Choosing a Childbirth Course
When you think about a childbirth class, do you get visions of women with round bellies sitting on birth balls breathing through the words “hee, hee, hoo?” While controlled breathing can be very helpful, there’s so much more to childbirth education.
There’s your standard hospital childbirth course which usually goes over information about hospital procedures, possibly a tour, and basic education. There are a few other options out there as well. I truly believe the more informed you are going into your birth, the more prepared you will be and the less stress you will feel. Its important to know what each of these classes entails so you can make the right decision for your family. I’ve compiled a list of a few of the more popular childbirth courses and some basic information about each of them.
Gentlebirth
Gentlebirth was developed in 2006 by Tracy Donegan, a trained midwife.
The Gentlebirth website states “GentleBirth combines brain science, birth science and technology to empower positive birth through preparation, Our program, which includes training and education in mindfulness, hypnosis, CBT and sports psychology is well established, backed by evidence based research and the successful positive births and testimonials of thousands of women around the world”
One aspect of GentleBirth that I found helpful is their mobile app. The mobile app includes guided meditations for use throughout your pregnancy, birth, postpartum and beyond.
In Grand Rapids, Brenda Baar teaches GentleBirth courses. Brenda goes into the changes that occur in the body during childbirth and the science behind how mindfulness and meditation can impact the body . I took Brenda’s course last year and I can tell you firsthand this class in engaging, informative and will leave you feeling great about your upcoming birth.
You can find more information about GentleBirth Here
If you are in the Grand Rapids area, you can find information about Brenda’s class Here
The Bradley Method
The Bradley Method was developed by Robert A. Bradley, M.D. As a “husband-coached childbirth” in 1947 This class focuses on “natural” childbirth and preparing your partner to support you best during labor.
The Bradley method is interesting in that it is a 12 week format. This may seem like a long commitment, however the amount of detail and preparation you receive is well worth the time.
The Bradley Method website breaks down the 12 weeks of this course as:
1)Introduction to The Bradley Method
2)Nutrition in Pregnancy
3) Pregnancy
4) The Coach’s Role
5) Introduction to the first stage of labor
6)Introduction to the second stage of labor
7) Planning your birth
8) Variations and complications/ postpartum planning
9) Advanced first stage techniques
10) Advanced Second Stage Techniques
11) Being a great coach/are you ready?
12) Preparing for your new family
A Bradley Method class also gives you and your partner dedicated time for 12 weeks to spend some time together preparing for the birth of your baby.
Our local Bradley Method instructor is Kathryn Wells. I had the opportunity last month to sit in on the last week of Kathryn’s current class. Kathryn’s students and her had developed rapport over the 12 weeks and it was clear that they were knowledgeable about the ins and outs of labor and delivery. She kept the class fun with Birth Jeopardy and a “diaper the baby” game. You’ll leave this class excited to have soaked up 12 weeks of birth knowledge and feeling prepared.
You can learn more about The Bradley Method Here
If you are local, you can find more information on Kathryn’s class Here
Evidence based birth
Evidence based birth was founded by Rebecca Dekker, Phd, RN.
On the Evidence Based Birth site, Rebecca states, “I created the Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class to skillfully mentor you and your partner in evidence based care, comfort measures, and advocacy, so that you can embrace your birth and parenting experiences with courage and confidence.”
The Evidence Based Birth Website also states that their course includes:
Mentorship from an experienced Evidence Based Birth Instructor
6 virtual classes with your EBB Instructor and classmates to prepare for the labor process and practice your labor skills
Five weeks of online videos for you and your partner to watch together
BONUS: Breastfeeding and newborn care videos
BONUS: Four video chats with your Instructor
BONUS: Earn points throughout the class to get prizes at the end!
Evidence Based Birth courses are broken up into 6 separate classes. They are currently all online format.
I have not personally had the opportunity to sit in on an Evidence Based Birth course.
You can learn more about Evidence Based Birth courses Here
Lamaze
Remember that “hee, hee, hoo” picture you got in your head earlier, you were probably thinking about old school Lamaze classes. While controlled breathing can be helpful, Lamaze classes have changed immensely over the years.
The Lamaze Technique was founded by Elisabeth Bing and Marjorie Karmel based in part by the teachings of Dr. Fernand Lamaze. According to the Lamaze International website, “The mission of Lamaze International is to advance safe and healthy pregnancy, birth and early parenting through evidence-based education and advocacy. “
They state that they strive to achieve this by:
Supporting you with science-backed pregnancy, birth and parenting information taught by certified childbirth educators.
Guiding you as you navigate all of your options, and their benefits and risks.
Helping you understand how your body was designed for birth, and encouraging you to work with your body’s natural abilities.
Providing strategies for comfort and coping with pain during labor, reducing unnecessary medical interventions, and receiving continuous support during labor and birth.
Encouraging bonding between you and your baby, with the importance of skin-to-skin contact and time to get to know your new baby after birth.
Lamaze childbirth courses focus on The Lamaze Six Healthy Birth Principles.
Let Labor begin on its own.
Walk, move around and change positions throughout labor.
Bring a loved one, friend or doula for continuous supporting
Avoid interventions that are not medically necessary
Avoid giving birth on your back and follow your body's urges to push
Keep mother and baby together; its best for mother, baby and breastfeeding.
I have not personally had the opportunity to sit in on a Lamaze course.
You can learn more about Lamaze classes, Here
I don’t doubt that whichever course you and your partner land on, you will gain great knowledge and useful skills. The important part is choosing the class that best meets the need of you and your partner. Covid-19 has changed the format of many of these classes. While some are able to meet in person (socially distanced of course), others have switched to completely online platforms. Take time to talk with your partner and weigh the options before diving into one course. You’re preparing for one of the biggest moments of your life.
Is there a course that I missed? One you would recommend? Feel free to leave the name in the comments!
”Fear comes from the lack of knowledge and a state of ignorance. The best remedy for fear is to gain knowledge.”
-Debasish Mridha
Have questions about how we can help you have a more positive birth? Let’s chat! Consultations are always free.
