The childbirth preparation course

The childbirth preparation course

When thinking about the upcoming birth, some expectant parents 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 have summarized what you can expect from a childbirth preparation course, why participation 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 accompany expectant mothers through pregnancy, helping them physically as well as emotionally to prepare for the birth and the first period afterwards and to provide comprehensive information about the processes in the body during pregnancy and childbirth. Participation in a course is voluntary, so it is up to you whether you attend one or not. Especially women expecting their first child and their Partners however, participation is recommended. The reason for this is that engaging with and preparing for childbirth already strengthens your trust in your body, alleviates fears, and the Positively influence the course of birth can.

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 class session focuses on a different topic to prepare for childbirth. Certain topics are covered in every preparation course:

Additionally, practical exercises are usually conducted:

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

  • Learn breathing techniques that can facilitate childbirth and alleviate pain during the process

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

  • Exercises to strengthen body 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 childbirth preparation course also prepares you for the first time with your baby. Especially if it is your first child, it will surely help you and your partner to learn how to hold, change, and dress your baby properly, and what to consider regarding nutrition.

If your course takes place with the midwife who also cares for your birth and/or postpartum care, the childbirth preparation course is a good opportunity to get to know her better. If the course is held at the hospital, there is usually also the possibility to visit the delivery room beforehand – which can help reduce some of the anxiety about the birth for many expectant mothers. Finally, the course gives you the opportunity to meet other expectant parents in your area. You will surely see some of them later at the playground.

In the childbirth preparation course, the mom or dad is not yet present, with whom you will sit together at the sandbox in the future? Then this will help you Baby Buddies Feature of the LILLYDOO app continues in search of parent friendships: With Baby Buddies Do you find digital other expectant parents or families in your area that match 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 your pregnancy is and the larger your belly becomes, the more intense some exercises will probably be for you. Therefore, it is best to start between the 25th and 30th week of pregnancy with the course, so that it ends about four weeks before the estimated due date. The multi-week course allows for a slow engagement with the topics and gives you time to internalize the exercises. Additionally, at the end of each course session, you have the opportunity to ask individual questions about your pregnancy progress.

Alternative to the multi-week course are also two-day intensive courses 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 engagement with the topics in these compact courses.

Depending on the level of 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 offer well in advance and choose what best suits you and your needs. Your midwife or your doctor also certainly has a good overview of the options in your area and can provide you with helpful information.

An alternative for expectant parents who cannot attend a regular course are online courses. You can participate in these flexibly from home and schedule the hours as you wish. The disadvantage of online courses is that the opportunity to ask personal questions and the exchange with other pregnant women is missing. Additionally, the instructor cannot personally support you with the exercises or correct your movements, for example. An online course therefore offers an alternative for mothers for whom attending a course is not possible but should not be the first choice if other options for childbirth preparation are available. If you are in the hospital due to complications or have been prescribed bed rest at home, it is also possible, with a medical certificate, to conduct childbirth preparation directly with your midwife at the hospital or at home.

Can my partner also participate in the course?

It is being both variants offered, courses only for expectant mothers and those in which the partner also participates. However, most childbirth preparation courses include at least one or two hours attended together. Attending at least some course sessions together can be helpful and assist your partner in consciously participating in your pregnancy. Additionally, they should also be well-informed about childbirth to prepare for what to expect and to support you when the time comes. The sessions on handling infants are also helpful for both parents. Some expectant mothers prefer to discuss other topics among themselves or with the course instructor.

Ultimately, it is up to you with the choice of the course left to oneself , whether you visit him alone, whether your partner accompanies you, or whether they only participate 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 the costs for up to 14 course hours are covered by health insurance companies. Additional costs of €80 to €120 will be incurred for your partner's participation, which you must pay yourselves. However, some health insurance companies reimburse the costs for your partner afterwards; it is best to inquire directly with your insurance company.

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. Just knowing that you are well prepared helps you to face the birth more calmly and with confidence. This way, you can fully focus on the essentials: 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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