Why should I take a birthing class when I'm pregnant?

One of the ways you can best bond with your partner is by signing up for a childbirth class to help you prepare for pregnancy, delivery, and life beyond. Birthing classes teach you a lot about breathing techniques to prepare you for labor (some say to distract you from pain; others say to help you tune into and manage your pain). While there are online classes available, we discourage you from them because two of the biggest points are to share the wonder of the birthing process with your partner and find other moms-to-be who can serve as a support system. Here are some tips to help you choose a class that's right for you:

1. Select a class that has a philosophy that matches yours. The Lamaze method (the most popular in the United States) focuses on relaxation, but also encourages Mom to learn how to respond to pain, both with and without medication. The Bradley method focuses on a natural approach that involves the father as birth coach and discourages the use of medication.
2. Ask about what topics will be covered. Most classes will cover the gamut of topics, including anatomy, stages of labor, reducing labor pain, medications, complications, newborn and postpartum care, and breastfeeding.
3. Check the certification of the agency and ask for the credentials of the instructor. Some of the biggest certifying organizations include Lamaze International, The Bradley Method, and the International Childbirth Education Association.
4. Pick classes offered over a period of six weeks rather than the marathon weekend ones. You'll remember more the less time you're in class, even if the course is spread out over several weeks. And choose one that has between five and ten couples in it.
5. Keep a pregnancy diary that allows you to track your aches, your discomforts, and your side effects.
6. Using information that you get from classes, develop an outline of your birth plan.
7. Check with your insurance company to see if they'll reimburse you for classes (though many are free). No matter what, the investment is worthwhile.
8. Practice techniques you learn in class, but don't worry if you forget, because your nurses, doula, doctor or midwife will help you when the going gets rough in the labor room.