Choosing Prenatal Classes

By Janice Pearson

Why Take Lessons For Something So Natural?

Isn't birth something we should all do naturally? Well, of course. The problem is that unless we have observed it as part of the natural life cycle, we have difficulty with it. In the past or in some modern cultures, children grow up seeing women pregnant, birthing, breastfeeding and parenting. They learn without even realizing it that these events are normal. When their turn comes, they copy what they've learned and benefit from the other women around them. In our present-day lifecircle, how we observe birth is through other people's (horror) stories, movies, novels, etc. Sometimes this serves only to make us fearful and that fear can intensify the pain that goes along with giving birth.

What's In It For Me?

Prenatal classes allow you to:

1. Learn about the process of natural birth and the complications and interventions you might go through
2. Learn decision making skills
3. Learn coping techniques that will help you feel less pain during labour and recover more easily after birth
4. Meet with couples whose babies will be born around the same time as yours

How Do I Choose A Class?

Everyone has different needs. Think about what you need to learn and, most importantly, how you learn. Some people like lectures, others like lots of visuals, while others have to have hands on! Or you may like a mixture of teaching styles. A good class is one that combines many different ways of teaching (demonstration, videos, practice, lecture, handouts) so that every learning style is covered.

Where Do I Find A Class?

There are several options. Your caregiver may give you a list. If not, here are some suggestions. Your local public health department The prenatal education department of your hospital Your midwife The Yellow Pages under Prenatal Classes Friends who have had babies

What Types of Things Will I Learn?

There are many subjects covered in different classes. Here are the most common: Early bird class - exercise, nutrition, lifestyle habits, fetal development, early choices for birth and afterwards Preparation for birth - normal labour, labour complications, obstetrical interventions, coping techniques (relaxation, breathing, positioning, massage, etc), the newborn, immediate postpartum - for first-time or refresher Baby care - bathing, diapering, soothing a crying baby, equipment, dealing with fatigue, infant feeding Breastfeeding - although this may be covered throughout a prenatal series, some centres have dedicated classes

You may also find specialty classes, such as Siblings, Multiples, Fathers, Returning to work, etc.

Who Teaches The Classes?

In some centres, a nurse who has experience in obstetrics is considered to be the best person to teach you. In other centres, the nursing aspect is considered less important than the ability to teach. As well, some midwives like to teach their own clients. A good teacher has a background of obstetrical knowledge (with or without nursing or midwifery) as well as studies in Adult Education. Prenatal teachers are also called childbirth educators and they may have a certificate in childbirth education - from agencies like the International Childbirth Education Association (ICEA), ASPO-Lamaze Association, a community college or an independent training centre.

Why Are Some Classes More Expensive Than Others?

In some provinces, the (provincial or municipal) government funds classes. They often focus on healthy pregnancy and may be less focussed on birth or postpartum. Some hospitals subsidize their own classes by either fully funding them or by paying all of the expenses involved with teaching. Books may tell you that hospital classes are designed to teach you to be "good clients." This sometimes true so ask your hospital prenatal education department what they teach about birth options. Finally, some classes are funded fully by the fees from clients. So the cost of classes does not necessarily reflect the quality. If money is not an object, go with the ones that feel right for you.

When Should I Take Classes?

Early bird classes are usually taken during the second trimester, while preparation for birth classes are usually taken around the seven-month mark. The best time to call to book a class is when your pregnancy has hit the 12-13 week mark. In this way, you may take advantage of all the classes that are available.

If I'm Having A Cesarean, Do I Still Need Classes?

Yes, because it will help you normalize the experience as well as allow you to learn life skills, such as decisionmaking and relaxation, which you will need no matter how your baby is born. You can find classes specifically about cesarean delivery and all prenatal classes talk about cesareans and recovery.

If This Isn't My First Birth, Do I Still Need Classes?

It's up to you. What you need to know is that subsequent births bring different concerns. Pregnancy, birth and recovery are not the same physically or emotionally. As well, parents are concerned about how their first child will react to the pregnancy and the new baby. Finally, the review class is a great place to talk about the first birth, what went well, what didn't, and what this means for the next birth.