Birthing classes, esp. (but not only) Bradley

sweetie_roo

We're starting classes with a Bradley instructor next week, and I'm wondering how it's going for anyone else in a childbirth class.

What do you like so far?  What don't you like? What is it like for your SO take in the classes?

JCM083009

We took Bradley classes and loved them.  I learned a ton about the experience and what I do and don't want during my labor and delivery (and after). 

yellowsnow

We loved our Bradley classes!  It's so awesome to get my DH involved and I think he likes knowing that he will be a big part of the delivery, not just standing there.  The teacher was great because she explained so much we hadn't thought of and now we both have a great idea of what we want to happen and what we definitely DON'T want to happen.  My DH is ready to "put the smack down" as he says, if the nurses don't abide by our birth plan.    I think the classes really got him excited about everything and it definitely helped ease my nervousness about what was going to happen.  Now we know! Definitely worth it!!

VandyOwl

Our Bradley class was so great. DH loved it too, which surprised me as I had to talk him into it. It's pretty intense to take a 12 week class series like that, but we learned so much. I loved that it covered all aspects of pregnancy - nutrition, labor, relaxation, breastfeeding, etc... It was totally worth it. I'm even thinking about becoming a Bradley teacher.... if I'm successful with the whole natural labor/delivery!  Enjoy your class.

sweetie_roo

Wow!  what great feedback!  I'm thrilled to hear so many people loved their classes.  If anyone else has taken any great classes, please fill me in!

I'm feeling even better about our decision to do the Bradley classes.  I'm not completely stuck on doing it w/o pain meds, but I want to prepare myself for a natural birth so I feel like I have a fighting chance at it.

Iamsmalls

Honestly, our class kinda sucks. I have really liked what we have actually learned and am excited to use the Bradley method for our birth b/c I really do believe in it, however, DH and I both think the materials are extremely outdated. The videos we have watched were all produced prior to 1985 (no joke) and the printed materials are also very old. Our teacher is also not the greatest. That being said, I really do think the method itself is great...I'm just somewhat disappointed in the provided materials and our instructor.

Chrysallys

DH and I finished our Bradley class last week and both of us loved it. I loved it for all the information and self confidence it gave me and DH loved how involved he was in the class and how much he will be during labor. It made him feel important.