As a childbirth educator, often the question I am asked is: Why should I take childbirth classes? Whether you're delivering your first child or fifth, childbirth classes can help you prepare to meet the challenges of labor and delivery. My goal is to stack the odds in your favor to have the birth experience you want. Didn't know that was possible? It is!! Consider the opportunities: Learn things you never knew about labor, delivery and postpartum care. You'll find out how to identify the signs of labor and what happens to your body as your baby makes his or her way into the world. Address your fears. During childbirth classes, you'll have the chance to talk about your fears with other women who probably share the same concerns. The instructor can dispel myths and help put your mind at ease. This is super important as these fears can become roadblocks in labor. Connect with your partner or labor coach. Childbirth classes offer your partner or labor coach the chance to understand childbirth, too — as well as how to support you during labor. Discuss options for handling pain. You'll practice various methods for coping with contractions, such as breathing techniques, relaxation and visualization. My classes are unbiased and open to mothers wanting pain medication or those desiring a unmedicated birth. Get the basics on medical interventions and possible complications. Learn warning signs of complications and how to stack the odds in your favor to avoid them. Brush up on newborn care. In addition to labor and delivery, you'll likely get a primer on newborns. Common topics include choosing a pediatrician, breast-feeding, diapering and bathing. Create a social network. Meet other pregnant women and listen to their experiences. Make a new friend and someone to text during those 2am feedings. Childbirth classes are a necessary part of the prenatal process. Please reach out with any questions. source: http://www.thebirthworkshop.com/classes.html source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/pregnancy/PR00119 source: http://www.babycenter.com/0_childbirth-classes_161.bc