Childbirth Class Methods – Learn Which Class is Right for You

Mar 24, 2011
Brenda Lane

Choosing the Right Childbirth Class for You - Viven Chen

Here is a summary of all of the most popular childbirth class methods offered today to help you decide which one is the best for you!

One of the best ways to prepare to give birth is to take childbirth classes. Childbirth classes are definitely not one-size-fits all, so if you are expecting a baby, it is worth your while to research the styles or methods that suit you best. Here is a handy guide to save you time and take the mystery out of finding the right class.

Lamaze Childbirth Classes

First developed in the 1950s by Fernand Lamaze and then Elizabeth Bing in the 1960s, this is one of the oldest methods of childbirth. Today Lamaze International boasts over 2,000 members and one of the most highly recognized certification programs for childbirth educators.

Perhaps known best for its emphasis on patterned breathing techniques, Lamaze has revised their method to include a host of other pain relief measures in their classes. The majority of Lamaze certified childbirth educators offer six weeks of classes with a wide range of topics, including pregnancy discomforts, toning exercises for labor, relaxation techniques, the role of the partner, what to expect in labor, breastfeeding tips and postpartum adjustment.

The Bradley Method – Husband-Coached Childbirth Classes

One of the most in-depth childbirth methods today is the Bradley Method of Husband-Coached Natural Childbirth. Offered in 12-week blocks, the Bradley method covers pregnancy nutrition, prenatal testing, relaxation techniques, comfort measures to achieve natural childbirth as well as tips for the new mother and father.

This is one of the best methods of childbirth classes for a husband or partner who wants to be involved every step of the way in preparation for and during labor and birth. However, if you are not planning to give birth naturally, you should probably consider another method.

Hypnobirthing

Hypnobirthing is a method founded in the late 1980s by Marie Mongan, but takes much of its theory from work done by Dr. Grantly Dick-Read in the 1920s, who believed that if labor was free of fear and tension, it could be painless.

As the name implies, this method teaches mothers to reach a "daydream-like" state while in labor by practicing a series of scripted imagery exercises. The course meets for five sessions, two and half hours each and is designed for the mother who plans to use hypnosis as her primary comfort measure during labor. However, since hypnobirthing does not offer comprehensive information on other topics such as medical interventions, breastfeeding or the early weeks after baby arrives, parents will need to register for supplemental classes on these topics or take another method of class.

Other Childbirth Preparation Classes

What if the only childbirth classes offered in your area do not have a specific method attached to them? How can you be sure the class is right for you? Here are some tips to guide you if the method of childbirth classes is not identified:

Find out if the childbirth educator is certified. Certification is a must and the more extensive the certification program, often the better the class will be.
How large are the classes? Classes with 10 or more couples will be impersonal and it may be difficult to ask questions.
How much time is there for hands-on practice? A lecture style class is not likely to be one where parents retain much.
Can you talk to a past student? This is one of the best ways to find out if the class really meets your needs.

Private Childbirth Classes

Another popular option for busy parents today is private childbirth classes in which the educator comes to your home. It is easy to see that one huge benefit of a private childbirth class is convenience. However, these classes tend to be shorter and of course parents lose the interaction with other couples.

If parents are looking for a private childbirth class, be sure to have a discussion with the childbirth educator prior to scheduling classes to be sure that your philosophy matches hers. Your doctor or midwife can often provide a list of certified childbirth educators in your area who offer private classes.