Prenatal classes for first-time moms
Would you buy a car without first reading up about it? Would you buy that car without test-driving it?
While we can’t compare a baby to a car (!), the preparation, especially for a first-time mom is much the same. Getting ready to welcome your first child is a monumental milestone in any parent’s life.
The thing with parenting is that it’s very much a learn-on-the-job experience but you can definitely prepare well enough beforehand. In addition to getting advice from friends and family who’ve been there, done that, changed the nappy, prenatal classes can be a haven for the first-time mom.
What’s it about?
A prenatal class is for any soon-to-be parent and it’s usually recommended to start eight to 10 weeks before your baby is due.
The fundamentals that are taught in most classes will include information, tips and advice around:
- Common signs of labour
- How to know when your water breaks
- What to do after your water breaks
- Different birth delivery options (C-section etc.)
- Pain medication during labour
- Relaxation techniques for birth
- The basics of breastfeeding
- Taking your baby home and aftercare/common newborn issues
During classes, your teachers, who would be trained midwives, instructors or pregnancy nurses, will take you and your partner through all the major birth and delivery milestones. You and the other parents are encouraged to ask as many questions as necessary to get all the information you need.
The first couple of classes usually entail getting to know each other and learning a bit about your pregnancy so far. As the classes go on, you will learn about the above-mentioned topics, but also get to share your expectations, myths or perceptions of labour and delivery.
If you’re undecided between a C-section or natural delivery, the teacher will walk you through all the options, explain the pros and cons of each and give you the candid facts on each. Your instructor may show you videos of various deliveries so you can get a realistic idea of the experience.
Get the most from classes
- Chat with and get to know the other parents. Some may be there for their second or third baby and will have invaluable information to share.
- Participate in the class simulations, breathing exercises and relaxation techniques. This is why you’re in the class - to get valuable practice, so use the time wisely and leave your embarrassment at the door. Everyone’s in the same boat, so to speak.
- Ask questions about breastfeeding. While labour and delivery are important, take the opportunity to get some breastfeeding tips as well.
- Be open and honest about your worries, fears and concerns. Chances are that the teacher has heard it all before and is experienced enough to talk you through every scenario.
- It’s okay if you don’t feel like the class is a good fit for you. Maybe the instructor/teacher’s personality is off-putting to you or you feel their views on labour differ from yours. If you are uncomfortable, cancel your sessions and find a class that suits your needs. You might also benefit from online classes.
Good to know
Remember, the teacher is there to prepare you for labour and birth as best as she can – not to necessarily sugarcoat the information. So, be ready to hear some possibly gory details!
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.