Childbirth education classes can be helpful to expectant parents in a number of ways. These classes educate expectant parents on the basics of labor and delivery, as well as postpartum issues such as successfully breastfeeding and properly caring for the baby. Generally, childbirth classes are recommended for parents near the sixth or seventh month of pregnancy, although parents can attend classes at any time.

Childbirth education classes are normally conducted outside of a hospital setting, and help give patients a better idea of what exactly to expect during childbirth. Often, a health care provider will recommend classes based on a patient's specific needs or desires for their pregnancy.

Types of Birthing Classes

Lamaze classes are probably the best-known childbirth education classes in the United States today. Lamaze classes are designed to increase help increase a mother’s confidence during pregnancy, and to help educate parents on their many options so that they will be able to make labor and delivery decisions that are right for them. Lamaze classes usually consist of 12 sessions, which last for about one hour each.

These classes will provide patients with information on:

• Normal labor and birth

• Early postpartum care

• Breathing techniques to use during labor

Lamaze Classes

• Effective communication skills

• Medical procedures used during labor

• Breastfeeding

The Bradley Method

The Bradley Method®, or partnered-coached birth, prepares the pregnant person to deliver without the aid of pain medications and prepares the partner to act as the birthing coach during delivery. Like Lamaze, the Bradley Method classes are usually conducted over 12 sessions that last for about one hour each. These classes focus on the importance of:

• Postpartum care

• Labor rehearsals

• Breastfeeding

• Supporting and coaching the mother during labor and delivery

• Nutrition and exercise during pregnancy

HypnoBirthing®, also called the Mongan Method, is a childbirth education program that relies on self-hypnosis techniques to help the mother relax during labor. HypnoBirthing methods teach women to practice visualizing a pain-free delivery, and to eliminate the fear and anxiety that often contribute to an uncomfortable, painful or lengthy labor. These classes are usually presented in five sessions, lasting approximately two hours each. HypnoBirthing education classes provide patients with information on the following:

• Relaxation techniques to put the mother at ease during labor

• Using self-hypnosis to eliminate the need for pain medication during pregnancy

• A basic understanding of breastfeeding

HypnoBirthing

The Alexander Technique is focused primarily on improving a woman's flexibility, ease of movement, coordination and balance during pregnancy. Most patients will take 30- to 45-minute long weekly lessons on this practice during pregnancy. The Alexander Technique provides expectant mothers with knowledge on:

• Easing the discomfort of nursing

• Improving overall comfort during pregnancy

• Shortening recovery from childbirth

• Breathing and focusing during delivery

The Alexander Technique