well as a discussion about medication options and common interventions that may become necessary. Some instructors also allot time to talk about getting started breastfeeding and how to navigate the early days and weeks of life with a new baby.

Where should I attend classes?

Your hospital may offer childbirth education and other classes for new parents like breast-feeding, baby care and CPR. This is a great way to not only learn about labor and birth, but also take a tour of the labor, delivery and postpartum rooms. Not to mention finding out where to park and which hospital entrance to use if you’re in labor at two in the morning!

Some parents-to-be seek out independent instructors who favor a holistic approach to labor and birth. Independent classes may be smaller than those held at a hospital, allowing more time for questions and group discussion. Specialized classes for moms planning to deliver at home or in a birth center may also be available.

What if I’m too busy to attend classes?

A traditional, weekly series of classes is a nice way to build community with other expectant families while giving you the opportunity to digest information you’ll learn and prepare questions before the next class. But for many busy parents-to-be, attending an ongoing series isn’t realistic. A condensed weekend format or private classes that can be held in your home on your schedule are good options to consider.

There’s no “right” way to learn about labor

One method isn’t better than another – check out the different classes available in your community by talking to your healthcare provider, friends or searching online. Clarify your goals for labor and do some research to find the best class for you.