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12-27-2012 at 12:18 AM
srz0505
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Birthing Classes?

This is my first successful pregnancy and I am 23 weeks... I have been thinking about taking birthing classes yet have heard mixed reviews on whether it was actually helpful or not. Any feedback would be appreciated
 
12-27-2012 at 12:40 AM
RussianMom...
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Do you mean classes like Lamaze? My MW said they were not necessary because thats what they are there for, to help you. I don't plan on taking any labour classes, I'm just going to wing it

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12-27-2012 at 3:02 AM
Kimbus22
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I took one.  It was all descriptions of the stages of labor and different positions and all that stuff.  It all went right out the window once I was actually in labor.  But lots of people do find it helpful to be more informed.  I personally felt like just reading the materials was more than enough.

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12-27-2012 at 3:15 AM
animalcrck...
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What type of birth are you hoping for?  There are different types of birthing classes... Bradley Method, Hypnobirthing, Lamaze, Alexander, ICEA...  When it comes to medical procedures and interventions, as the patient, you are your number one advocate.  It is up to you to be as informed as possible.  As a medical provider myself, it is a HUGE pet peeve of mine when patients are not informed.  It comes across as very ignorant when you are unable to make decisions. 

When a patient says to me "well, you are the doctor, you decide" I always reply that I am only here to present the facts, risks and benefits but it is ultimately up to the patient to make any decisions. 

So yes, take a birthing class unless you are already well versed in the stages of labor, complications, possible interventions and newborn procedures.



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12-27-2012 at 3:20 AM
srz0505
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Yes and thanks for the info
 
12-27-2012 at 7:22 AM
jlpev
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I never took any classes but I read a bunch about it. Needless to say I had a csection so it really didn't matter. But I definitely think you should educate yourself on the matter.

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12-27-2012 at 7:31 AM
jteneback
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If you are hoping to avoid pain meds I would recommend it.

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12-27-2012 at 7:31 AM
pinottopar...
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FTM mom here, haven't taken any classes yet.... my doctor suggested it might be a good idea, but I'm still undecided. First of all, it's like $70 at my hospital.... I thought it would be free! We can afford it, but I'm just not sure if we want to go anyway. I plan to get an epidural, and while I know there will still be pain involved, I am not relying on breathing and natural methods to deal with contractions. Also, I just have a feeling once I go into labor I'll be pissy and crazy and if my husband tries to do breathing techniques with me I might punch him in the weiner. I have been reading lots of books, though, so I feel like I kind of know what I'm doing. I do want to learn more and know what to expect... but at the same time, I'm not sure the classes are for us.

Amanda

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12-27-2012 at 7:41 AM
Bliss+Berr...
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We are taking a prepared childbirth class that our hospital gives.  I guess it depends on the type of birth you are planning for and how you plan on getting through it.  


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12-27-2012 at 8:24 AM
jlaOK
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I took a general childbirth class when I was pregnant with DS.  Although I didn't gain a lot of new information, I did find out more about my hospital's procedures for labor and delivery.  That information was useful.

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12-27-2012 at 8:54 AM
luvmyducks
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I think it depends on the class.  I was already very educated on what happens during labor, but my OB's office offered a free childbirth classe so DH and I went.  I think it was beneficial for DH.  I tried to get him to read stuff, but he's not really a fan of reading unless it is about sports.
12-27-2012 at 10:05 AM
warriorwom...
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animalcrckr:

What type of birth are you hoping for?  There are different types of birthing classes... Bradley Method, Hypnobirthing, Lamaze, Alexander, ICEA...  When it comes to medical procedures and interventions, as the patient, you are your number one advocate.  It is up to you to be as informed as possible.  As a medical provider myself, it is a HUGE pet peeve of mine when patients are not informed.  It comes across as very ignorant when you are unable to make decisions. 

When a patient says to me "well, you are the doctor, you decide" I always reply that I am only here to present the facts, risks and benefits but it is ultimately up to the patient to make any decisions. 

So yes, take a birthing class unless you are already well versed in the stages of labor, complications, possible interventions and newborn procedures.


Thanks for your perspective. It's interesting to hear from a healthcare provider. I was just going to wing it and now I'm seriously reconsidering. 


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12-27-2012 at 10:51 AM
pamperedgi...
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pinottoparenthood:
FTM mom here, haven't taken any classes yet.... my doctor suggested it might be a good idea, but I'm still undecided. First of all, it's like $70 at my hospital.... I thought it would be free! We can afford it, but I'm just not sure if we want to go anyway. I plan to get an epidural, and while I know there will still be pain involved, I am not relying on breathing and natural methods to deal with contractions. Also, I just have a feeling once I go into labor I'll be pissy and crazy and if my husband tries to do breathing techniques with me I might punch him in the weiner. I have been reading lots of books, though, so I feel like I kind of know what I'm doing. I do want to learn more and know what to expect... but at the same time, I'm not sure the classes are for us.

that made me laugh so hard...my hospital offers the class free. so i figured it would at least be worth our time to get as informed as possible and get questions answered. i plan on going med free as long as i can. 


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12-27-2012 at 11:55 AM
nyki06
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I had a very educational midwife and doula but was still glad that I chose to take a Lamaze class. It was a good opportunity for my husband and I to do something birth related together and get on the same page. I won't be doing them this time around but I did find them to be at least semi helpful the first time. We also had a crazy couple in our group which definitely made it worth the money. 

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12-27-2012 at 4:42 PM
MourningMi...
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This. We are not taking classes but our hospital does offer L&D tours. Since this is my 2nd (hubby's 1st) and a C/S we are taking the tour so he knows what to expect.

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12-28-2012 at 12:45 AM
ShaunaSmit...
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I am a FTM and decided to do breastfeeding and newborn/infant care classes instead of a childbirth class as they are pricey so doing them all isnt an option. I figure the baby is coming either way and the nurse/doctor will tell me what I need to do as far as giving birth.

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