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Childbirth Classes

All You Need to Know
-- By The Childbirth Education Association

Why Attend A Childbirth Class?
Birth can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Childbirth preparation classes can help you during labor and provide you with the satisfying experience of giving birth to your baby. Childbirth classes involve education, techniques and support for both the mother and her labor partner, helping them become informed participants. There are a variety of classes available to meet your needs. An informed couple is less likely to fear the unknown.

The classes will provide you with the anatomy and physiology of childbirth as well as the progress of labor and birth. You will practice the techniques of breathing and relaxation and comfort measures. If you are an athlete, you train vigorously for a big event. You would not enter a competition having only read a book. Labor is similar. You must practice so your body will be able to respond to certain signals.

By attending childbirth preparation classes you will know what your choices are and will more confident when working with your caregiver and other hospital staff. You will also meet other expectant couples with whom you can share this special time. Information about pregnancy and childbirth is widely available through the internet, cable television and numerous books. A class will provide immediate feedback, a "hands-on" approach.

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Member Comments About this Article
"My husband and I took classes through The Bradley Method. We had 3 awesome birth experiences! I highly recommend the well rounded education and training that The Bradley Method offers." -- AMYJOSITES
"Does anyone know about good DVD resources?" -- BRYANNA17
"Check with your insurance company. My wife and I were lucky enough to find out that we only pay a small co-pay now and it covers everything including birthing classes. You may also want to look into whether you or your significant other's company offers a flexible spending account (FSA). You can get the money to use for medical expenses on Jan.1, and it is taken out of your pay throughout the year. This is great especially if you need something expensive because it works more like a payment ..." -- JOHNSONJJ73
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