Third Trimester
As your due date approaches, prenatal classes are a great way to prepare for the birth – and break through your fears. Many women take their partners with them.
Most expectant mothers eagerly await their baby’s birth but dread labour and delivery. Why? Fear of pain is a big reason. Birthing classes can help you work through these fears in a positive way.
Learn how to handle pain
There will be pain with labour. But if you understand why – and how normal it is – you may be able to manage it better. Certain techniques you may learn in antenatal classes, such as massage or the use of a TENS machine, may also block pain sensations from reaching the brain. There are many pain relief options and you should discuss them all with your treating doctor. It’s a good idea to have a rough birthing plan together so that when you go into labour you can concentrate on the job at hand.
Find a class
Your healthcare practitioner may direct you to local classes. Check the credentials of the presenter so you know you’re getting good advice. Book in early to make sure you get a place – don’t leave it until your third trimester of pregnancy.
Build your confidence
One of the aims of prepared childbirth is to teach you that you can give birth successfully even though you’ve never done it before. If you feel wobbly, breathing and relaxation techniques you may learn during your third trimester at your antenatal class can help you break the cycle of fear, tension and pain.
Involve your partner
Your partner can play an important role in providing you with physical and emotional support. Including them in all the doctors appointments and birthing classes will mean they too are more prepared when the time comes.
What kind of class should you do?
Any of the following classes may help you get up to speed with childbirth and parenting:
· birth and labour classes
· prenatal care
· breastfeeding
· parenting skills
Check with your hospital, they often run these classes you can attend.
Related articles
3 Fun family games
3 funny games to do with family
3 mins to read
First Trimester
You’re in your first trimester! At your first visit, your doctor will take your history and perform first trimester screenings and tests. Here’s what you can expect.
2 mins to read
Second Trimester
Throughout your second trimester, you’ll continue to visit your doctor about once a month - as long as your pregnancy progresses as suggested by your doctor.
2 mins to read
Your baby proofing action plan
Protect your baby with effective baby proofing strategies. Discover essential tips to make your home safer as your little one begins to explore and grow.
6 mins to read
How To Help Baby Sleep Better
Learn the importance of baby sleep for growth and development. Discover red flags in your baby's sleep patterns and ensure they get the rest they need.
5 mins to read
How to emotionally prepare for parenthood before becoming a mom
Discover how to emotionally prepare for parenthood, recognize red flags, and manage challenges to ensure a smoother transition into motherhood.
5 mins to read
How to handle toddler sleep problems
Learn how to address toddler sleep problems with expert tips, identify red flags, and promote healthy sleep habits for your little one's well-being.
5 mins to read
Understanding why babies cry
Explore helpful techniques to calm your crying baby, from addressing basic needs to create a peaceful environment, fostering comfort and connection.
5 mins to read
Morning Sickness
Amid your joy about your pregnancy, you may experience morning sickness – nausea with or without vomiting, that can occur any time of the day or night.
3 mins to read
Pregnancy concerns and diet solutions
-
4 mins to read
Your toddler, the independent eater
-
2 mins to read
Week 04
Almost one month already! There are lots of things happening inside you this week.
3 mins to read
Week 12
You’re coming to the end of your first trimester. Congratulations! Read more about this week.
2 mins to read
Week 20
There’s so much going on in your belly this week that you may want to take a little nap after reading about it! Read more about this week.
3 mins to read
Week 28
Your little one is around 38 cm long from crown to toe and already weights about 1.2 kilos, a third of her birth weight. Her feet measure around 5½ cm – yes, they are tiny!
2 mins to read
Week 36
From now until she makes her grand entrance, your baby will continue to put on about a half a pound per week, or around 220 g. She is already 47 cm long and weighs 2.7 kg!
3 mins to read
Your checklist of antenatal testing questions
Baby health checks start before they’re even born. Here are some questions you may want to ask your healthcare provider about antenatal testing.
1 min to read
Am I ready to give birth? Signs of labor checklist
Learn to identify the first signs of labor and understand the stages of childbirth. Get practical recommendations for a smoother labor experience.
5 mins to read
Baby’s First Foods: Everything You Need to Know
Your baby’s first foods are important to start his healthy nutrition habits, click here to read more about it.
4 mins to read
