Childbirth Classes Concord CA

Fewer changes in life bring as much anticipation and awe as awaiting the birth of your baby - especially if you've never trodden this path before. Most of your entire pregnancy you are, no doubt, excited and looking forward to the day when you get to actually hold your little bundle of joy. But probably more than anything else you look to that day - D day - DELIVERY day with much apprehension and concern. For those who have the experience of already delivering a baby - the experience can still be just as anticipatory - but especially for first time moms - it's a day of much expectation - expectation and trepidation about what labor and birth is like.

It is the fear of the unknown that scares some of us the most. But with childbirth this doesn't have to be the case. In most areas - childbirth classes are offered. These classes help you to understand what will take place on that day - as well as offer ways of coping and dealing with labor and delivery. There is no reason to face this very important day - without being somewhat prepared. Even if you live in an area that doesn't offer childbirth classes - you can greatly benefit by going to a bookstore (online or otherwise) or even to the library and reading books on the subject. But if you are offered childbirth classes - it would be wise to take them - especially if this is your first baby. Even with 2nd and subsequent pregnancies - a refresher course would do you some good.

There are several schools of thought on childbirth.

Grantly Dick-Read

These classes combine relaxation techniques and prenatal education to prepare you for labor and delivery. This thought was originally from a nurse, Margaret Gamper who inspired Dr. Dick-Read to develop this method in the 1940's. These classes usually begin in the 4th month of pregnancy. You can obtain information on local classes by writing to : Midwest Parentcraft Center, 627 Beaver Rd, Glenview, IL 60025 or by calling 312-248-8100

Bradley Method

Also known as the original "husband-coached" delivery method. Bradley teaches nutrition and exercises to prepare for the big day. Classes usually start in the 5th or 6th month of pregnancy. This method is opposite of Lamaze in that it incorporates deep breathing and coaching the laboring mom to look inward and focus upon what her body is doing - opening up to allow her baby to be born. Bradley promotes drug-free births and is used by a lot of homebirth moms. For more information contact: American Academy of Husband-Coached Childbirth, P.O. Box 5224, Sherman Oaks, CA 91413; 1-800-4ABIRTH

Lamaze

Developed by Dr. Ferdinand Lamaze, teaches the laboring mother to look outside her body - to a focal point - while incorporating breathing techniques to ease through labor and delivery. You may obtain more information on Lamaze by contacting the American Society for Psychoprophylaxis in Obstetrics, 1840 Wilson Blvd.., Suite 204, Arlington, VA 22201; 1-800-368-4404

"Prepared" Childbirth Classes

Some HMO...