In the midst of ever changing maternity care, it is vital, now more than ever, to know how to increase your odds of a safe delivery. So, what makes for a positive, healthy birth experience?
Minimal pain?
The latest in technology?
Most parents have had both minimal pain and the latest technology and yet the majority still tell their "horror birth story" and come away with negative side effects from interventions that can impact them, spiritually and physically, for weeks or even years.
Obviously, that's not where the answer lies.
Why Childbirth Classes?
The birth of a baby represents the birth of a family; therefore, it's only logical that there's more to having a satisfying birth than merely the physical experience. The mental, emotional and social spiritual aspects of birth are as equally important as the physical. There is more to a healthy outcome than the survival of the mother and baby. If the intangible needs are met for parents-to-be, they will better meet the needs of their babies, much more so than the "experts" can.
Studies show that a positive, healthy birth is not measured by how much pain a woman experiences, but by how well informed she felt, how in control of the decision making she was, and the quality of her labor support. In order to achieve a high level knowledge, informed decision making, and skilled labor support, education is essential. The way to attain the highest quality childbirth education in the limited time that pregnancy offers is to seek out experienced, well-informed childbirth education classes.
How do you know if the classes you've chosen are the best offered? Here are a few questions you can ask to help you make your decision...
Is the provider of the childbirth classes independent or contracted?
Independent means that no hospital or care provider is paying them. They are not censored in teaching or have vested interest in "selling" you any procedure because of someone else's policies.
What is the class length?
You obviously receive and retain more information and skills in a 8 week or more class series than a weekend or 2 week "crash course."
What is the training, experience, and philosophy of the class provider?
Look for an educator that stays well informed of current findings, is well read, attends conferences, and teaches from a view point that supports your goals; i.e. if your goal is a natural, unmedicated birth it makes sense to seek classes that emphasize normal, healthy birth and provides in depth comfort techniques and coping measures.
Making the effort to become well-informed of childbirth itself, and typical birth practices and options, is truly an investment with lifelong rewards of better health and memories that will stay with you forever.
Don't be left with the feeling, "If only I had known more or made different choices, would my birth have been more satisfying or healthy?"
Take responsibility and provide yourself and baby with the best possible experience by seeking out quality childbirth education classes.
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