The 10 Best Online Birthing Classes - Updated for 2024

IN THIS GUIDE:
Types of classes
What is covered
Selecting a class
What they cost

What is Covered in Birthing Classes?

Childbirth classes and prenatal-education are designed to teach you techniques that will help you connect with your body’s natural capacity for childbirth.

Here are five of the key topics covered in birthing classes:

1. The Physiology of Late Pregnancy

   You’ll learn how your body is naturally preparing for the experience of giving birth to new life and how to identify the signs of labor. 

2. Breathing Techniques & Coping With Pain

   Discover relaxation and breathing techniques, visualization strategies to help you cope with contractions and labor, and options for medication to help ease the pain of childbirth.

3. The Stages of Labor

   Childbirth classes will take you through the stages of labor and what to expect from each phase of the process, as well as how to understand the messages your body is sending you.

   You will learn the goals of each stage of labor, approximately how long each stage will last, and how you can best support the process of each stage.

   Your partner or support team will also learn how to best support you during each stage.

4. Common Interventions

   You’ll learn how various interventions such as inductions, IV pain medication, epidurals, fetal monitoring, , catheterization, episiotomy, and cesarean surgery can influence the course of labor and how to adapt.

5. Coping With Fear and Anxiety

   Experiencing fear and anxiety related to labor is common and normal for expectant parents, and childbirth classes can help you acknowledge and address them in a safe environment. Exploring prenatally how your fears might manifest and effect labor, and determining potential ways to cope with these fears, can help significantly during the birthing process. 

When to Take Birthing Classes?

We recommend taking birthing classes during the third trimester of the later part of the second trimester.

However, if you feel unsure about the process and you want more time to practice techniques and build up your confidence prior to giving birth, you can absolutely choose to take classes earlier during your pregnancy.

It can also be helpful to use the first trimester to research the various types of prenatal education and childbirth classes available so you can make a decision about the right kind of classes for you. So the decision about when to start birthing classes really depends on you. 

What are the Types of Birthing Classes?

In addition to the many types of birthing classes to consider, there are also many more options to help you transition smoothly into the postpartum months. We’ve created the following list of postpartum newborn care and birthing classes.

1) HypnoBirthing Classes

The Hypno Birthing technique allows birthing people to experience childbirth in a calm, peaceful environment with minimized pain.

Hypno Birthing classes consider both the physical and psychological well being of the birthing person, their birthing partner, and their child. HypnoBirthing techniques work equally well in a hospital, a birth center, or a home.

Learn Hypno Birthing Techniques like meditation and positive affirmations with step-by-step instructions in our Comprehensive Guide to the Hypno Birthing Technique.

2) Breastfeeding Classes

Breastfeeding is like pregnancy in the sense that everyone has their own unique experience. Some people find it easy and intuitive, while others face challenges and frustrations. So why is breastfeeding so hard for some new parents and easy for others?

Breastfeeding classes teach that many of the common breastfeeding challenges are out of your control. Thankfully, understanding some breastfeeding basics can help you feel more comfortable, alleviate any worries you may have, and make the process of feeding your baby easier and more enjoyable.

Learn about how breastfeeding works and all of its benefits in our Guide to Breastfeeding.

3) Birthing From Within Classes

Birthing From Within classes are a comprehensive approach to childbirth preparation that turns childbirth into a transformative journey of growth and self-discovery.

Birthing From Within means leaning into and embracing the physical, mental, and emotional process of bringing new life into the world. Some of this work involves active preparation and planning and some of it simply means getting in touch with your body’s natural abilities and instincts.

Learn how Birthing From Within encourage you to embrace your unique and uncharted birthing journey for whatever it will be in our Guide to Birthing From Within.

4) Sleep Training Classes

Sleep training is the process of teaching your little one to fall asleep and stay asleep without your help. That means you put your baby down for sleep while they’re fully awake. No need for rocking, cuddling, swaying, singing, or nursing.

The goal is to help regulate your baby’s sleep cycle. Sleep training isn’t always needed if your baby already sleeps well. But for babies who are struggling, sleep training is sometimes not just an option, but a necessity.

Sleep training classes teach you to teach your baby to sleep through the night so you can, too. Learn about sleep training baby support, advice, resources, & answers to your questions in our Guide to Sleep Training Classes.

5) Bradley Method Classes

The Bradley Method, also known as "husband-coached childbirth," emphasizes the role of the partner in the birthing process. The classes focus on relaxation techniques, nutrition, and exercise during pregnancy, as well as the stages of labor and delivery.

6) The Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique is a method of movement awareness that can be beneficial in preparing for pregnancy, childbirth, and parenthood. By emphasizing freedom of movement, balance, support, and coordination, this technique can help you physically prepare for the demands of pregnancy and childbirth.

For those who enjoy yoga, prenatal yoga classes can also be a great option. The breathing, stretching, and meditation techniques taught in various types of yoga are often found to be helpful during pregnancy and childbirth. You can consider speaking with a local yoga instructor or checking with a hospital, birth center, or adult education facility for classes.

