What Prenatal Classes Do You Really Need to Take?

If you are pregnant you may be contemplating what prenatal classes you will want to take. Prenatal classes are likely offered at the hospital where you will experience your labor and delivery. Prenatal classes range from comprehensive childbirth preparation classes to more specific offerings such as Lamaze, breastfeeding basics, and infant CPR. You may be tempted to sign up for every class offered; however, it's not likely you will have the time to fit in every single class. Also, you may discover than some of the information is repetitive if you attend multiple classes. This guide will help you to determine what classes will be most beneficial for you, and your baby-to-be.

Basic Childbirth. This prenatal class is offered by most hospitals and is an all-encompassing look at the labor and delivery process. You will most likely view some videos of the birth process, look at some tools such as forceps that might be used during your labor, discuss birth plan options, and get a tour of the hospital facilities. These prenatal classes are typically offered over the course of a few weeks, or in one all day weekend class. Basic childbirth classes do not get into much detail about any one topic, but do provide a general overview of what to expect during labor and delivery. Keep in mind that not everyone who attends this class may actually want to be there. Some parents may be court-ordered to attend. Unfortunately the audience can make the class less useful for excited parents.

Basic Baby Care. This prenatal class will teach you the basics of taking care of your newborn baby. You will learn proper ways to hold a newborn, how to care for the umbilical stump, how to bathe your baby, and the proper way to put your newborn down to sleep. If you have little or no experience with babies this prenatal class may be useful to you. If you are already somewhat comfortable around babies, you may find that this class isn't really needed. Some specific questions, such as how to take care of the umbilical stump, can be answered while you're in the hospital.