Bradley Method, Lamaze, Hypnobirth, Calmbirth, yoga, antenatal classes...
What is the difference and which one is for me?
A recent study showed that the "Complementary Therapies for Labour and Birth study protocol significantly reduced epidural use and caesarean section." The 'complementary therapies' used by researchers reflect those used by various private childbirth educators. This study is available to download in the Resources. Hospital-based antenatal education does not allow for the depth these complementary therapies offer, so whilst you can gain some insight by attending your (usually free) hospital offered classes, the investment into a private class can make a significant positive difference.
So how do you decide which class or classes to attend, whether you can read 'the book', or do the online course, or invest in doula care?
There are group classes for woman and their birth partner to attend together and classes aimed at Dads Only.
Some classes focus on a particular method, such as breathing or meditation, others cover a range of movements, combined with breathing. You may choose based on the recommendation of a friend, or because you are drawn to a particular technique. If it feels right for you, chances are, it is. For many, the appeal of attending group classes is meeting like-minded people at the same life stage.
Some people find the thought of attending group classes appalling. Others find simply getting to a class difficult. Some have reluctant partners. For these people, they have the option of private classes (sometimes in their own home, with a doula or birth education specialist), online courses, print books, e-books and audio (podcasts, books, cds).
Childbirth Education focuses on preparing you physically for labour and birth. The topics covered include techniques and methods to help you manage your contractions, and to aid your birth partner in supporting you. You will learn about the biology of birth, and what you can expect physically during labour and birth.
There are also classes, and resources, that help you prepare for beyond birth. 'Early Days' courses and Breastfeeding Education provide understanding into normal newborn behaviour. This is sometimes referred to as the 'fourth trimester'. As with Childbirth Education Classes, hospital-based breastfeeding and early days classes are usually limited in depth and do not offer on-going support. The Australian Breastfeeding Association offers Breastfeeding Education Classes during pregnancy and on-going support through your first year.
Where does INFORMED BIRTH PREPARATION fit in?
Informed Birth Preparation is the 'before' that complements the 'during' and 'after' education, completing the Trinity of Birth Preparation. Informed Birth Preparation prepares a Birth Map, with various pathways; your expected pathway includes your 'during' birth education. A doula helps bring all these elements together, providing support before, during and after the birth.
See more FAQ
So how do you decide which class or classes to attend, whether you can read 'the book', or do the online course, or invest in doula care?
There are group classes for woman and their birth partner to attend together and classes aimed at Dads Only.
Some classes focus on a particular method, such as breathing or meditation, others cover a range of movements, combined with breathing. You may choose based on the recommendation of a friend, or because you are drawn to a particular technique. If it feels right for you, chances are, it is. For many, the appeal of attending group classes is meeting like-minded people at the same life stage.
Some people find the thought of attending group classes appalling. Others find simply getting to a class difficult. Some have reluctant partners. For these people, they have the option of private classes (sometimes in their own home, with a doula or birth education specialist), online courses, print books, e-books and audio (podcasts, books, cds).
Childbirth Education focuses on preparing you physically for labour and birth. The topics covered include techniques and methods to help you manage your contractions, and to aid your birth partner in supporting you. You will learn about the biology of birth, and what you can expect physically during labour and birth.
There are also classes, and resources, that help you prepare for beyond birth. 'Early Days' courses and Breastfeeding Education provide understanding into normal newborn behaviour. This is sometimes referred to as the 'fourth trimester'. As with Childbirth Education Classes, hospital-based breastfeeding and early days classes are usually limited in depth and do not offer on-going support. The Australian Breastfeeding Association offers Breastfeeding Education Classes during pregnancy and on-going support through your first year.
Where does INFORMED BIRTH PREPARATION fit in?
Informed Birth Preparation is the 'before' that complements the 'during' and 'after' education, completing the Trinity of Birth Preparation. Informed Birth Preparation prepares a Birth Map, with various pathways; your expected pathway includes your 'during' birth education. A doula helps bring all these elements together, providing support before, during and after the birth.
See more FAQ
