birthing classes?

I was just wondering from all your experiences if I should take birthing classes.  I'm 28 weeks and haven't signed up for any yet.  I didn't know how neccesary these are.  One problem is my husband has a different scedual every week so he wouldn't always be able to go with me.  I don't have anyone else to bring.  Can I go alone?

[JTSHB]

I never took any for #1 preg and don't plan on any this time around.  I went by my g/f's advice as they took the classes when preg and said when it came time to have the baby, IT ALL WENT OUT THE WINDOW!!!

jt

[lovethebops]

You can join a class if you'd like. The most I got out of it was knowing a couple of other ladies who had babies around the same time as me, and we still keep in touch and compared notes after the birth. It was nice to have that connection w/ other women who were pregnant. We watched video's of birth and it was a lot of fun, our instructor was great. I took some things away from the class, and it helped me in early labor. It also helped knowing all the medical terms and pain relief options, that I otherwise would not have known. I had a very natural labor and birth, with absolutely no pain relief at all (believe me I would of if I could, that is a whole other story), and That is the kind of class I took, natural birth...based on the book by Pam England, called Birthing from Within. I recommend it just for the new friends you could make.

[mommabean]

I'm sure you could go alone and relay info and notes to DH. If your going natural, I'd say take the classes, but it's not neccesary. Think of all of the women who gave birth before those classes became popular! I didn't take them and did fine, however I think my DH could have used a little coaching:) Plus extra prepraration never hurts. It's really up to you and what you feel comfortable with. They also make videos for at home classes which may be the best bet for you.

[anxiousmomtobe?]

I took classes with my dd (16) and my ds (3.5).  I found them helpful and informative.  Especially since they gave the latest info on birthing techniques, medical interventions and new born care.

I am not taking this time.  

And I would take a trusted friend along with you to take notes and support you.  I took my dh, dd and our doula.

[lynne1276]

Thanks ladies for your responses.  I think I'll look into them.  I know that alot of people say they are good if you are planning on going natural.  I'm planning on biggie sizing my epidural!!!!!   My husband has been through this before, I haven't.  He thinks its a waste of time thats why I wanted your opinions.

[Crritter]

I took the classes with my first baby and found it great for my husband.  He really needed to hear what was going to happen as he did not think it would be too hard and did not think I was as uncomfortable as I was.  Really opened his eyes and it was nice to meet the labor and delivery nurses and see all of the things they use.  I would recommend it mainly for your husband's benefit, if you can't do it, they will help you in labor and it doesn't really make much difference.