You are excited and maybe a little nervous now that you have found out that you are pregnant. You are probably asking yourself several questions like:
· What happens during childbirth?
· How do I know if I am in labor?
· How do I know if I am having false labor?
· Do I want to have a natural birth or do I want pain medication?
All of these are normal and natural questions to be asking, and there are many types of classes that you can take to help you prepare for giving birth to your baby.
Finding the right class might be a little time consuming, but you want to find ones that works with your schedule, works with your budget, and one that will address your personal needs. It is best to start looking for one as soon as you can, so that you can get the full benefit of the program before the birth of your baby.
There are many different types of classes you can choose from, but the three main philosophies are the Dick-Read philosophy, Lamaze, and the Bradley Method or also known as "husband-coached childbirth". All three of these methods offer something different.
· Dick-Read Method: If you wanting to learn more about the actual process of childbirth, and then have the focus mainly be about the mother, the changes she undergoes, and finally the consequences, aspect, and goal of giving birth, then the Dick-Read philosophy could be the one you would choose. Even though the focus is mainly on the pregnant mother, the father is also encouraged to participate in the birthing process as well.
· Lamaze focuses on both you and your partner. They teach breathing techniques to help deal with the pain associated with childbirth and give information about the birthing process without the use of pain medication. This technique is perhaps one of the most well known methods associated with childbirth.
· The Bradley method educates your partner in ways to coach you during the birthing process and its main focus is home births. They also teach techniques to deal with pain without the use of pain medication. This philosophy is focused on couples sharing the birthing process together.
If you and your partner are having trouble picking a childbirth class to attend, ask your coworkers, friends, family, and doctor which ones they would recommend.
When you have found a class you interested in, make sure to check out the instructors credentials to ensure that they are qualified to teach that particular class. Also remember, if the class is not working out for you do not hesitate to drop out of the class. These classes are supposed to be for you, your partner, and your baby. Let the instructor know that it is not working out for you and if they can suggest a class more suited for your needs.
