How to Select a Childbirth Preparation Class - FAQ
Q:
Do I need to take a childbirth
preparation class?
A: Statistics show that women and
their partners who enroll in and complete childbirth preparation
classes approach their childbirth experiences with a heightened
sense of confidence in the process of birth and in their ability to
make good decisions for mom and baby. This increased awareness can
lead to significant reductions in unnecessary medical interventions
during the birthing process.
Q: Are all childbirth preparation classes the same?
A: Absolutely not. You will find different classes promote
different childbirth philosophies such as Lamaze, Bradley Method,
Hypnobirthing, etc. Additionally, classes vary in length and the
depth of information they cover. While one class might only cost
$30-$40, last 3-4 weeks and offer a brief overview of the
childbearing process, other classes may cost several hundred
dollars, last 6-8 weeks and offer much more in depth information
about pregnancy, stages of labor, medical and non-medical pain
relief options, post-partum preparation and more.
Pregnancy to Parenthood Childbirth
Preparation classes are Lamaze-based classes, cover 10-15 hours of
curriculum spread out over 7 weeks, or in one weekend in our Express
Weekend Childbirth Preparation class. Cost is $135 for weekday
series and $150 for weekend classes.
Q: How do we choose the class that’s right for us?
A: Start by asking yourself what type of learner you are.
Determine whether you learn best in large or small groups of
students. Do you prefer sitting back and just listening, or
partaking in small group discussions and activities? Are you an
active or passive learner? (i.e. do you like to practice new skills
while in the classroom, or just hear about them?) Are you better
able to process information in large amounts, or smaller amounts
over a longer period of time? You will find
Pregnancy to Parenthood classes are small in size, with a maximum of
7 couples per class. This allows for lots of in-depth discussion
and class activities that allow expectant parents to practice
skills, contemplate birth-related issues with their classmates, and
receive plenty of one-on-one attention from the instructor. Our
students have ample opportunity to ask questions and voice opinions
in a supportive, comfortable environment.
Q: What’s the best time to take a childbirth preparation
class?
A: We recommend starting a class in or around your 6th
month of pregnancy for the Weekday Childbirth Preparation series, or
no less than one month before your due date for the Express Weekend
class.
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