Choosing a prenatal class or program
- Consider where, when and how many sessions are included.
- Look for a format that fits your learning style and schedule - group, private session or online.
- Ask about the prenatal educator's experience and philosophy of the program.
- Consider what is important to you, such as:
- cost and time commitment
- information on healthy birth and factors that support it such as letting birth start on its own, walking and changing positions, having continuous support, avoiding medical interventions, following your instincts for pushing and keeping your baby with you. (More on healthy birth at Lamaze Healthy Birth Your Way.)
- information on medical procedures and interventions during labour and birth, when they are optional and when they are necessary, advantages and disadvantages for mother and baby
- making an informed choice about feeding your baby and learning how to breastfeed
- time for sharing and connecting with other new parents
- time for practising labour skills such as massage, breathing and relaxation
- time for practising new baby care such as diapering, bathing and comforting.
- Consider other interests and learning needs such as:
- single parenting, same sex parenting, couple relationship after birth
- twins or multiples
- can't make it to class for medical reasons
- need a refresher for 2nd or 3rd pregnancy
- importance of fathering
- VBAC classes (vaginal birth after cesarean)
- teen classes
- sibling class - helping a sibling adjust to a new baby in your family
- programs for newcomers to Canada
- programs for women in need of extra support
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- Visit the Links page to find prenatal programs and other resources.
Did you know that Prenatal/Childbirth Educators may be Nurses, Lactation Consultants, Midwives, Physiotherapists, La Leche League Leaders or Doulas?
They may be certified by:
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