Prior to delivery, expectant parents must choose the birthing method best suited for the mother, father and baby. To educate themselves on various options, many parents-to-be take a childbirth class late in their second or early in their third trimester. These classes introduce various birthing options and their respective philosophies and techniques. While childbirth instructors may incorporate their own techniques and experiences into their classes, there are certain topics and issues that almost all courses cover, including:

Additionally, childbirthing classes offer the opportunity to interact with other expectant couples; share hopes, fears and questions; increase the father's involvement; and develop self-confidence concerning your ability to meet the physical and emotional challenges of childbirth.

It is best to attend a class that is recommended by your physician, midwife or other childbirth expert, or the hospital these professionals are affiliated with. Childbirth philosophies that conflict with those of your practitioner may cause problems when it comes time to give birth. Be sure to discuss any conflicting information or differences of opinion with your practitioner well before your due date.

Finding a Childbirth Class

Here are some suggestions to help you locate a childbirth class:

What to Look for In a Childbirth Class

The focus and quality of childbirth education varies from class to class. Keep the following factors in mind when choosing a childbirth class:

Class size—Classes with more than 10 or 11 couples tend to be too large. Small classes allow for more individual attention from the instructor and promote camaraderie among the couples. Anywhere from five to eight couples is typically an acceptable class size.

Instructor qualifications—Make sure your childbirth educator has been formally trained in the method(s) he or she is teaching. Ask to see his or her credentials.

Program focus—A good childbirth course will provide both concentrated information about a particular birthing method as well as general education on pregnancy, childbirth and related physical and psychological issues.

Make sure you thoroughly research a class before you attend.

Cesarean Section

A cesarean section, also known as a c-section, is a surgical delivery performed due to medical circumstances. Today, almost one in four babies is delivered by c-section in the United States and Canada for various reasons, including (but not limited to) a difficult or long labor, fetal distress, a breech position (baby is not positioned head first), placental problems, and/or other medical conditions that may jeopardize the health and safety of mother and baby.

If you have questions or concerns about cesarean surgery, discuss them in detail with your physician. You may, for example, want to ask if traditional methods will be attempted before turning to surgery; whether your partner, coach, midwife or doula can be with you during the procedure; what effects it will have on you and your baby; and how it may affect future pregnancies and deliveries.

Note—This article contains general information only; please consult your health care provider with any questions regarding your pregnancy-and your childbirth options.

Excerpted from "A LifeCare® Guide: Birthing Options." Copyright© 2003 LifeCare®, Inc. All rights reserved.

This publication is for general informational purposes only and it is not intended to provide any reader with specific authority, advice or recommendations. Where you deem necessary, we suggest that you seek advice regarding your particular situation from the appropriate professional.

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