Many mothers who are expecting their second child wonder whether they should have another Childbirth Preparation Class should or shouldn't do. If you remember your first prenatal class as being very theoretical and not particularly enjoyable or helpful, you're less likely to see the point in signing up for another one than women who found their class to be important and meaningful Preparation to the Birth how they felt about their first child.
What are the arguments against taking another childbirth preparation class?
Women giving birth for the second time are often told that the birth of their second child will be “easier,” which can lead them to feel that they need less—or even no— childbirth preparation. It’s true that, in most cases, the second birth is shorter and faster than the first. In addition, you’ve already gone through one birth and successfully cared for a baby during the early weeks, so you have a general idea of what to expect.
Another valid reason against taking another childbirth preparation class is the “older” child itself. After all, attending the classes requires a significant time commitment, and the younger the older child is, the harder it will be for the mother to find the time. Bottom line: A theory-heavy childbirth preparation class probably won’t offer the expectant mother much that’s new and will, on top of that, take up valuable time.
What are the benefits of taking another childbirth preparation class?
Memories of the first birth often fade somewhat after just a short time, and it’s certainly beneficial for every woman to get back into the right frame of mind and prepare for her second birth. The better prepared you are, the more you can actively shape the birth experience yourself, and the less you’ll be at the mercy of the birthing process and the discretion of the healthcare providers during labor. In addition to physical preparation, a childbirth class also offers the opportunity to revisit and process less positive memories from the first birth and to alleviate any fears you may have about the second birth.
Does it even make sense to take a childbirth class for your second child?
Even though it’s harder to find time right now, it’s still the right thing to do and important to set aside time for yourself and your unborn child. Women who are pregnant for the second time often feel that this pregnancy is just happening on the side and that the baby in their belly might be getting neglected—even though there’s no need to worry about that. A prenatal class offers the chance to focus entirely on yourself and your new pregnancy and to connect with other women in the same situation.
It’s also important for the partner to come to terms with the new situation he’s about to face and to prepare for it, at least mentally. The second child will reshape the family, and his help at home will be needed more than ever. A childbirth preparation class would therefore certainly be beneficial for him as well.
Even an older child will benefit from a good childbirth preparation class, albeit more indirectly. Mothers who decide to take a new childbirth preparation class are often more balanced and patient with their “big kid”—partly because they’re doing something good for themselves, and partly because the class often addresses the older child and the emotional turmoil they’re experiencing due to the new pregnancy.
Conclusion: Taking a childbirth preparation class for your second child definitely makes sense. Everyone involved will benefit from it, but it’s important to find out about the course content beforehand.
Which childbirth preparation class makes sense for a second child?
In many places, there is a wide selection of childbirth classes. Theory-based childbirth classes will probably bore you, but there’s surely a class that’s right for you. If you’re not sure what to do or how to find a good class, it’s best to ask your doctor or midwife. Many midwives even offer personalized childbirth classes.
Choose a practical course, preferably one that involves your partner at least to some extent! Even if you’ve already done various exercises with your first child—your body needs to be prepared anew for this birth, and there are excellent childbirth preparation classes (often led by midwives and/or physical therapists) that help women use targeted exercises to get into a positive mindset for childbirth and actively shape the birth experience according to their own vision. Having your partner attend the classes is beneficial simply because it allows him to learn how to best support his wife during childbirth.
Some places also offer classes specifically for women who have given birth once or more than once. These classes are tailored to the needs of experienced mothers. Among other topics, they will also cover the older child.
If there are no prenatal classes in your area that suit your needs, it’s a good idea to try alternatives such as belly dancing, yoga, etc. There are often classes designed specifically for pregnant women, and these also offer expectant mothers the opportunity to take time for themselves and their unborn child, to relax, and to mentally prepare for childbirth and the challenges of life as a mother of multiple children.
