How Can I Prepare?
Physically, Mentally, Emotionally, Spiritually
Childbirth classes help build your confidence in your body’s ability to give birth.
You can discuss your fears about labor and birth with the instructor and other couples with the same concerns.
Your partner will learn about childbirth and how to support you on the big day.
You may find that attending childbirth classes together will create a special bond.
Your instructor will discuss pain relief options, including massage, relaxation, and breathing techniques.
A tour of your birthing facility during class will give you the opportunity to see the staff in action.
*Source: American Pregnancy Association - americanpregnancy.org
Educational Classes
How do I find the right class for me?
I personally have chosen to use Hypnobabies and Hypnobirthing for all three of my births. However, that may not be your cup of tea! And that's ok! I encourage all of my clients to take a deeper look into the available options and choose one that best suits their personality, needs, and interests. Below are some links (definitely not an exhaustive list) to various methods for you to check out!
First! A personal story: when I was pregnant with my first baby, the birth center that I chose required all first-time moms to take a childbirth education course. This was frustrating to me at the time because money was already tight. Now, looking back, all I see is sheer wisdom! In fact, I strongly encourage all of my clients to do that same (if they've never taken a course, first-timer or not).
During that birth, I remember sitting in the tub, even amidst everything I was feeling in my body, and still thinking, "WOW! I'm so glad grateful I have these tools (Hypnobabies) to get me through this!" I didn't realize this until after the birth, but the suggestion "every 20 minutes feels like 5 minutes to you" came completely true! And much more.
All of this to say: IT IS WORTH IT! Pick a class that jives with your style and go for it.
The NEED for childbirth education
What are the benefits of childbirth education classes?
Educational Books
Birth Ambassadors: Doulas and the Re-Emergence of Woman-Supported Birth in America by Christine H. Morton & Elayne Clift
Spiritual Midwifery by Ina May Gaskin
Breastfeeding Made Simple by Nancy Mohrbacher & Kathleen Kendell-Tackett
This Isn't What I Expected: Overcoming Postpartum Depression by Karen R. Kleiman & Valorie Davis Raskin
Birth is Eight Cultures by Robbie Davis-Floyd & Melissa Cheney
What to dive deeper?
Another element that I really focus on with my clients is the mental and emotional preparation for their upcoming birth. I have found the following books to be inspiring, enlightening, and empowering as I've prepared for birth (and just for life in general!):
The Biology of Belief: Unleashing the Power of Consciousness, Matter & Miracles by Bruce H. Lipton
The Gift of Giving Life: Rediscovering The Divine Nature of Pregnancy and Birth by Felice Austin, et al.
Ina May's Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin
Hypnobirthing The Mongan Method by Marie F. Mongan
Mindful Birthing by Nancy Bardacke
Becoming Supernatural by Joe Dispenza