9.11 Perinatal Education

Perinatal education helps the pregnant client and her partner learn about pregnancy, birth, and parenting. Classes focus not only on preparing for childbirth but also include information on topics such as anatomy and physiology, when to go to the hospital, how to time a contraction, breathing and relaxation techniques, stages of labor, what happens in the second stage of labor and how to push, medical aspects of birth (medications, induction, and C-section), comfort measures, and postpartum care. Classes often include six hours of education that are broken up across several weeks. The goals of perinatal education are to help parents become knowledgeable consumers who make informed decisions; take an active role in maintaining health during pregnancy and birth; and learn coping techniques to deal with pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting.^[1]

Preconception Classes

Preconception classes are for couples who are thinking about having a baby and are designed to promote healthy pregnancies. Information about nutrition before conception, healthy lifestyle choices, signs of pregnancy, and choosing a health care provider is provided. Preconception classes emphasize early and regular prenatal care and ways to reduce pregnancy risk factors.

Early Pregnancy Classes

Early pregnancy classes focus on the first two trimesters and cover information such as adapting to pregnancy, dealing with early discomforts of pregnancy (such as morning sickness and fatigue), sexuality, and understanding what to expect in the months ahead. Emphasis is placed on obtaining prenatal care and avoiding hazards to the fetus.

Second-trimester classes focus on changes that occur during middle pregnancy, fetal development, and alterations in roles. Information on body mechanics, working during pregnancy, and what to expect during the third trimester is included. Choices regarding childbirth options are provided to help clients become more knowledgeable consumers of health care.

Childbirth Preparation Classes

In childbirth preparation classes, women and their support person(s) learn self-help measures and what to expect during labor and birth. Couples learn coping methods that help them approach childbirth in a positive manner. Teachers do not promise prevention of all pain in labor. The increased confidence and the techniques learned in prepared childbirth classes may help decrease pain perception and increase tolerance of pain during labor.

Classes include information about labor, pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic methods of pain relief, common complications, and a tour of the birth setting. Practicing relaxation, breathing techniques, and coping strategies is part of “labor rehearsals.” Videos may be used to assist women to develop a realistic picture of the birth process.

Many women plan to have epidural anesthesia during labor. However, being knowledgeable of other techniques to help manage discomfort in labor is helpful in the event an epidural cannot safely be administered or the woman chooses not to use an epidural.