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Why take prenatal classes?
Breast feeding & Nursing Inquiry.
This page was created by
Tanya Cruickshank
Nursing Student Kwantlen University College
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Prenatal Education & Nursing Inquiry
Prenatal or Childbirth Education classes have been in existence for almost half a century. The purpose of these classes is to help women and their partners learn information, skills and techniques to help them cope with pregnancy, labour, childbirth and skills needed as a new parent. Classes are usually a few hours one night a week and usually last for 6-8 sessions.
Often included in prenatal education is information on: - nutrition,
- fetal development,
- explanation of common medical tests and procedures.
- Parents will learn about the birth process and what to expect during labour.
- Skills used during labour such as breathing and massage will be taught and participants will be given a chance to practise the skills in class.
- New parenting skills like breastfeeding and infant care are also taught.
While it is generally believed that prenatal classes help prepare a women and her partner for the experience of labour prenatal classes are also important because they can help a women develop health promoting behaviours and develop an empowered sense of self.
Prenatal classes as give the parents-to-be an opportunity to meet and socialize with others in this exciting period in their lives.
Communities will often offer childbirth education classes for specific groups such as young mothers, single mothers and cultural groups. These environments will facilitate learning because of the atmosphere is more comfortable for these participants than mainstream couples classes.
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