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Childbirth Preparation Course

Osher Ben Or, Certified Midwife
22 June 2024

One of the best ways to prepare physically and mentally for childbirth is to take a childbirth preparation course.

Here are some topics the preparation course typically address:

  • When to come to the maternity ER.
  • Breathing techniques, massages, and relaxation for managing contraction pain.
  • Coping strategies for labor pain.
  • Guidance on how your partner can provide you with help and support during labor.
  • Information about assisted deliveries, cesarean sections, and potential medical interventions in the delivery room.
  • Pelvic floor protection.
  • Post-partum period.

Some courses discuss psychological coping strategies for the transition to parenthood, breastfeeding, nutrition, and more.

Before selecting a course, it is recommended to have knowledge about the courses currently available, their duration and frequency, the depth and comprehensiveness of their content, the instructors, and their associated costs.

The moment of childbirth, creating and changing life, can elicit a range of emotions, including happiness and excitement, as well as uncertainty and fear of the unfamiliar. One effective way to manage fear is by gaining knowledge about what to expect, as knowledge empowers.

Prior to labor, dedicate time to learning about the process, understanding what lies ahead, and preparing yourself. A highly effective method for preparing for labor and the anticipated stages is enrolling in a childbirth preparation course.

The course provides an in-depth exploration of what lies ahead, facilitating both physical and mental preparation. Currently, there is a diverse range of childbirth preparation courses, allowing each woman or couple to choose the one that best suits their preferences.

It is advisable to attend the course with your chosen labor companion, as this enables both of you to familiarize yourselves with the delivery room's procedures, particularly if it is your first experience, and to acquire essential information to provide optimal support. If your partner accompanies you, it can enhance the experience for both of you as a couple.

Topics in preparation courses

The preparation courses vary, but most will address the following topics:

  • When to come to the maternity ER
  • Breathing techniques, massages, and relaxation for managing contraction pain
  • How to manage labor pain
  • Support and assistance of your partner during childbirth
  • Assisted deliveries, cesarean section and potential medical interventions
  • Pelvic floor protection
  • Post-partum period

Where can you take childbirth preparation courses

Various organizations, both public and private, offer childbirth preparation courses:

HMOs

The course is led by a maternity nurse or a midwife, occasionally supplemented by an obstetrician and a physiotherapist. Private childbirth preparation courses are eligible for partial reimbursement by HMOs, subject to the terms of your insurance plan. Read more on Kol Habriut website (Hebrew).

Hospitals

The course is led by the hospital midwives, occasionally supplemented by an obstetrician and a physiotherapist. Some hospitals reimburse the cost of the course if you give birth in their delivery room.

Private courses

These courses are offered both in groups and individually. They are usually led by a midwife, a physiotherapist, or a doula. The highlights and the cost vary from course to course.

Differences between courses

  • Duration: some childbirth preparation courses consist of 2–3 sessions, while others span multiple weeks. Additionally, some courses are condensed into a single weekend session.
  • Meeting format: courses can be conducted in-person with a guidance team, or there is the option of an online course via Zoom.
  • Course highlights: each course offers unique highlights; for instance, focus on natural birth preparation, preparation for twin labor, and more.

What should you remember when selecting a childbirth preparation course?

  • Practical and in-depth course: it is essential to select a course that provides in-depth information about the important topics mentioned above.
  • Preparation for several scenarios: a childbirth preparation course should equip you not only for a typical labor experience but also provide information and tools for handling various scenarios. This includes preparedness for assisted deliveries and emergency cesarean sections. It is important that the course provide the tools to adapt effectively to different situations.
  • The course instructor: it is recommended to inquire about the course instructor’s qualifications and training experience.
  • Start on time: it is recommended to start the course around week 30, although even later is possible according to the length of the course and your availability.
  • You do not need to spend a substantial amount: you do not need to spend a substantial amount on a childbirth preparation course. Most basic courses provide all you need to know before birth.

After you have shown interest and learned and understood your birth preferences, it is recommended that you prepare a birth plan that will help you organize the labor process itself.

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