Choosing a Childbirth Class

Getting Started

You've read pregnancy books. You know the breakdown of what to expect during the rest of your nine months. But actually giving birth is another story -- one that's not easy to learn about by simply reading.

You probably have many questions: What do Braxton Hicks contractions feel like? Will the hospital staff offer anesthesia or expect you to ask for it? What should you be doing in those hours between calling the doctor and pushing the baby out?

Finally, have you ever watched a video of someone giving birth? Probably not, if you're like most first-time expectant parents. And that's why childbirth classes have become as much a part of pregnancy as baby showers and heartburn.