Which Childbirth Education Model is Right for You? Comparing the Pros and Cons of Popular Options
- Katherine Frey
- Dec 19, 2024
- 2 min read
Are you an expectant parent looking to learn about pregnancy and childbirth? With so many childbirth education courses available, you might wonder how to choose the right one and whether it truly makes a difference. Do all childbirth education classes cover the same topics?
As a nurse with 10+ years of experience in the women's health world, I am here to tell you that not all childbirth education courses are the same, nor do they all cover the same information. A simple breakdown of classes is as follows: online classes, group/hospital classes, and personalized, 1:1 classes. See the breakdown below for a quick comparison of the 3.
Online Classes:
Pros
Easy to purchase with immediate access to pre-recorded information
Complete on your own time, at a pace that is comfortable to you
Access to modules throughout pregnancy and potentially postpartum
Cons
Limited interaction with educators
Education topics are limited to pre-selected material deemed most important by the educator
No hands on practice with educator guidance
Price varies greatly
Group/Hospital classes
Pros
Cheap and mostly covered by insurance
Interaction and connection with educators and peers
Hands on practice with educator guidance
Cons
Education topics are limited to pre-selected material deemed most important by the educator and/or hospital
Limited ability to discuss alternative methods of delivery and/or labor due to class size and time constraints
Structured to teach about hospital protocols/what to expect
Classes often span multiple weeks or require an all-day commitment, and may not provide meals
Personalized, 1:1 classes
Pros
Classes are created with you and for you, to meet you where you are in your pregnancy and birth journey
Personal connection with the educators and ability to ask questions in a judgement free atmosphere
Class times that are held in your home or online at your convenience
Hands on practice with educator guidance
Ability to adjust learning objectives as you go through class, without missing important information
Cons
No peer interaction
Each class is tailored for the individual, so material may not apply to all pregnancies in the future
Price is higher due to personalization and time investment
At BirthPrint, we combine the best aspects of all these options to offer packages tailored to your needs. We don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. We understand that each individual may have different goals that vary widely. We are here to help you both experience an empowered journey through this exciting, and sometimes anxiety-inducing, time.
Use the pros and cons lists above to help make the best decision for you and your family. If you have any questions, book a free BirthPrint Consultation. We will discuss your goals, review our offerings, and help point you in the direction that best suits your pregnancy and birth needs.
Keep it messy, loud, and real <3
Kati
Kommentarer