8 Lessons You Will Learn In Your Maternity Classes
All the experiences that a woman goes through during pregnancy can cause multiple insecurities. Anxiety and stress are triggered when you don’t know what you will face at this stage. Therefore, to dispel doubts a bit and feel prepared, maternity classes are a good option.
In these lessons you will learn about the possible symptoms, the care you require and how to deal with certain situations. Both fathers and mothers should be involved in these types of activities to perform a much more successful job.
If it is your first pregnancy, it is recommended that you check with your health service about the existence of these courses.
“The pregnant woman, in addition to the changes experienced in her own body, feels fear in relation to childbirth, newborn care and self-care during pregnancy and the puerperium. This fear can be reduced by means of an adequate preparation in which the pregnant woman, her partner and her family are involved “
–The Secretary of Health of Bogotá–
What will you learn in your maternity classes?
1.- The nature of labor and birth
In maternity classes you will learn important things about labor and what happens after birth. They will teach you to identify the signs that characterize the moment of giving birth so that you are prepared to face them.
You will also know what happens to the baby when it makes its way inside your body.
2.- The channeling of fears
By meeting other women who live in the same situation as you, you can talk about your fears with greater confidence. Those in charge of these lessons should teach you that there are many myths that you should not worry about.
When you are not completely unaware of the experience you will live, there is less chance that you will be distressed by it.
3.- Pain management
In the maternity classes you will have a detailed approach to the description of what you will feel in childbirth. They should also explain alternatives to alleviate them and the consequences that each one has on your body and that of the baby. Among them you will find epidural blocks, pain relievers and narcotics.
4.- The role of the companion during childbirth
It is recommended that the couple also attend these lessons so that they receive the relevant instructions. If someone is going to accompany you during this process, they need to know how to support you effectively. A person who understands what is happening will act more assertively.
5.- Possible complications
One of the goals of maternity classes is to inform you of the most common complications. They will also instruct you about medical interventions to counteract these difficulties.
6.- The place where you will give birth
In many maternity preparation courses they take you to the hospital facilities. This is so that you know that the place where they will help you receive your baby is a safe place and with all the necessary equipment.
7.- Baby care
Part of the curriculum for some of the classes includes general aspects of newborn care. They will often tell you what to ask your pediatrician or how to go about the breastfeeding process.
You and your partner can also learn how to change diapers and bathe your baby for the first few days.
8.- The functioning of your body
One of the most important lessons you can learn in these classes is how your body works. The instructor will explain the changes your body experiences during these months and how to assume them.
In addition, they will talk to you about the healthy lifestyle that you need to lead from the moment of conception.
What should your maternity course include?
- Fetal development.
- Warning signs during pregnancy.
- What do you need in your home to receive the baby.
- How to prepare for the baby’s arrival.
- Signs of labor.
- When to go to the hospital.
- What sensations will you have during delivery?
- Breathing techniques and pain relief.
- How to cope with difficult labor.
- Cesarean section and natural childbirth.
- Basic child care.
Now that you know what to expect from your classes, you can decide whether or not you want to take them. The more care and information you have about pregnancy and childbirth, the less your fears will be. Choose the best program for you and involve your family in this process.
