Importance of Prenatal Classes

Knowing what to expect can help both parents feel more confident and less stressed.

Prenatal classes, also known as childbirth classes, are designed to help pregnant women and their partners prepare for the various stages of pregnancy, including labor, birth and postpartum. Hilary Simpson, RN, RNC-OB, Maternal Child Nurse Educator, Sierra Medical Center, an extension of Northern Nevada Medical Center, explains how prenatal classes help reduce anxiety surrounding the birthing and postpartum process, and increase confidence in both the expectant parents as they prepare for birth.

Why are prenatal classes important?

Labor and delivery are complex processes that are experienced differently by every person. Therefore, it is important to be well-informed of the different options and strategies available. Parents will learn what questions to ask and what information they might need when it comes time for labor and delivery. This will help parents to take charge of their care and advocate for what might work best for them during the process.

Are prenatal classes only valuable if you take them prior to your baby arriving?

There are some classes that should be taken prior to your baby arriving, as they will cover the labor and delivery process. These classes include topics about movement and positioning during labor, when to know if you should go the hospital, how to manage pain during labor, and more. You should consider taking this class once you are in your second trimester.

There are other classes that educate parents about caring for a newborn, breastfeeding, infant CPR, and more. Educators also highly recommend that parents participate in an infant CPR course prior to birth.

What type of prenatal classes are available at Sierra Medical Center?

Sierra Medical Center offers free prenatal classes for expectant parents in the community. Class topics include:

• Breastfeeding
• Coping with Labor
• Friends and Family Infant CPR
• Going to the Hospital: When to Go & What to Expect
• Movement and Positioning in Pregnancy
• Newborn Care
• Postpartum Expectations & Planning
• Preparing for Delivering a Baby

Learn more about each class and RSVP for an upcoming session