| The moment you became pregnant, you | | | | relaxation. In this class you will be taught how to |
| automatically took the first step on a new | | | | work with your body to manage the pain. This is |
| journey in your life. Although you may feel you've | | | | a good class to take if you are looking to have a |
| done your research by flipping through books and | | | | more natural birth. Some couples hire a doula (an |
| searching the web, a class still has so much more | | | | experienced non-medical assistant who provides |
| to offer. Taking a class will give you a chance to | | | | physical and emotional support) to attend their |
| share experiences and build friendships with other | | | | birth. You will still need a doctor or a midwife |
| couples. There are a variety of classes to take | | | | present. You can find an independent certified |
| that will help you deal with pregnancy, labor, and | | | | instructor at Lamaze Classes |
| caring for a newborn. | | | | These classes include information on normal |
| Read about the different types of classes to find | | | | childbirth, deep-breathing exercises, distraction |
| out which one is right for you. | | | | techniques and ways to find comfort. In addition, |
| Childbirth Classes | | | | you will also learn about the medication options |
| Most hospitals and birthing centers offer programs | | | | and C-sections so you will be ready for whatever |
| to give expectant parents the 411 on everything | | | | comes up. This type of class may be right for |
| from signs of labor to C-section deliveries. These | | | | you if you're thinking about a natural birth but you |
| classes are great if this is your first pregnancy. "If | | | | want the medication on hand if needed. To find a |
| you know what to expect, you'll be less fearful, | | | | class near you go to lamaze.org |
| less anxious, and better prepared to make | | | | The Whole 9 Yards |
| decisions," says Sheri Bayles, R.N., a childbirth | | | | If you have enjoyed the experience in taking |
| educator in New York City. This type of class will | | | | these classes and are looking for some extra |
| take you through the labor process, teach you | | | | credit, try some of these: |
| about the different medication options and help | | | | Breast-feeding Classes - Focuses on infant |
| you to come up with a birth plan. But remember, | | | | positioning, pumping and storing milk and how to |
| no matter what your birth plan is, some factors | | | | deal with potential problems. |
| about labor are out of your control. It's just best | | | | Infant-care Classes - Perfect for first time |
| to be fully informed about the labor process and | | | | parents these classes over the basics like bathing, |
| to know all your options. | | | | car safety, taking temperatures, circumcision |
| The Bradley Method | | | | care, and feeding issues. |
| The Bradley Method is a technique that | | | | Sibling-preparation Classes - Teaches children, |
| encourages expectant moms to have a natural | | | | usually ages 3-10, what to expect when their new |
| birth. This is a 12 week course that emphasizes | | | | sibling is born. |
| on good nutrition, prenatal exercises, and | | | | |