Are there different types of childbirth education classes?
Some childbirth education classes cover specific types of births, such as C-section, vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC) and multiple births. Refresher courses are available for parents who simply want to review the basics. Other classes focus on specific methods of childbirth. For example: • Lamaze. The goal of Lamaze is to increase confidence in your ability to give birth. Lamaze classes help you understand how to cope with pain in ways that both facilitate labor and promote comfort — including focused breathing, movement and massage. • Bradley. The Bradley Method emphasizes that birth is a natural process. You’re encouraged to trust your body, focusing on diet and exercise throughout pregnancy. You’re taught to manage labor through deep breathing and the support of your partner or labor coach. Many other classes borrow elements from these popular methods. In addition, you may find classes on other approaches to childbirth, including hypnotherapy and water birth.
