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 Childbirth
& Parenting Classes
Available Options for New Parents
by the health care
professionals at Littleton Hospital
The birth of a child is a fascinating time of growth and discovery. To
help expectant parents meet the challenges of the transition into parenthood,
most birthing centers offer a wide variety of classes.
Childhood and parenting classes are designed to build your confidence,
help you make more informed decisions; and support you in your new role
as a parent.
Childbirth Preparation Classes
Childbirth classes are designed to respect individual values and strive
to make each birth and parenting experience a special adventure. Childbirth
and parenting classes are taught by skilled nurses and highly trained
instructors who will answer your questions and offer you guidance. Included
in childbirth classes are discussions of anatomy and how your body changes
during pregnancy and what to expect during labor and delivery. Also included
is information and practice with relaxation techniques, choices available
to you for medication and anesthesia to decrease discomfort and a tour
of the birth place.
These classes help prepare the expectant mother and her support person
for the physical and emotional aspects of childbirth. Most childbirth
classes are 12 hours of education divided into 4 or 6 sessions.
Some busy expectant parents who are both working may be interested in
an express childbirth class that meets once or twice for a total of 8
hours.
Baby Care
First time parents are encouraged to take a baby care class that teaches
the basics like: diapering, feeding, comforting, and what to expect during
the first three months of life.
Infant CPR Classes
Infant CPR class is also encouraged for first time parents and even experienced
parents who need a refresher of what to do in the case of an unexpected
emergency. Most CPR classes offer information on accident prevention and
child safety.
Breastfeeding Classes
Expectant moms who are planning to breastfeed are encouraged to attend
a breastfeeding class. Preparing for breastfeeding before delivery is
very helpful and makes a success of that first week of life.
Refresher Course
Expectant parents having the second baby or more may be interested
in a refresher childbirth class. Refresher classes are offered to families
who already have children and had a childbirth class years ago. Sometimes
couples in refresher class are experienced mothers with new first time
dads. Refresher classes are usually 3-6 hours of education in 1-2 sessions.
Early Pregnancy Classes
Some birthing centers offer classes for early pregnancy. These classes
discuss morning sickness, good nutrition, and the avoidance of harmful
substances.
After you have your baby, you may want to follow up with the variety
of parenting and support classes that many birthing centers have. These
classes give you a chance to problem solve and help you form a great relationship
with the newest member of the family.
Editorial provided
by the health care professionals at Littleton Hospital in Littleton, Colorado.
| Childbirth Preparation
Classes...A closer look
at some of your options
Bradley Method
The Bradley Method remains popular in Colorado as a result
of its originator, Dr. Robert Bradley, a Denver physician. The emphasis
here is on the natural process of labor which usually needs neither
medications nor intervention. Parents are taught to rely on a wide
variety of coping skills including relaxation, imagery and visualization,
and deep breathing.
Kitzinger Method
The Kitzinger method, based on the ideas of English anthropologist
Sheila Kitzinger, promotes birth as a natural sexual event. In addition
to education and coping skills learned in class, there is an emphasis
on the positive interaction of the parents who have conceived this
baby together.
Lamaze Method
The Lamaze method is perhaps the most well known type of childbirth
preparation. Based on Pavlov's theory of conditioned response, there
is an emphasis on practicing relaxation and breathing patterns to
condition the body to respond to labor contractions in a relaxed
state. The mother very specifically diverts her attention to these
coping techniques and away from the pain of the contractions. Additionally,
most Lamaze classes offer rich resources of education, toning exercises,
imagery, and even communication skills to utilize with their caregivers
in labor.
Although the philosophies of the various types of childbirth preparation
will certainly flavor the presentations, perhaps the most important
component is the educator presenting the material. An open-minded,
supportive educator will provide accurate information and useful
skills, and will direct parents to other resources when required.
In seeking out classes, parents may wish to conduct a brief phone
interview with the instructor to explore her views and ideas.
Something parents will learn as they progress through this new
experience is that despite all the knowledge, preparation, and philosophical
compatibility, birth is a unique and often unpredictable experience.
Taking advantage of every learning opportunity offered will minimize
the surprises, lessen the impact of difficulties, and enhance the
enjoyment of this special event.
Provided by Vicki
Swindell, RN, Certified Childbirth Educator and Nurse Manager at
Columbia Rose Medical Center, Labor and Delivery.
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