Birthing classes—also referred to as childbirth classes or prenatal classes—are classes intended to prepare expectant parents for labor, delivery, and early parenting. The classes are normally conducted by trained staff such as midwives, childbirth educators, or nurses.
They address a broad topic list, such as:
Some classes even provide hands-on practice with labor positions and newborn care fundamentals.
Childbirth is a natural process, but it can be intimidating—particularly if you don't know what to anticipate. Childbirth classes reduce fear by providing you with clear information, helpful tools, and a sense of control.
Most parents report that going to birthing classes helped their labor experience feel more manageable and less intimidating.
The majority of experts suggest beginning prenatal classes during your second or early third trimester, which is between 24 and 30 weeks of pregnancy. This provides you with sufficient time to finish the course before the baby is born, but not so early that you forget the information.
Starting too late—say, after 36 weeks—can make it harder to find available slots or finish the class before delivery. If your pregnancy is considered high-risk or if you’re expecting multiples, your doctor may suggest starting earlier.
You can always talk to your doctor to get personalized advice.
Prenatal classes are available in various formats. Some are workshops held on a single day, and others are classes held every week for 4 to 6 weeks. You can select the one that best suits your time.
Some clinics or hospitals also provide online versions of childbirth classes for those who want to learn at their own pace or want flexible timing.
Regardless of which format you opt for, be sure to finish the course before your due date. This keeps you adequately prepared for labor, delivery, and early parenthood.
A typical birthing class covers a balanced curriculum. Here's a list of what you can expect to learn:
Get an idea about the signs of labor, what happens in each stage, and when to go to the hospital.
Find alternatives such as breathing techniques, massage, epidurals, or alternatives like water birth.
Receive tips on making a birth plan and making good decisions should unexpected circumstances happen.
Your support person or partner will be taught how to support you, whether that's giving you encouragement or supporting you in getting into comfort positions.
Understand routine interventions like inductions, C-sections, and forceps or vacuum use.
Learn about breastfeeding, diapering, swaddling, and what to expect in the first few days postpartum.
Definitely. Parents get nervous about labor and delivery, particularly if they have heard horror stories or seen graphic scenes on film. Childbirth classes demystify what actually happens during birth and how you can cope with the experience.
Being educated reduces fear. Having knowledge of what contractions are like, when you should push, or how to breathe properly can give you a confidence boost. And being in a class with other expectant parents reminds you that you are not alone.
Yes, not all birthing classes are created equal. Based on your desires and expectations, you can select from:
Emphasize natural birth methods, breathing, and relaxation.
Promotes partner-coached birth and medication-free natural birth.
Applies visualization and self-hypnosis to cope with pain and stress.
Typically instructed by nurses or midwives and cover hospital policies, tours, and medical options.
Some classes concentrate on natural approaches, while others get you ready for medical interventions. Pick the one that best suits your birth plan and comfort level.
At Surya Hospital, we offer comprehensive birthing classes as part of our maternity care services. The easiest way to get started is by speaking with your obstetrician or midwife during your regular check-ups—they’ll guide you on how to register and what to expect.
You can also call our hospital directly or check our website to find out about childbirth classes available. Our classes are instructed by qualified professionals and are created to assist expectant parents from start to finish.
Not feeling like committing to a traditional classroom setting? We also have online birthing classes, which are perfect for parents with hectic schedules or who reside far away. These online sessions offer the same hands-on information and emotional comfort as in-class instruction.
If you're looking for trusted, professional prenatal classes near you, Surya Hospital is here to help you prepare for a safe and confident childbirth experience.
Most prenatal classes are not just lectures and, at times, involve light physical exercise. Here are some things you can take with you:
If it's an online class, keep your environment quiet, and ensure you have a good internet connection.
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