Benefits of Childbirth Classes
Why take a childbirth class?
Attending a childbirth class gives expecting parents is a unique opportunity to prepare for one of the biggest events of their lives. Attending a childbirth class can deepen under of the birth process, help each parent learn what to expect, and most childbirth classes are even fun. In Seattle and around the Sound, there are a wide variety of class offerings! It can be overwhelming to take in all the options that are offered through local hospitals, nonprofits, and independent small businesses.
Benefits to taking a childbirth class:
-Opens the door to conversation and joint decision-making on birth and parenting topics.
-Provides an opportunity to form new relationships with other expectant parents who may become allies in the months and years ahead.
-Connects parents to the available resources in the city. Knowledge of resources ahead of time can help parents feel confident that help is accessible if needed in the postpartum period.
-Provides a safe space for parents to test out how it feels to speak up and ask important questions. There will be times during pregnancy and delivery when parents need to ask questions and advocate for themselves and/or their child; childbirth preparation classes offer the tools and information necessary for parents to ask those questions.
How to choose a childbirth class
All childbirth classes cover the basic information about the birth process, along with the standard of care to expect during labor, delivery, and postpartum. A few questions to consider when researching childbirth classes:
-Is the setting in an environment that is comfortable for the duration of class?
-How are non-pregnant parents involved?
-Is the class going to cover topics you want to explore?
-What is the ratio between hands on practice and lecture?
-What do other people have to say about the classes? Ask people you know who have kids, post a question on an online neighborhood forum.
-Where is it located and can you get their without too much hassle?
Regardless of which class a family chooses, the benefits of taking an in-person group class make it worth the investment of time and money.
