Childbirth classes are a very effective resource when preparing physically and mentally for the moment of giving birth. Above all, if it is your first pregnancy, it is logical that you are restless and do not know what labor and its phases consist of. Even if you have previously given birth, taking advantage of these courses offered by Social Security will help you control the anxiety caused by childbirth and face the prenatal period with greater calm and security.
The participation of parents in these courses is crucial, since they will also be taught the ideal tools to alleviate the discomfort that pregnancy causes women through, for example, massages, and to accompany them emotionally during the process. The 28th week of pregnancy is a good time to follow the classes continuously, but it is advisable to attend a session beforehand since, from then on, the contents will focus on childbirth.
Childbirth preparation courses have a double function because in addition to practicing the exercises related to childbirth, meeting other women in the same context will help mothers to share their emotional experiences related to pregnancy.
Prenatal gymnastics contributes to keeping the mother in good physical shape and, therefore, to strengthening the health of the baby. Unless your pregnancy is at risk and you are prevented by medical prescription, you can exercise regularly until the day of delivery. The midwives will also teach you postural measures to mitigate the fatigue of this stage.
Relaxation and breathing exercises are one of the fundamental axes of childbirth preparation classes. Pregnant women apply dynamics that simulate contractions and are explained how they have to deal with them. For example, they are taught how to push and control their breathing during the dilation and expulsion phases to alleviate pain.
The key theoretical concepts associated with pregnancy are also featured in these sessions. Mothers should know what pharmacological resources are available to them if they want an analgesic during labor. Likewise, the midwives will inform them about the essential care of the baby during the postpartum period, such as cleaning meconium or treating the umbilical area, and will even answer any questions about the breastfeeding period.
