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Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

How do I know if I’m taking a good childbirth class? What should I be learning?

Re: How do I know if I’m taking a good childbirth class? What should I be learning?

The Bump Expert

No matter what style of class you choose, check the instructor’s certification and credentials in advance. Look for a class with three to ten students, and go for one that meets for short sessions over several weeks -- you’ll learn and retain more than from one marathon session. Find reviews of specific classes from local parents on lilaguide.com.

Before you sign up, find out what topics the class will cover. These should include instruction on comfort, support, relaxation and positioning for labor, epidurals and other pain meds, possible complications and interventions during delivery, and birth plan options. Also look for postpartum topics like breastfeeding, parenting and your own recovery. Good luck!

Paula Kashtan | May 06 , 2009 3:55 PM

re: Q: Childbirth classes already

I was just wondering when other expectant mom's start going to childbirth classes. I was told that I should wait until 6months... is that too long?

babybumpjoy | August 18 , 2008 12:34 PM

re: Q: Childbirth class curriculum?

My friend waited until around 6mos. She ended up being totally fine, because her baby was 3.5 weeks late! (He's born now, and is totally beautiful.) I hear that six months is a good time, but maybe a little earlier if your mom or sisters have a history of delivering early. You'll want to make sure you have enough time to finish your class before the Big Day!

shoshigana@yahoo.com | November 18 , 2008 1:40 PM

re: Q: Childbirth class curriculum?

i just started my second trimester and the checklist is already telling me to look into these classes... i guess it depends on how many weeks the classes run for?

gummybearsong | January 09 , 2009 9:36 PM

re: Q: Childbirth class curriculum?

I'm 14 weeks now. I called the hospital where I'll be delivering and asked one of the nurses when people usually take the childbirth classes. She said I should be finished with the class about 4-5 weeks before my due date. That way it's still fresh in my mind and I still have plenty of time between the end of the class and my due date. But I already signed up for it since they fill up super fast. Hope this helps!

TheRashkins | February 20 , 2009 5:03 PM

re: Q: Childbirth class curriculum?

ok so this is my 7th baby (dont judge, I've only given birth to ONE of my own!! I was a surrogate!) that I've given birth to, HOWEVER, this is my husbands first child, do you think we should take classes?? Or is it only for first time moms??

ZachnLoriahn | March 02 , 2009 9:04 AM

re: Q: Childbirth class curriculum?

Does anyone take lamaze classes anymore?

mrs crone | April 27 , 2009 9:13 AM

re: Q: Childbirth class curriculum?

I called to get signed up for classes around four months so they didn't fill up before I could get in. The lady that I talked to on the phone asked me if I wanted to do them in July or August (I'm due Sept. 29). I took the July classes because I am going on a trip in August and I didn't want to miss my first class! So, we'll start them at 27 weeks and end them at 30 weeks. I would say anything past 25 weeks is ok. To ZachnLoriahn, if you and your husband want to go, then go!! There is nothing that says you can't, so why not??

dizzzy_chik99 | May 17 , 2009 11:48 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

My husband and I are starting our classes at 25wks with two of our cousins :) The hospital where we are delivering offers the classes so I'm comfortable in know that we are in good hands. Plus we get to do it with people we are about! I'm excited to start them!

Trindle08 | August 04 , 2009 2:54 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

Is it really necessary to go to child birth classes? We are having a hard time finding one that fits into our schedule and I'm beginning to wonder if me stressing about it is even worth it?

kaycigilkey | August 08 , 2009 3:33 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

With my first i didnt take classes! and during labor i was kicking my self in the butt for not doing so! this time around I am getting prepared to schedule for my classes!

inabella | August 15 , 2009 9:55 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

We found one and I am sooo thankful I am taking it. I was having nightmares that I didn't know what to do and it made me realize I really needed to be educated!

kaycigilkey | August 21 , 2009 11:30 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

I'm taking the Bradley classes. I'll start at 25 weeks, and they go for 12 weeks, so we'll be done at 37 weeks!

bluesky9723 | September 12 , 2009 8:03 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

My cousin took classes with her first child. She said they are a waste of time because they didn't help.

vnguyen417 | September 22 , 2009 5:02 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

I'm taking the Bradley classes as well. We're planning on delivering at a hospital, but we'd like to know what we can do to avoid the meds and have it as natural as possible. Started them this past weekend at 24 weeks and should be done at 36 weeks. The curriculum is very thorough!!

