By: Ashley Anderson, Simply Birth SD

Here’s why childbirth education classes are worth your time.

1. Education eliminates fear.

Especially if this is your first baby, there are a lot of unknowns about giving birth. What will contractions feel like? How will I know I’m in labor? During a childbirth class, you’ll not only learn how the body works during each stage of labor, but also how to work with your body during each stage. Reducing fear in labor will reduce tension, which in turn reduces pain.

2. You’ll learn pain management techniques.

Speaking of pain, is it really possible to reduce pain during childbirth? The answer is YES!! Learning and practicing some very simple techniques like relaxation, abdominal breathing and different laboring positions can all help reduce the amount of pain you experience during labor.

3. Classes help prepare your partner for labor.

Your partner, most likely the father of your child, will be part of this life changing event. Taking a childbirth class together will give him the tools he needs to not only support you through labor, but also to be an advocate for you in your birthing space. It’s not just the birth of a baby, but the birth of a family!

4.  An empowered birth leads to empowered parenting.

Many people view labor and birth as something to “just get through.” But it was meant to be so much more! Yes, it’s painful, but many of life’s greatest achievements come through moments of pain. Going into labor prepared and educated will give you the confidence you need to make the BEST choices for you and your family, even beyond labor.

And when considering a childbirth class, don’t forget to look outside of the hospital. The independent classes are often more comprehensive and will focus on natural birthing techniques. There are many independent options right here in the Sioux Empire to fully prepare you to have the kind of birth that you’ll want to remember.