Prenatal Classes for Pregnant Women
Prenatal classes may come in various forms, but all have the same aim - to help prepare you for labour, birth, and early parenthood. Your doctor may be able to recommend a class or your hospital may offer them as part of the pregnancy care package. It's recommended that you and your husband go together for Prenatal classes and breastfeeding workshops. It may help you to have a better birth experience, as well as prepare you for coping in the early weeks after the birth. Classes tend to be small, so you and your husband can take part in them actively.
What topics do prenatal classes cover?
The content of the classes varies from place to place. Some concentrate purely on physical and emotional preparation for labour and birth. Others provide a more rounded course for pregnant women and their labour partners. In general, antenatal or prenatal classes cover topics such as:
- Looking after yourself in pregnancy, including suggestions about good nutrition, preparation of healthy foods and what not to eat.
- Various breathing techniques for managing pain in labour.
- Options available for a pain-free delivery.
- Relaxation techniques
- Prenatal yoga and asanas for maintaining flexibility and stamina.
- Preparing for labour and birth.
