HEALTH MATTERS
By: Grace McDonald-Largie, R.N.
For expectant parents, the weeks preceding the birth of a child are fraught with emotion and expectation. Plans are being made, hopes are being discussed, dreams are being shared.
Part of a successful birth story is being prepared for the physical and emotional changes that occur with birth and in the weeks and months that follow. "Do I really need childbirth preparation classes?" is a question that is often asked.
When it comes to giving birth, the reality is that women need to do more than just show up and push. Hopefully, women enroll in a childbirth preparation and education course not just because they were told to do so or because it is something on a list of things to do before the arrival of a long-awaited baby, but because they recognize and respect that labor and delivery is hard work.
Before the due date gets too close, women should decide who will act as their coaches husband, friend or relative for it is equally necessary for this special person to receive training. A coach’s job is an important one this person needs to know what to expect and to be able to help out with breathing techniques, body positioning, massages and overall support.
It is not helpful for coaches to be a reluctant bystander who views their participation as an expected duty and is secretly fearful of the embarrassing breathing and massage techniques which they must learn. Helpful coaches often see themselves as full partners in a wonderful experience, assisting wherever possible.
Women and coaches attending childbirth preparation classes can expect to cover a variety of topics. Relaxation and breathing techniques are emphasized.
Through different types of relaxation, women learn how to work their muscle groups. Knowing ways to relax can be a helpful way to deal with contractions.
When it comes to contractions, experts agree that the use of breathing techniques is invaluable. There are several types of breathing, and women should learn their options, practice them and know that they can choose whatever type works best for them.
When women go into labor, they will require more than a nice and easy breath. Depending on the level of discomfort or pain, one of these techniques will help:
Type 1 breathing is a slow and steady intake of air through the nose and expulsion of air through the mouth. This is normal everyday breathing that enables women in labor to find a focal point, be it visual or mental. As the contractions get more intense, many women find it helpful to engage in a shallower type of breathing (Type 2) at an increased pace that sounds like a windshield wiper whisking water off the window. When needed, Type 3 breathing allows for more distraction and is often described as a series of hee-hee-hee-ho breaths.
Learning how to engage in these types of breathing, and practicing them so that they are second nature, are helpful labor-coping activities.
In addition to learning how to relax and breathe properly, childbirth education discussion groups give participants a healthy forum to share their emotions and acknowledge changes that are occurring both mentally and physically.
Many women admit to feeling quite anxious, especially if they are preparing for their first baby. Learning about the birthing process helps reduce anxiety and takes away fear of the unknown.
Throughout the course, participants can expect to cover topics such as:
Basic prenatal exercises;
Relaxation, coaching, and breathing techniques;
What it is like to be in labor;
Labor rehearsal;
Analgesia and anesthesia options;
Delivery methods;
Characteristics of a newborn baby;
Post-partum adjustments, and
How to choose a pediatrician.
A hospital tour is always included and helps expectant parents to see where all the action takes place.
One final and important aspect of the education process is the use of birthing videos. One video depicts the birthing process from early labor through delivery. Another video covers all aspects of Cesarean births.
By demystifying childbirth and all that it entails, participants walk away feeling empowered as they prepare for one of the most emotionally and physically challenging days they will experience in their lifetimes. It is imperative to build awareness and exercise freedom of choice through the knowledge of alternatives.
Childbirth classes should not be a task to be endured, but an enjoyable experience, where both parties have decided to achieve a pre-determined goal. This goal could be as simple as fine-tuning desires or style for labor; creating a network with others; being able to express and discuss concerns, or sharing helpful ideas and suggestions.
When it comes to taking a childbirth preparation classes, evaluate your needs and then decide: Should you?
Grace McDonald-Largie, R.N,. is a childbirth educator on staff at The Medical Center at Princeton. For more information about childbirth preparation or to enroll in either a six-week course or a one-day accelerated course, please call The Medical Center at (609) 497-4414. This article was prepared in collaboration with Lorraine Seabrook.