Why Childbirth Education?
THE WHY
Maybe you or your partner are wondering, “why take a childbirth class?” or “isn’t this natural and my instincts will just kick in?” And while I do believe there are some maternal instincts that are activated in the labor and birth process, there are tremendous benefits to taking a class.
In the day and age of information overload, it can be overwhelming to sift through all of it to figure out what options you have and what is actually evidence based. A childbirth class funnels the endless information out there down to what is important and presents it in a way that will help you actually remember it when it’s baby time!
I tell my birth clients, the more knowledge you acquire, the more your anxiety will decrease and your confidence will increase. That confidence will help you to relax more in labor and let your labor progress as it should.
Life is busy and while we sometimes have the best of intentions to read all the books, listen to all the podcasts, etc. sometimes we need dedicated time and space set aside to learn about the childbirth process. A childbirth class will give you that time and space, and bonus; it can help the birthing mother and her partner get on the same page with what to expect and communicate their needs and desires.
Taking a childbirth class will give you a chance to practice hands on some of the positions, breathing techniques, and relaxation strategies while under the direction of a certified birth doula.
Studies have shown that participation in a childbirth education class can reduce the number of interventions in your birth experience, including making it less likely to be induced and lower the usage of analgesics.
Hospital Class vs. Private Childbirth Education
Why should I take a private childbirth class, when the ones at the hospital I will be birthing at are less money? Good question! For one, your experience in one of my classes will be personalized. While I will absolutely teach you the basics of labor, birth, positions, relaxation techniques, etc. I will also cater specifically to your concerns, anxieties and questions. You will also find that a private childbirth class will be more comprehensive, covering far more content because I am not restricted to utilize hospital curriculum. This will teach you far more about what options you have in your birth experience. It is said in the birth world, that hospital classes often teach you far more about hospital policies and how to be a compliant patient, than truly equipping you for a positive birth experience. A private class is also flexible to your schedule! I will work with you to find times that work well for you and your partner. I will also ensure that you get plenty of hands on practice, so you go into birth feeling confident to apply what you have learned. And of course, a private class with me means you get an experienced local birth doula as a resource to you! I have worked in the local hospitals and birth centers, I know many of the providers, and I can help equip you with any trusted referrals you may need. Midwife, OB, Postpartum doula, pelvic floor specialist, lactation consultant… I’ve got you covered!