Why Take a Childbirth Education Class?
Average Read Time: 5 minutes
Knowledge is power - This age-old mantra is one of the foundations of my doula practice. Not because the phrase flows off the tongue nicely, but because I firmly believe that knowledge is the key to empowerment in this world of so much (mis)information.
Throughout pregnancy and childbirth, you’re going to be inundated with information. Sorting through what’s true, what’s not, what’s best for your family, and what’s not, takes skill and time. Do I listen to my friend and her experience as a parent of two? Do I find a doula and learn from them? Do I trust my provider and his recommendations? What about that TikTok I saw about delayed cord clamping? What about this book that was given to me at my baby shower?
So figuring out how you best learn is essential as you plan your childbirth journey. I am a firm believer that taking at least one childbirth education class is essential to building a strong foundation for your own birth. Some of the benefits of a childbirth education class are:
Learn what to expect in all three stages of labor - physically, emotionally, as a partner, etc.
Understand medical protocols, practices and choices
Learn and practice coping techniques to use to navigate pain
Ask and answer questions that come up through pregnancy
Get evidence based tips and tricks from a trained birth professional
Learn about different choices you may have to make during childbirth
Learn and practice informed decision-making for your family
Navigate your fears, worries and thoughts about childbirth with safety and compassion
Build community with other families on a similar timeline to you
And many more
So how do you find a class that’s right for you? Here are some different options for childbirth education to help you make your decision:
Hospital classes - Each hospital offers childbirth classes that give both a general overview of childbirth and what protocols and procedures are normal within their specific hospital. I recommend taking the hospital class at your place of birth so that you understand how and why your birthing space will be making decisions to support your childbirth journey. This class will also give you the general logistics of what to expect on the day of your birth. However, understand that hospitals are also working to protect themselves from liability, and so there are things that they can and cannot say about childbirth. I recommend taking this class ALONG WITH an outside class, so that you get a full picture of generally what to expect in labor and delivery.
2. Group childbirth classes - There are so many groups, both in person and virtual, where you can take childbirth classes.. These classes range from multiple weeks to weekend intensives to one-day extravaganzas, which gives you a lot of choice for how to engage with the learning. One of the biggest pros of a group class is the community - you will meet other families giving birth within a few months of you, so that you can find support with other people going through the same things as you. I also know, as a CBE educator myself, that I cover a lot more non-medical comfort measures than a hospital class typically has time for. Most CBE classes are taught by a birthworker, so they bring in their knowledge and experience to class - giving more insights and helpful tips for comfort and coping! A con that generally comes up about group childbirth education classes is cost - usually this is an out-of-pocket expense in a time where saving is essential. If you need help finding a class that fits within your budget, reach out to me here. I have lots of resources in the city of Chicago! Also check with your insurance - some HSA/FSAs cover childbirth education!
3. Private childbirth classes at home - This is a great option, especially for parents who have already gone through childbirth once (or more!) before, but need a refresher on the process, or who want to do something different for their subsequent birth. This type of class can also be super specific to each family - because childbirth is so unique, a private class is a great option for a class that is tailored for each family.
4. Self-paced online childbirth classes - Many companies offer self-paced classes to go through childbirth, from Lamaze to the Body Ready Method, and many, many others. This option offers many different, uniquely focused birthing classes. A self-paced class can really help families who have a specific goal in mind (for example, they want a class focused on the anatomy and physiology of birth). This option also allows people to learn on their own timeline, which can be helpful in a world where we are required to participate in capitalism. Because there are so many online courses, I notice that it's hard for people to sort through who to really trust, since you can’t preview the courses beforehand.
Regardless of the choice that you make, I cannot stress enough how important taking a childbirth education course is. There are so many decisions to make throughout pregnancy and labor, and each family has a unique experience in their journey to parenthood. You deserve to always feel like you have all the information necessary to make informed decisions for your birth and your baby.
I have some recommendations for finding great childbirth education classes in Chicago!
Chicago Family Picnic - caveat: I teach childbirth education here! This organization does so much in support of families. They offer both 5-week and weekend intensive childbirth education classes, newborn care classes, breast/chestfeeding classes, and new parent play groups. They also connect with massage therapists, pelvic floor PTs, mental health professionals and doulas to offer support for a wide variety of needs.
Birthing from Within with Mel Haley - Mel (they/them) is an incredible doula and teacher, who uses lots of art, hands on support and evidence-based information to empower families in their childbirth journey. This class is traditionally held in person. Check out their website for more information!
Evidence Based Birth Childbirth Education with Carly Ann Braun - Carly Ann (she/her) is a fabulous midwife and teacher whose class centers around one of my favorite resources to share with clients - Evidence Based Birth. This class is usually a hybrid of self-paced videos, in person classes and online discussions. Their website is linked here!
Want more help navigating the myriad options for childbirth education? Reach out to me here!
