Q about Childbirth Classes

MrsH44

I was all set for a 5 week course at the hospital where I am delivering and they just called to tell me the class had been canceled due to the fact that only 3 people signed up. They said it was no big deal, I can just take the next one, yeah sure no problem, when does it start? July 12. Hmm my EDD is July 22 so probably not! I can't find any other classes in the area, what should I do? DH says it's not a big deal we just won't take any, what are your thoughts on that? Are they really helpful? Are the classes worth it, or will it all just happen naturally? (PS this is our first.)

Mrs. BZ

I wasn't planning on taking a childbirthing class for a couple of reasons. However, I did some research and there are some community classes that are cheaper and teach the same stuff as the hospital classes. I would do some research on community classes and see what you can find.

jellybelly03

Is it going to be the end of the world if you don't take one?  Definitely not.  Did I learn a ton at ours?  Not really.

That said, I still liked taking one for our first for two reasons:

1.  DH learned a ton.

2.  It gave us time to slow down and really take time to understand that, oh my gosh, we're having a baby.

So...  I'd say, if you can find anything, I'd try to take it.  If not, don't sweat it.  Maybe get a book from the library or something.  Good luck!

mysticporter

Ugh, I'd be irritated.  Are you planning med-free or drugs for pain relief?  I found the class useful, they gave information on a variety of med-free pain management strategies, as well as talked about the drugs that are available and the hospital procedures.  I'd say, talk to your OB/the hospital, and see if it's at all possible for you to get the reading material from the class (if they provide any), and arrange for a hospital tour.  I would hope given the circumstance they would do that, and at that time I would ask the tour giver to give you the total low-down on procedures there, etc., and answer any questions you can think of.  If you have friends with kids or who are L/D nurses, ask them about their labor experiences, too, and if some of them can perhaps recommend a class you might not have found somehow.  They might be able to show you some breathing techniques (that's the only thing I can think of that I would find hard to research online/books, much easier to have someone show you).

tmbuchmann

Our birthing class with DS was really informative but it was a two day class on Saturday and Sunday.  We ended up missing Sunday's class and the nurse scheduled us for a private tour.  GL!!

Mrs. Beeson

I don't know what to do on this either. I have to travel a bunch for work and I won't be around to take a childbirth class. My midwife suggest I do it, plus I do really want to meet other women who are pregnant. I have been told there are weekend classes you can take.  So that you get it all done in one swoop. Maybe look into that?

ZooBaby2010

Are there any other hospitals in the area?  Maybe they might have classes?  You could also ask your doctor.  Perhaps they know of somewhere else? 

It might be worth a drive to get the classes in.  Everything I've been told makes me think I'll regret not going to them.

Sarahk8

wow, I cant believe they canceled the class, thats kinda mean. even if there were only 3 that signed up thats still 3 couples that need the class. its not like its a damn cooking class its childbirth! If you cant find a class I would do alot of reading and maybe get some videos.

DorothyandMatt

My hospital classes were all full so I googled birthing classes in my area & found one really close to my apartment. They have a 5 week or a weekend (we're taking the weekend). ?Also ask the ladies on your local board they might know of classes.