If you’re having a baby, you might wonder “should I take a childbirth class?” I’m here to tell you 5 reasons why you SHOULD (even if you want an epidural).

When I found out I was pregnant with my first baby, I had no intentions of having a natural childbirth. My ‘birth plan’ consisted of “I’ll see how it goes and get the epidural if I need to.” I knew nothing about the process, I didn’t know what was normal or even how an epidural works.

From the “fly by the seat of your pants” birth plan, to the “bullet pointed” birth plan… everyone should take a childbirth class during pregnancy!

5 reasons why you should take a childbirth class (even if you want to get an epidural)

1. You need to know what to expect. Being educated on your options will help you make better decisions for you and your baby. Do you know when to go to the hospital or call your provider? Learning birth basics and labor patterns. how an epidural works, and what your other pain management options might be (other than the epidural).
2. You might not have time to get the epidural. Your labor might move really quickly, or the anesthesiologist might not make it to you in time. Sometimes, the epidural doesn’t work 100% and you’ll need to rely on other methods to help you handle the birth. It is always best to have a backup plan.
3. Childbirth classes teach more than just how to handle labor. Birth classes also teach you about the importance of skin to skin the first hour after baby is born, as well as what normal breastfeeding looks like & some teach you how to care for your newborn when baby is only a couple of days old.
4. Childbirth classes provide a relationship. Your instructor is someone you can reach out to if you have specfic questions before & after your baby is born.

5. Childbirth classes help you carve out time for your new baby. Sometimes, the drive to and from birth class can be one of the most valuable parts! This will help mom and her partner discuss the birth of the baby and topics that might not have otherwise been discussed!

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