Connie102 | September 23 , 2009 9:16 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

If you are planning on checking out Hypnobirth (Hypno meaning deep but concious relaxation) then you dont want to wait until the last few months. Instructors for this method actually encourage you to start earlier so that you can put the techniques into practice all during your pregnancy, not just during labor.

doodlejenj | October 01 , 2009 8:08 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

I just scheduled my birth classes and I'm 16 weeks. I signed up because I heard that they fill up quickly. I give birth in June and my class is scheduled for late March. I called the hospital that I will be birthing at and they were wonderful. The offered a personal tour of their facility as well as other classes like Baby Basics, Breast Feeding and Child CPR certification.

ssarais | December 30 , 2009 12:44 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

I want to take birthing classes (Bradley, I think). My husband thinks it would be a waste of our time. I've read a lot of books on the subject and watch baby shows on TV like it's my job. I'm having a hard time articulating why I think the classes are still valuable. Any tips?

JennCheeze | January 19 , 2010 3:48 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

I'm 25 weeks pregnant, it is my first child I am wondering if I really need the lamaze classes, My doctor hasn't said I need to so I'm not sure, I'm wondering what the pros and cons are to them... Can someone please help!

amberwildcat08 | January 29 , 2010 12:53 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

I am 17 weeks pregnant & want to go now since my doctor has stated he is putting me on strict bedrest as of my 6 month. I am due in Aug & will be in bed as of June. Are they going to have a problem with me wanting to go earlier in my pregnancy?

jacquelinholder | March 13 , 2010 9:28 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

The classes are not a waste of time if you value learning, especially if it's your first child. At the very least, they will help you to prepare yourself mentally for labor, and are a source of support and information that you might not get otherwise. JennCheeze, if your man is really opposed to going, you could opt to go to classes by yourself. I went to classes mainly by myself with my first child and I found them extremely helpful. I was much less fearful about labor after attending classes. The particular class I took did not focus on any one style, but explored the different styles so that the moms could choose what was right for them, even if that meant combining elements from each into a customized plan. I am looking forward to attending classes with my husband this time around, and he's very excited about them because this will be his first go round with childbirth. I am also looking forward to taking another class, as things might be different now, b/c it's been over 5 years since I took them last. I expect it to be a bonding experience for my hubby and I. In my opinion, it is never a waste of time to be prepared.

Bec28 | May 01 , 2010 8:02 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

I am interested in both Bradley & Hypnobirth. I am only 13 weeks along & have not really looked that deep into them. Should I sign up for both of the classes, or would I just be learning 2 completely different things - ultimately not reaching any benefit? I am hoping for a natural, pain med/intervention free delivery. What should I do?

immimo00 | May 19 , 2010 10:54 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

After playing telephone tag for 3 weeks it looks like child birth classes are full at the hospital I am delivering at. The only classes they have left are 1 night a week for 6 weeks and I should have my baby way before then. Any advice on what I should do? or some other way I can learn about birthing classes without attending?

mparrella@bridgew.edu | May 25 , 2010 3:55 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

My husband and I are going to take the free 2 day class at our hospital instead of the 6 week class that costs $90 bucks. If I don't think we learn enough, we could always sign up for the 6 week one after.

lherndon | October 28 , 2010 7:06 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

One thing to note is that often, privately-taught childbirth classes are more helpful, especially for moms-to-be who want to try a natural approach. The classes offered by the hopsitals generally teach you "how to be a good hospital patient," rather than specifically covering alternative methods of pain relief, relaxation, etc. Personally, I feel like I've read enough L&D testimonials and will have the support I need from family, friends, and doula who will be present at the birth -- however, I think the classes would be of great benefit to my partner, who somehow thinks he will be afforded a waist-up view of my labor and delivery!! From what I've heard, childbirthing classes can be great for expectant dads.

gy86 | March 14 , 2011 11:27 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

My daughter was born at only 28 weeks- on the day our first child birth class was scheduled. This caused so many issues for me because her being my first child I really absolutely had no idea what was going on. Even though I have been through a birth of a child my husband and I plan to go to a child birth class together, not only are they imformation but a way for dad-to-be's able to fit in, in the much mommy oriented business of carrying a child and giving birth to the child. It also allows mothers and fathers to bond with each other at even picking a way together that thier child comes into world. Not to mention you may even meet other moms to be that will eventually become a friend and ally on a completely new adventure for day time play dates for babies.

