I’m already planning on having epidural anesthesia – why would I need classes?
Epidural anesthesia is just one of many pain relief options, and although pain relief discussion and practice takes up a good part of class time, childbirth preparation encompasses much more than just the physical aspect of pain. (See What will I learn in a Childbirth Education Class?). In total, a childbirth preparation class helps you prepare mentally, physically and emotionally for what is a very physical, emotion-filled life change. It makes sense to gather as much information and prepare for birth much the same way you would prepare for any other very physical event, such as a marathon, or a life-changing event such as marriage. In addition, there may be circumstances that require you to wait before receiving an epidural, and the techniques and strategies learned in class will help you manage the pain until the epidural can be placed. You will also learn about the procedure itself as well as the medical interventions that go hand-in-hand with receiving an epidural. Learning about
