[TRANSCRIPT OF ANSWER]
Best Way to Prepare for Childbirth
“One of the best things that you can do to prepare for your labor is to take a childbirth preparation class. Don’t worry, it’s not boring. Most childbirth education classes are super relaxed and very casual. They are lots of fun, not only for you but (also) your coach or the birth partner that you bring with you. That can be your spouse. Sometimes it can be a mom or a friend or a cousin.”
“Childbirth classes are meant to be fun, but they are going to tell you so much information about your pregnancy and what exercises you can actually do during your pregnancy. This will help you have an easier, shorter labor and less pain during labor. Don’t you want that? Everybody wants an easy, fast labor, and a childbirth education class can teach you how to accomplish that. One thing you’ll learn about is positions during your labor that will help your baby come out faster and make your labor a little bit easier on your body and possibly shorten it up and, reduce your pain.”
Childbirth Classes
“Childbirth education classes usually go in-depth about relaxation techniques, comfort measures, and things that your partner can do to help you feel more comfortable during the labor process. So, it is a great tool for (partners) so that they’re not just standing there watching you in pain and wondering how to help you. They are actually going to learn how to work with you and it can be a great bonding experience for couples.”
“(You will learn) breathing, relaxation, and comfort measures during labor. You will also learn all about the hospital, how to navigate the hospital systems, what the hospital policies are, and what things can you sign a waiver for if you’re not comfortable, and four questions to ask your doctor before your labor. Your childbirth classes are so informative. I have never had a student say, ‘Oh, I wish I didn’t take that class. I didn’t learn a thing.'”
“So it’s really important that you get educated and your partner gets educated. Research the childbirth classes that are in your area. Look up the different methods. See which one meshes with you. Go to their websites. Call the instructors. A lot of childbirth educators take payment plans or even barter services. So don’t let money stop you definitely get educated and take a class.”
