Bradley Method and question

kaynix21

Hi ladies.

I started to research classes that are available to me as a FTM. There are a ton available at the hospital I will deliver at, and also a lot available to me through the military.

I'm just trying to see what my options are and I'm curious about the Bradley Method classes. It seems to encompass a lot of things into the 12 weeks course besides delivery.

My question is, my husband will be deployed the whole time I could be in the class. So without him is there an even a point to me taking this particular class? I have a few friends who could probably go with me, but in the event my husband can't be home for the birth, my mom would be in the delivery room with me. She lives too far away to attend these classes with me.

So just wanted some opinions for those who have some experience with this.

Thank you!

kayluhranae

I have heard from people who did the Bradley Method that the books are great for people who don't have access to the classes. Does your husband have any time for reading if you were to send him the book?

Maybe your mom could read the book as well, in case she ends up being your main support person.

kaynix21

Yes, actually, he does have time.

That's a great idea thank you!

ktzen3

I would probably skip the classes and just read the book. While I didn't do the classes, I did read the book and found them helpful. I've had three unmedicated births and have felt more than prepared just by doing my own reading and mental preparation.

mommapizano

We are taking the Bradley classes. Like PPs said, the book would be good option. From my understanding the class is very partner based so it may not make sense if you don't have someone go with you. That being said, our instructor said there have been people who bring different family members or friends and their actual "birth coach" read the book. So I think that would work as well. Not exactly sure what type of labor you are looking for but Bradley is definitely geared towards an unmediated birth. 

MrsPDX

I am in the same boat, husband's gone due to military and my mom can't come to classes. I asked a possible instructor about this, and she said I definitely had to have a partner. So I am forgoing classes, and doing reading (both hypnobirthing and bradley method). 

CanyonRain

MrsPDX said:

I am in the same boat, husband's gone due to military and my mom can't come to classes. I asked a possible instructor about this, and she said I definitely had to have a partner. So I am forgoing classes, and doing reading (both hypnobirthing and bradley method). 

PDX book club, perhaps?

FreddyisReady

I don't know anything about the classes, but I think even if you do not do the Bradley Method, it would be beneficial to be familiar with it. I know the method relies a lot on education and recognizing the different stages of birth.

kaynix21

@ramy3 yes I am considering it. I'm a bit behind on knowing about that sort of stuff but I'm definitely looking into it. And I might qualify for a free doula since my husband is deployed so I'm trying to figure all of that out.

Thanks everyone for your info/input. 

@MrsPDX sorry your man is gone but glad I'm not the only one in this boat!

MrsPDX

CanyonRain said:

I am in the same boat, husband's gone due to military and my mom can't come to classes. I asked a possible instructor about this, and she said I definitely had to have a partner. So I am forgoing classes, and doing reading (both hypnobirthing and bradley method). 

PDX book club, perhaps?

Oh that would be awesome!