7) Online Birthing Classes

If attending an in-person class isn't feasible for you, online childbirth classes are a great option. They offer the same comprehensive information as in-person classes, but you can complete them from the comfort of your own home and at your own pace.

Where Can I Find Childbirth Classes Near Me?

You can sign up for childbirth classes at a hospital or birthing center in your area. Many hospitals offer classes that are taught by experienced nurses or midwives. Birthing centers may offer classes that focus on unmedicated childbirth techniques.

If attending an in-person class isn't feasible for you, there are many online childbirth classes available that are featured at the beginning of this guide.

Childbirth classes are an excellent way to prepare for the birth of your baby. They offer a wealth of information and resources to help you feel confident and empowered as you approach childbirth. With the many different types of classes available, you're sure to find one that aligns with your needs and preferences. So why not sign up today and start your journey to parenthood with confidence?

• The Best Local Birthing Classes in NYC

What You'll Learn in Prenatal Classes

If you're considering taking a prenatal class, you may be wondering what topics the class will cover. The good news is that most childbirth classes are comprehensive and cover a range of important topics.

Here is what you can expect to learn in Prenatal Classes:

1. The Signs of Labor

   Prenatal classes will teach you how to recognize the signs of labor, including early labor signs like contractions and cervical dilation. You'll learn what to do when you think you're in labor, when to call your healthcare provider, and how to time your contractions.

2. The Stages of Labor and Delivery

   Prenatal classes typically cover the three stages of labor and delivery, including what happens during each stage, how long it might take, and what you can do to stay comfortable and relaxed.

3. Delivery Methods

   You'll learn about the different delivery methods, including vaginal birth and cesarean section, and the risks and benefits of each.

4. Pain Management Techniques for Labor

   Prenatal classes cover a range of pain management techniques, including non-medicated approaches like breathing and relaxation techniques, as well as medicated options like epidurals.

5. Support from Your Partner

   Prenatal classes will teach your partner how to support you during labor and delivery, including massage techniques and how to help you stay calm and relaxed.

6. Relaxation Techniques

   You'll learn various techniques to help you relax and cope with the pain during labor.

7. Childbirth Complications

   Most prenatal classes cover common childbirth complications like slow labor and perineal tears, as well as how medical professionals may handle them.

8. Breastfeeding and Newborn Care

   While some classes may offer separate sessions for breastfeeding and newborn care, many cover the basics of breastfeeding and newborn care.

Prenatal classes cover a range of topics that are designed to prepare expectant parents for labor, delivery, and postpartum care. While the approach may vary depending on the type of class, the common goal is to provide you with the knowledge, skills, and resources you need to make informed decisions and ease your fears about childbirth.

With so much valuable information and the opportunity to connect with other parents-to-be, prenatal classes are a wise investment for any expectant parent.

When Should You Take an In-Person Childbirth Class?

Childbirth classes are usually recommended for expectant parents during their third trimester. This ensures that the information you learn is fresh in your mind when it's time to give birth. However, some people prefer to start earlier, especially if they want to take multiple classes or if their schedule is tight.

The duration of childbirth classes can vary depending on the program you choose. You can opt for a one-day intensive workshop or weekly sessions that run for several months.

Taking a childbirth class in your second trimester has its advantages, too. Some classes cover how to choose a maternity and labor provider, which is crucial to do early on in your pregnancy. This gives you time to make any necessary changes or switch providers altogether. However, it's generally better to wait until your third trimester to take a breastfeeding class since that's when you'll be closer to nursing your baby.

It's important to note that in-person, hospital childbirth classes often fill up quickly, so it's a good idea to register early. Ideally, you should finish your classes before your due date, or even earlier, in case your baby arrives sooner than expected.

Where Can I Get Help Selecting the Right Birth Class?

Your ob-gyn or midwife may be able to recommend a local birth class or a selection of independent instructors. Additionally, you can check with the hospital or birth center where you plan to give birth or ask friends who have recently had babies for their recommendations.

If you prefer to take a birth class with an independent instructor or organization, you can search for options online. The International Childbirth Education Association (ICEA) certifies many childbirth educators, and their website is a great place to start your search. However, it's important to note that the content of these classes can vary significantly depending on the instructor, so it's important to ask what topics will be covered.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a childbirth class that aligns with your birthing philosophy and provides you with the knowledge and skills you need to make informed decisions about your birth experience.

How Much Do Birthing Classes Cost?

The cost of birthing classes varies depending on the type of class and if you take the class in-person where you live or online.

Hospital classes are typically the most affordable option, with costs often priced under $100 for a class.

If you're interested in a more specialized class or expert-led instruction, you should expect to pay more. High quality birthing classes cost around $150-300 with prices going as high as $500 per class for private instruction.

It's worth noting that some health insurance companies cover the cost of childbirth classes, but requirements vary. Your insurer may require the class to be taught by a certified childbirth educator or a lactation consultant, and you may need to pay for the class upfront and then submit a claim for reimbursement. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to find out if they cover childbirth classes and what their specific requirements are.

Frequently Asked Questions