This is a unique moment, but many questions, insecurities, and uncertainties arise and take over first-time moms, and of course, experienced moms as well, after all, every pregnancy is different. At this time, it’s important to seek resources to get questions answered and to learn, such as the prenatal course and also childbirth preparation classes. These services are offered to help with concerns and doubts that arise during pregnancy, such as how to prepare for childbirth, postpartum, breastfeeding, and caring for the newborn, which are very common for first-time moms.

Course Objective

The Prenatal Course aims to reassure expectant mothers, since during this period there are various changes in a woman’s body both hormonally and emotionally, a true mix of sensations and how to deal with this new phase of life. Another positive aspect are the childbirth preparation classes; after reaching thirty weeks of pregnancy, the public health system offers these classes free of charge, but if you prefer, there are private clinics as well.

The Importance of the Prenatal Course in the Expectant Mother’s Life

During the prenatal course, the expectant mother will receive full support from both nursing staff and her doctor from her first appointment through the nine months of pregnancy. The prenatal course monitors the health of the pregnant woman and her fetus. At the first appointment, the doctor will carry out an interview with the expectant mother to check for possible diseases and assess her health, as well as perform a physical exam and request blood tests. Remember that it is extremely important for future moms to speak up about all their doubts and ask health professionals for information that will help you during this phase. How to eat healthily, if you have a habit of doing any kind of exercise, which types are most recommended, medications you should take, and which ones you should avoid during this period. During the prenatal course, you will receive information that will help avoid risks for your pregnancy and help you stay alert to any possible changes or unusual signs. This covers everything from increased sleepiness, behavioral changes such as mood, sadness, happiness, swelling, skin discoloration, and every pregnant woman’s nightmare—nausea. There are cases that require more intensive medical intervention and even hospitalization. This is one of the reasons for the need for a prenatal course, so you are fully aware and supported from the beginning to the end of your pregnancy, including guidance on signs of labor.

Childbirth Preparation Classes

Another service that will help a lot is the childbirth preparation classes, which aim to help couples clarify doubts about childbirth, baby care, especially how to give the first bath, since both the future mom and dad often feel extremely insecure thinking about this moment. They will also receive guidance about breastfeeding and even diaper changing. Childbirth preparation classes are not mandatory, but parents who can attend will gain excellent information about pregnancy, learning techniques that will help ensure the health of both mom and baby.

Information Learned in Preparation Classes

Information you will receive in childbirth preparation classes: How to proceed during labor: from the first contractions on, you’ll be guided on how your body works at this moment and provided with emotional support to cope with labor pain. Father’s participation: The importance of dads joining childbirth classes will also be discussed. This will help expectant mothers feel less anxious and insecure and prepare future fathers to watch the delivery if they choose to. Breathing exercises: Another very important aspect is breathing exercises, relaxation, massage, and strengthening the pelvic area. These are techniques that help at the moment the baby is born. Baby’s first bath: Bathing in theory and practice—how to bathe the baby for the first time, which products to use, and which to avoid. For example, many doctors recommend not using talcum powder, as it contains small particles that can be inhaled, harming your baby’s respiratory tract and lungs, making breathing more difficult. Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is extremely important and helps form a bond between mother and baby, but some moms have great difficulty breastfeeding, experience pain, wonder if their milk is enough to nourish their baby, and some even end up offering a bottle to supplement their child’s feeding. Diaper changing: Information will include the importance of not leaving your baby unattended during a diaper change to prevent possible falls, as well as the right position for putting on the diaper. Other topics, such as using diaper rash creams, baby wipes, and your baby’s hygiene, will also be covered in the childbirth preparation classes.

Other Benefits of Preparation Classes

Another benefit of childbirth preparation classes is that they are held in groups—ideally with both parents attending—so couples can exchange ideas, share each couple’s experiences, and talk about their doubts and fears. This always helps encourage and reassure expectant mothers as they await their baby’s arrival. Both the prenatal course and the childbirth preparation classes are extremely important for couples, as you will receive crucial information that will help throughout pregnancy, during delivery, and with caring for your baby. Also see: Things Every New Mom Should Know Photo: Prefeitura de Belo Horizonte