There is a lot to do to prepare for a new baby. One of the important things to add to your checklist is to attend a childbirth or newborn education class. These classes can give you and your partner more confidence, and help put your mind and body at ease as you prepare for birth.
Here’s a basic primer on childbirth classes, including what to expect at a childbirth class, when to start and where to find classes in southwest Ohio.
What You’ll Learn in a Childbirth Class
Childbirth classes cover a broad range of topics that inform and empower parents-to-be. Most classes will go over the stages of labor and delivery, including recognizing signs of labor. You’ll also learn about pain management options and how to relax during labor, potential complications and interventions, and lots more. If possible, your partner or support person should attend these classes with you, so you’re both on the same page.
Other topics you might learn at a class include:
- breastfeeding
- newborn care
- newborn safety, including car seat instruction
- postpartum recovery
- local resources, such as doula services, lactation consultants and pediatricians
These classes are a safe space for parents, so bring your questions and concerns. They’re also a great way to meet other expecting families who will have a child around your child’s age — potential play dates!
When to Take a Childbirth Class
According to Lamaze International, when to take a class depends on the type of class you’re considering.
General Childbirth Class: Take this class late in your second trimester or early in your third trimester. Taking it too early in your pregnancy might mean forgetting some of the information before the big day.
VBAC Class: If you’re considering a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), it’s important to learn about the options and considerations as soon as possible. Taking a class in the first trimester makes sense, with a possible refresher class in the third trimester.
Breastfeeding Class: Take this class in your third trimester, ideally after you’ve taken a general childbirth class, so you better understand how labor and birth can affect breastfeeding.
Childbirth Classes Around Southwest Ohio
There are many childbirth resources around town. Here are just some of the class offerings you’ll find at local hospitals to ease your journey into parenthood.
Christ Hospital
- Baby Care Basics
- Breastfeeding Classes
- Lamaze Classes
- Natural Childbirth Course
Kettering Health
- Childbirth Preparation
- Baby Care
- Breastfeeding Preparation
- Dad Class
- Grandparents Class
Mercy Health
- Preparing for Childbirth
- Infant Care and Breastfeeding
- Baby Care Class
TriHealth
- Cesarean Delivery Class
- Five-Week Childbirth Series
- Unmedicated Childbirth
- Childbirth Preparation
UC Health
- Preparing for Labor and Delivery
- Preparing for Breastfeeding
- Baby Care Basics
Beyond the local hospitals, you’ll also find classes, coaches and independent maternity centers all around southwest Ohio. A quick internet search will turn up a variety of local resources, such as BWS Doulas Agency in Kettering and Effloresce in Cincinnati. These are also great resources for finding midwives, doulas, natural birthing techniques, maternity nutrition and wellness, and lots more.
