How to Choose a Childbirth Class
One of the best things you can do before giving birth is attend a childbirth class. These birthing classes will give you and your partner a lot of information and support to help you during labor and birth. You'll get to meet other pregnant couples and share advice and concerns with them. And taking part in a childbirth course will increase your confidence as you face the big event.
Childbirth Classes: What's the Difference?
Not all childbirth courses are created equal. Some are primarily lectures and merely inform you about what you can expect when you go to the hospital for delivery. Others are more interactive. Interactive courses are kept small, usually with no more than 10 couples; this allows for one-on-one instruction in practicing comfort measures and creates a more intimate atmosphere in which to share advice and concerns. Some courses discuss the choices available to you in terms of pain relief, optional procedures (such as episiotomy), and where to deliver (at home, in a hospital, or in a birthing center). Be an inquisitive consumer as you look for a course; don't choose one just because it's held at your hospital or close by.
What a Good Childbirth Class Offers
Here are things you should look for when shopping around:
To learn more about childbirth courses and to find one in your area, visit the Web sites of Lamaze International and the ICEA.
There's much more to learn about what you'll experience in the third trimester and while giving birth in our comprehensive guides.
Read more about Pregnancy
Stocking Up on Baby Basics
Going into a store that's bulging with baby goods can be a little overwhelming. Here's a list of basic layette items to get you started for your baby's early days. Some of the amounts may seem like a lot, but with extra items on hand, you won't have to do laundry every day.
Stocking Up on Baby Basics
Going into a store that's bulging with baby goods can be a little overwhelming. Here's a list of basic layette items to get you started for your baby's early days. Some of the amounts may seem like a lot, but with extra items on hand, you won't have to do laundry every day.
Join a World of Support
through Pregnancy and Parenthood.
TRACK WITH TOOLS
LEARN WITH EXPERTS
GET REWARDED
Where You Already Belong