What is covered in Lamaze classes?
Lamaze classes focus on much more than just breathing. Most Lamaze teachers concentrate class time on normal labor, birth, and on the many choices that expectant parents have today regarding their childbirth experience. Pregnant women and their partners practice various positions that will facilitate the normal progress of labor and birth. Partners and other support persons learn massage techniques to ease the pain of labor and enhance relaxation. Comfort measures such as hydrotherapy, the use of heat and cold, and pressure are discussed and- when possible-practiced. Much time is spent on relaxation skills, including breathing strategies and skills that can be used throughout life in times of stress. Communication skills are practiced between the pregnant woman and her partner, and in preparation for communicating with the other members of the health care team. Class members discuss what they would like for the childbirth experience and what they can do to help make that experience hap
