Childbirth classes, sometimes called birthing classes, are a series of classes for first-time parents interested in knowing what will likely happen when their sons or daughters enter the world, rather than finding out as it happens. Thus, childbirth classes teach expecting parents what to anticipate throughout the labor and delivery process. Parents usually start childbirth classes during the third trimester or when the mother is approximately seven months along in their pregnancy.http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_center/preparing_parenthood/birth_class.html

Typically, childbirth classes consist of approximately eight weekly sessions led by a trained childbirth instructor. http://www.babycenter.com/0_childbirth-classes_161.bc During the classes, parents ask questions, discuss any worries they have and learn about different techniques. However, the exact techniques parents learn depends on the type of childbirth classes they choose to attend.

Childbirth classes are offered by hospitals, childbirth instructors such as midwives, and national birth education organizations. Parents can choose the how they want to complete the classes. For parents taking weekly classes, they spend approximately one to one and a half hours in class every week. http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_center/preparing_parenthood/birth_class.html# However, other childbirth classes are completed in one day or over a series of weekends.

Many of the classes offer different techniques with different goals for parents. For instance, Lamaze classes are childbirth sessions focus on promoting a natural birth while building mothers’ confidence to give birth. http://www.lamaze.org/ Some techniques include breathing strategies and ways to cope with the pain.

Another option for parents interested in childbirth classes is the Morgan Method classes. Morgan Method, or HypnoBirthing, teaches parents to use techniques to stay calm and focused during delivery. http://www.babycenter.com/0_childbirth-classes_161.bc However, parents can expect to listen to lectures, perform exercises and watch birthing videos during their childbirth classes.