It depends on what type of birth you desire. If you are hoping to have a natural labor and birth (without using pain medication), then I would recommend taking a childbirth class OUT of the hospital. In general, most hospitals are teaching you how to have your baby with using epidurals. Granted many more women have their babies using epidurals.
However, the natural childbirth experience is life-changing and empowering! Participation in this process of birth is possible when you understand what your body is doing and knowing that you were created to be able to birth. Interventions like pain medications hold risks, so avoiding their use if at all possible is safer when you don't use them. And it is not just about avoiding things...it is about finding the strength within yourself that you would never otherwise discover. After a natural birth, you will feel SO gratifiied and STRONG! When your husband sees your strength, he will have a deeper respect for you! It is POWERFUL!
I teach The Bradley Method® of Childbirth. I teach that slow natural breathing is the most rewarding way to have your baby. You and your partner(husband, baby's dad) are BOTH heavily involved in this process. Bradley classes also include breastfeeding, post partum, making a birth plan, comfort measures, labor rehearsals, relaxation practice, exercises, and interaction with other expecting parents.
I am also a birth doula. Having a doula to work with before, during and after your birth is a helpful addition to your birth team whether you have an epidural or natural birth. Many of my doula clients have taken a hospital childbirth class and still desire more education and care during their birth experience. I give additional instruction to them before their birth which really prepares them for what their labor will be like as well as breastfeeding counsel and education.
Childbirth is not only the birth of your child, it is the birth of a family! It is an experience to be treasured; not to be feared. It is an experience you will remember for the rest of your life. Make it a WONDERFUL experience; one which you will find the strength you did not know you had!
Please refer to my website for more information. Hope to hear from many of you!
K. Voigtsberger, CD(DONA), AAHCC
Whole Heart Birth Experience
www.WholeHeartBirth.com
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