Did you take a birthing class?

BarnStar · February 2009

DH and I debating this. The 6 week session really is not convenient for our schedules, and the weekend long one is only offered once between now and my due date, and it will be tough to schedule for us with some other things going on. We asked the OB yesterday, and he didn't seem to think it would be a big deal. The way I see it, in the heat of labor, I probably won't remember much of it anyway, and I'll have the nurses/docs there to tell me what to do. Also, my BFF offered me her workbook from the childbirth class last year (it's the same one I would take), so I can get the info that way. Am I crazy?

OB did say that the infant care/CPR and breastfeeding classes are good ones to take. But those are only one session usually and I think we can fit those in. Did you take these classes? And were they helpful? I've heard the breastfeeding class isn't as beneficial until you actually have a baby and know what you're working with.

ncsubride · February 2009

I didn't take any classes but the hospital tour.

Kerri

H&Dmay21 · February 2009

I really liked our 6 week long newborn care/childbirth/breastfeeding class. But I'm all about getting every piece of information I can. I think the childbirth class really helped know what to expect so it wasn't as scary when it happened. Plus, I ended up doing the breathing to make it through my natural delivery. I don't know if it was from the class, or if it just came naturally, but it worked! The breastfeeding class gave some really good tips to help through those difficult first few days/weeks.

ocean71506 · February 2009

We signed up for birthing class. The class was scheduled for 2 Sat. for 6 hours. We only made 1 class because I was then put on bedrest. We did fine and like you said, during labor all the breathing things I learned were out the window and the nurse guided me through it.. We did take the infant cpr class and that was well worth it.

daisy58 · February 2009

I took the classes, and honestly I found it a waste. Although I have a lot of experience with babies already. The breathing I thought would be helpful, but I did not even use it giving birth!! The nurses and Dr were great and telling me to slow down and take deep breaths.

We had to watch a CPR video before we were dishcarged, and they also had breastfeeding and other videos available to watch while we were there. Some of these we watched in class as well.

I think you'll do fine if you cannot fit it in your schedule.

Kaybee44 · February 2009

We took a childbirth class and the breathing exercises would have been great if I had gone into labor on my own. I was induced at 41w1d and didn't really have any bad contractions until about 3 hours after they started the pitocin. The breathing did actually work when the contractions were really bad and before I got my epi

I think that your doctor is right. Breastfeeding class and a infant CPR/first aid class is the way to go. It is probably good for any new parents to know infant CPR, just in case.

Kaybee44 · February 2009

In re-reading your post, a breastfeeding class may not be totally necessary just yet. It is easier to do with an actual baby. Also you would have LCs at the hospital that could help you with your latch and such.

Crazycrustacean · February 2009

I didn't take any classes or the tour. I didn't need either. The infant cpr is a good to take.?

The bfing class is better after baby is here. That way you can do it with an actual baby. Now if they have like a pre-bfing class. Just to show you the holds & stuff, that might be worth it. I gave birth at night & there was no lc on that night. The nurses were changing shift & no one wanted to show me how to bf her. I ended up giving her formula that first feeding because I didn't want her to starve.?

Crazycrustacean · February 2009

I probably should add that when I got to the hosp they told me where to go & what to do. And by the time I was there like 3 hours in agonizing pain, I got the epi.?

When you're getting ready to push the nurses tell you everything you need to know. At least mine did. ?

pumpkinhead06 · February 2009

nope. Dh and I took a tour of the hospital.

I did sign up for a free breastfeeding class at BRU, but was unable to attend...

melandscott0907 · February 2009

To be honest, i dont think a birthing class is always necessary. As you know, labor can go in so many different directions. Ditto the other ladies, that stated that the nurses will direct you with everything you will need once you are at the hospital.

By all means, a little extra knowldge is always beneficial but if you ae strapped for time; I would not stress if you are unable to attend a birthing class. Plus, every OB doctor and nurse has their own style and "plan of attack"

yellowcar · February 2009

We did take a birthing class with my first DC, and there were two really good things about it: 1) we got a hospital tour and 2) it was a great way for DH to hear all of the stuff about helping me, the birth, etc. Everything that was covered I could have found myself on the Nest at the time, but guys don't have that resource.

I think an infant care/CPR class would be extremely beneficial if you already know what goes on during birth. After BF'ing 2 babies, I have no clue how you would take a class on that before you have a baby and lactating breasts to work with.

MayBride2B2007 · February 2009

ended up being a complete and utter waste for us. especially since our instructor couldn't have been more anti medication or c-section, both things i obviously needed.

i took a bf class the week before she was born and found that more helpful (one night, 2 hours). then in the hospital they had another bf class and a child bathing class they recommended we do before discharge. neither was particularly helpful.

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