The childbirth preparation course

Clear answers to key questions on procedures, timing, and organization

When you think about the upcoming birth, you may feel not only anticipation but also uncertainty and nervousness. A childbirth preparation course gives moms and dads the opportunity to actively engage with the birth process and clear up any concerns. We’ve summarized what you can expect from a childbirth preparation course, why taking part is beneficial, and when the right time to attend is.

Should I attend a childbirth preparation course?

The goal of a childbirth preparation course is to support expectant mothers throughout pregnancy, helping them physically as well as emotionally prepare for birth and the first period afterward, and to provide comprehensive information about the processes in the body during pregnancy and childbirth. Participation is voluntary, so it’s up to you whether you attend one. Especially for women expecting their first child and their Partners however, participation is recommended. The reason is that engaging with and preparing for childbirth can strengthen your trust in your body, ease fears, and positively influence the course of birth .

What happens during the childbirth preparation course?

Childbirth preparation courses can vary greatly in their approach and have individual focuses. What they all have in common is that they take place in small groups and are usually led by midwives. Each session focuses on a different topic to help you prepare for childbirth. Certain topics are covered in every preparation course:

Additionally, practical exercises are usually included:

  • Exercises for body awareness, such as sensing the cervix and the pelvic floor

  • Learning breathing techniques that can support childbirth and help relieve pain during the process

  • Relaxation exercises that help you regain strength during the breaks between contractions

  • Exercises to strengthen areas such as the back and pelvic floor, which are particularly stressed during pregnancy and childbirth

In addition to these exercises for pregnancy and childbirth, the course also prepares you for your first days with your baby. Especially if this is your first child, it can be very helpful for you and your partner to learn how to hold, change, and dress your baby properly, and what to keep in mind when it comes to nutrition.

If your course is led by the midwife who will also support you during birth and/or postpartum care, it’s a great opportunity to get to know her better. If the course is held at the hospital, you can usually visit the delivery room beforehand—which can help ease anxiety about the birth for many expectant mothers. Finally, the course gives you the chance to meet other expectant parents in your area. You’ll likely run into some of them later at the playground.

Haven’t met the mom or dad you’ll be sitting next to at the sandbox yet? Then the Baby Buddies feature in the LILLYDOO app can help you find parent friendships: With Baby Buddies you can connect digitally with other expectant parents or families in your area who are a good match for you.

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When is the right time for a childbirth preparation course and how long does it last?

A childbirth preparation course typically includes 14 sessions and takes place once a week over seven to eight weeks. The further along you are in your pregnancy and the larger your belly becomes, the more challenging some exercises may feel. Therefore, it’s best to start the course between the 25th and 30th week of pregnancy , so that it ends about four weeks before the estimated due date. The multi-week course allows you to ease into the topics and gives you time to internalize the exercises. In addition, at the end of each session, you have the opportunity to ask individual questions about how your pregnancy is progressing.

As an alternative to the multi-week course, two-day intensive courses are also offered. These usually take place over a weekend, with six hours each day. Expectant parents who find it difficult to attend a regular course appreciate the easier planning and the intensive focus on the topics in these compact courses.

Depending on demand, there may also be waiting times for certain childbirth preparation courses—so it’s worth starting early (around the 20th week of pregnancy) to find the right course for you and register.

Where are childbirth preparation courses offered and what types of courses are available?

Childbirth preparation courses are offered by various institutions such as hospitals, midwifery practices, birth centers, women’s and family centers, and adult education centers. In addition to regular preparation courses, there are also many courses with additional offerings, such as:

Find out about the options well in advance and choose what best suits you and your needs. Your midwife or doctor will also have a good overview of what’s available in your area and can provide helpful information.

An alternative for expectant parents who cannot attend a regular course is an online course. You can participate flexibly from home and schedule the sessions as you wish. The disadvantage of online courses is that you miss the opportunity to ask personal questions and exchange with other pregnant women. In addition, the instructor cannot support you in person with the exercises or correct your movements, for example. An online course can therefore be an option for mothers who are unable to attend in person, but it shouldn’t be the first choice if other childbirth preparation options are available. If you are in the hospital due to complications or have been prescribed bed rest at home, it may also be possible—with a medical certificate—to do childbirth preparation directly with your midwife in the hospital or at home.

Can my partner also participate in the course?

Both options are offered: courses only for expectant mothers, and courses in which a partner also participates. However, most childbirth preparation courses include at least one or two sessions attended together. Attending at least some sessions as a couple can be helpful and supports your partner in being more consciously involved in your pregnancy. In addition, they should also be well informed about childbirth so they know what to expect and can support you when the time comes. The sessions on handling infants are also helpful for both parents. Some expectant mothers prefer to discuss certain topics among themselves or with the course instructor.

Ultimately, the choice is up to you whether you attend alone, whether your partner joins you, or whether they participate only in certain sessions.

Are the costs for a childbirth preparation course covered?

Every woman has the right to participate in a childbirth preparation course, and health insurance companies cover the costs for up to 14 course hours. Additional costs of €80 to €120 may apply for your partner’s participation, which you must pay yourselves. However, some health insurance companies reimburse your partner’s costs afterward, so it’s best to ask your insurance provider directly.

A childbirth preparation course offers you the opportunity to clarify open questions about birth and to consciously take time to get to know your body and your baby. Simply knowing that you’re well prepared can help you approach the birth more calmly and with confidence. This way, you can fully focus on what matters most: the anticipation of your little explorer. We wish you all the best for the rest of your pregnancy and the birth.

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