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| | | Most hospitals, clinics and baby centers offer classes taught by trained or certified childbirth instructors. Most courses consist of one class over a period of 4 to 8 weeks but intensive courses can be completed in one or two days. There are two main methods of childbirth instruction. With Lamaze, expectant mothers are prepared psychologically and physically to give birth preferably without the use of drugs. The Bradley Method is similar to Lamaze, but emphasizes diet and exercise includes deep breathing techniques to manage pain, and involves the husband or partner as an integral participant in the birth process. | | |
| Typical costs: | - Costs for birthing or Lamaze classes vary by hospital, clinic or baby center, as well as by region or state. Classes in areas with higher costs of living typically charge more than classes in lower-cost areas.
- The national average cost is $110. Classes are usually offered in two- to four-hour sessions over several days, although many facilities also offer one-day intensive sessions of 6-8 hours.
- A few state hospitals, such as North Kansas City Hospital and Liberty Hospital in Kansas offer classes at no cost.
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| What should be included: | - According to BabyCenter.com, the typical Lamaze class consists of at least 12 hours of instruction and includes no more than 12 couples.
- Instruction should include techniques for coping with pain, including massage, walking, position changes, and hydrotherapy.
- Classes should also include information on epidurals, potential complications and medical intervention techniques.
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| Discounts: | - Many places that offer birthing or Lamaze classes also offer other child-related courses such as breastfeeding, how to handle post-partum depressions or baby signing. These may also offer 5-10% discounts to parents who sign-up for multiple classes.
- Hospitals may offer discounts to patients who are planning to deliver their babies at the facility.
- A few insurance carriers, such as Blue Cross/Blue Shield Advantage and Blue Care HMO, may cover part of the class costs.
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| Shopping for lamaze classes: | |
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. For medical decisions, always consult your physician for the right course for your infant or child.
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Article updated November 2007 |
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