When I was pregnant with Lil J, I dragged my reluctant hubby to a prenatal class at our hospital in the early hours of the morning - much to his demise. What did I get out of it? I can't remember a thing. All I remember is downing a cup of coffee and being completely sleep deprived.
I noticed that a lot of couples were into the class. Me and the hubs? Not so much. I don't know if it's appropriate to say it's not our thing because you can never be to prepared for baby right? I mean, it's good to get a sense of what could happen and what to do during labour. But it definitely wasn't our thing.
This time around, even given the fact that I still have not experienced labour, I really don't feel the need to take a pre-natal refresher course. The first class felt like a nightmare that would never end so why would I sign up for another one?! I figure I'm going to take it as it comes and hope for the best. The best meaning a short labour. Too bad it's out of my hands!
So I guess all we can do is hope for the best. And hope that I don't take a crap during labour. I heard that happens a lot. I could care less if my hubby sees it but a bunch of strangers? I guess they are used to it though. Plus I figure I'll be in so much pain I won't have time to care.
Did I mention I'm terrified? And excited but more terrified. Terrified of the unknown, terrified of the pain. Just terrified.
While writing this post, I decided to search "prenatal classes" on Baby Center and I found out that they offer a free online childbirth class with unlimited access! Seriously? I'm so checking this out over the weekend!
Did you take a prenatal class before having your child? Would you recommend it to others? Would you take a refresher course for your second, third or fourth baby?
As an experienced labour delivery RN, I always suggest taking some kind of prenatal education before having your baby. The thing is, the class isn't just for you. It is for whoever is going to be your support person. They need to know what is norma, because there are huge ranges,l and what to expect and how to help you the best that they can.
ReplyDeleteI love it when my patient and her partner will stay calm and in control and say something like, 'it's okay..remember they said this was normal'.
Check out Baby Prep for classes, if you do decide to go that route. I personally recommend her classes. She is a phenomenal teacher!
http://www.babyprep.ca/