When Should I Take Birthing Classes?

Most hospitals won’t let you go home if you don’t have one—with good reason.

While the hospital provides your with conventional diapers and wipes, we recommend bringing a small set of your own non-toxic baby supplies like those from Honest so your tiny baby’s first bath and diaper are free of harsh chemicals.

Is it necessary to take birthing classes?

Yes. Not necessary in the sense that you can’t successfully have a baby without them (Trina did, and mammals have been birthing offspring without courses for thousands of years), but necessary in the sense that they make both parents drastically more prepared for childbirth.

What do birthing classes teach you?

A childbirth class is a great way to prepare for labor and birth. Depending on where you go, classes range from a one-day intensive workshop to weekly sessions lasting a month or more. The typical class consists of lectures, discussions, and exercises, all led by a trained childbirth instructor.

Are birthing classes covered by insurance?

Birthing classes help you prepare for labor and delivery and are often covered by health insurance. Without insurance coverage, these classes can cost $50 to $200.

What are prenatal classes?

Prenatal classes are good opportunities to learn about what to expect during pregnancy, in childbirth and the beginning of parenthood. In many parts of Ontario, public health units and hospitals offer prenatal classes or there may be midwives, doulas, or other prenatal educators in your area.

What do hospitals provide when you have a baby?

Usually a small pack of diapers for baby, stretchy underpants for you, a pack of pads, and a Peri bottle to clean your sensitive areas. Some hospitals give more items as well, but these things seem to be standard everywhere in my experience. Baby- nose sucker bulb, comb/brush, few diapers, and a basic baby thermometer.

How do you breathe during labor?

During the first stage of labor

• Start with a slow deep breath as your contraction starts and then slowly breathe out, releasing all physical tension from your head to your toes.
• Slowly inhale through your nose and then pause.
• Each time you exhale, focus on relaxing a different body part.

How much do birthing classes cost?

Most hospital courses run about two hours per class for four to six weeks. There are also weekend classes that compress all the information into two days. Classes cost about $60 to $100. You’ll share your class with 10 to 15 couples or more, depending on your particular hospital.

Does Medicaid cover birthing classes?

In 2010, Medicaid financed nearly 45% of all births in the United States. By federal law, all states provide Medicaid coverage for pregnancy-related services to pregnant women with incomes up to 133% of the federal poverty level (FPL) and cover them up to 60 days postpartum.

Can you be covered during birth?

During the birth, you may appreciate having your support person encourage you, sponge your forehead, or support your legs or shoulders. A nurse will be your primary caretaker for the whole time you are in the hospital or birthing center, and your doctor or midwife usually arrives when you go into active labor.