Gerda84 | March 31 , 2011 2:39 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

My husband will be gone for 4 months of training for his job starting August 12th. I am 14 weeks now and I am due on Nov. 21st. I would love for my husband to be there for the classes since he will be able to be home for the birth. Should we take our class early or should I have another person fill in for him and do the class later?

AgainStillForever2012 | May 26 , 2011 1:50 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

I agree that you should take all the classes one month before the due date, but make sure you register in advance. My hospital is NYU and and all the classes are filled up pretty quickly. I am 19 weeks and just registered for a couple of classes but I wish I did it earlier since I didn't have a lot of options with the dates and one class even had a waiting list....

happy=mom=to=be | June 12 , 2011 7:29 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

I'm only 11 wks so far, and with all my complications classes aren't going to prepare me for much anyway since there's a high chance I'll be waaaay early and probably have to have a c-section..... however, I think if my bd wants to go, "just in case" then we might try taking the classes (hopefully we can find a free one that fits into his schedule)

meque183 | August 03 , 2011 4:23 PM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

From my experience the best education comes from the internet. Few years ago I've took an online associates degree in business and I was very satisfied of what I learned. This is why when I've got pregnant I decided to look for some childbirth courses in order to be well-prepared for the great moment. I've took an online course and I was thought what to do in order to give birth easily and without so much pain. Also they provided me quality information about postpartum issues.

AnandaRocker | January 09 , 2012 9:38 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

My wife didn't have that much time for such a childbirth class. She was very busy with studying for her criminal justice degree. Maybe when we have our next kid she will be able to do that in a proper manner.

RichieRich1984 | January 11 , 2012 8:55 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

What about a homeland security degree? Wouldn't that cover a lot of the aspect mentioned here. Anyways, I think that every person is free to choose what course it suits their needs best, especially when you have children.

ibmdude | January 16 , 2012 2:44 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

It is very hard to choose a childbirth class because there are so many and you don`t know which is the best, I agree we must search for "short sessions over several weeks" instead of long sessions. After I attended some childbirth classes I realized this is like studying masters public administration, I had strong emotions before starting the courses but soon realized it is interesting and exciting.

amyabel68 | January 16 , 2012 5:14 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

If you questions about this specific subject, you could to a doctor of education online. I'm pretty sure that such a person can clarify any issue you might have. Good luck and God bless you all!!

Bulbazar | January 18 , 2012 7:30 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

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watson012 | January 30 , 2012 3:46 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

I've attended this kind of childbirth classes and I am very satisfied with what I learned there. Unfortunately I couldn't attend all of them as I had to study for a mba mph degree. I learned a lot of things about childbirth and baby care.

ondinaonda | February 17 , 2012 7:11 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

what about if you're not sure whether you'll be having a c-section or not? Should I still take them?

kidderkittenj | April 02 , 2012 11:18 AM

Q&A: Childbirth class curriculum?

This is our first child and we have decided to take the Lamaze class at our doctors office instead of the hospital. All of the doctors and nurses at my practice are great about being on the same page and having the same philosophy, someone from that office will be in the room with me taking care of the delivery, so it made sense to pay more and do it there and know what to expect. We are also taking the Birth and Beginnings class at our local hospital which is divided into 4 classes (one Lamazeish, breastfeeding, taking care of baby afterward, and c-section). Although we hope C-section isn't necessary obviously, I will feel much better about it if I feel prepared for anything when it comes time. I am due 8/23 and taking Lamaze during July as my doctor suggested b/c I have a healthy pregnancy so far, and the Birth and Beginning class during June.

rhewj | May 08 , 2012 12:46 PM

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