Although many women have had multiple babies, as first time parents, or maybe even second time parents, we are extremely nervous. There is nothing like education to alleviate fear. Fear is typically the absence of knowledge and once one understands something, fear will go away. Prenatal care and childbirth preparation should be on the top of your list to help you alleviate that fear. As preparation for this experience, education is first needed. You can achieve this through the Calgary Childbirth Education Association and by having a doula by your side. Being emotionally prepared may not be something that you can learn except through experience. Support and knowledge is empowering.
One of the most common sources for childbirth education can be from books. It is important to seek out prenatal classes as well. You will form strong bonds with the new mothers-to-be in your group and will gain strength from them and their stories. Don’t forget to always remember that despite the education that you will need during childbirth, it should be one of the most wondrous and joyful times of your life. Don’t become overwhelmed with information overload. Surrounding yourself with a strong support team will help relieve the tension and anxiety of birth.
Another part of the childbirth education is thinking about parenting even though the child has not come into your life yet. A good idea is to take a parenting class or talk to other women that are experienced mothers that have gone through the process once before. Reading books and going to online forums can be helpful, especially when you are first starting out on your education quest.
Take the time to learn a little bit about your situation and it will make your child birthing experience much more understandable and possibly much more pleasurable until the baby arrives.
~ Meagan
Thank you, Meagan, for encouraging parents to continue with their learning –from the time of conception and into the early years of their baby’s life.
Raymond Parenting offers a prenatal seminar called Sleep from the Start. In this seminar, I outline how parents can help their newborn learn self-calming strategies early on. This learning enhances attachment, sets up clear feeding routines and helps families get off to the best possible start with their new baby.
Your work is so important, and I am enjoying your blogs.
Kitty Raymond
Thank you Kitty. I to find your services very valuable and hope all parents continue their learning into early childhood and on.
Meagan