Early pregnancy (antenatal) classes are becoming significantly popular as more and more people now realise their importance in a highly disruptive era influenced by technology and massive lifestyle transitions. These classes can be beneficial for expecting parents, as they provide them with not only valuable information about their baby’s development and the early weeks of pregnancy but also a host of other benefits. Expectant mothers who attend these classes are better informed about what they can expect, what are the changes one goes through and how to manage them effectively. These classes talk about nutrition, right kind of exercise regime for a healthy baby and equally healthy mother, how to build a positive bond with your baby in your womb and various other imperative aspects of pregnancy and childbirth.
Need for antenatal classes
Many expectant parents may not have their first prenatal appointment until the first trimester, which can leave them in the dark about important topics. Antenatal pregnancy classes can help address these topics earlier in pregnancy, making the pregnancy more real and exciting. Learning about early pregnancy can also involve your partner in the process, making it easier to ask questions that might seem unsuitable to your doctor. The choices you make during this time, such as eating, drinking, and participating in activities, can have a big impact on your growing baby. Taking an antenatal pregnancy class provides evidence-based information that you need to support your baby’s growth early on. From eating right to managing your labor pain and positions during labor, these classes talk about breastfeeding and also taking postpartum and baby care. Research shows that well-informed women often make the right pregnancy-related decisions and are also at a lower risk of opting for C-section delivery.
Receptivity to change
Early pregnancy classes help you discover how your body will change during this time, from breast tenderness and skin changes to heartburn and constipation. It’s important to take care of your body and skin from early on, which can even help prevent future stretch marks. Besides, it helps them feel more connected to their babies and motivates them to take proactive steps that benefit both the mother and the baby inside her womb.
Antenatal classes also prepare expectant parents for the emotional changes they experience during early pregnancy. Due to changes in hormones, one may feel more tired, forgetful, or not like her “normal” self. An early pregnancy class is a wonderful way to learn emotional coping techniques to use during pregnancy, labour, and early parenthood.
Consciousness about Nutrition
Healthy eating is crucial during pregnancy, but expecting parents often struggle with finding a balance between meals and their busy schedules. It is important to understand the necessary nutrients for both the mother and her baby. Knowing the extra calories needed each day and planning healthy meals early on can help make beneficial changes.
What are the ideal sources of getting folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D, choline, omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, vitamin C, and other important nutrients, and what is the most appropriate way of consuming them can be understood clearly after taking early pregnancy sessions by the subject matter expert.
Physical stimuli
Being physically active during pregnancy has multiple benefits for both the mother and baby. Regular moderate activity can help adapt to the growing baby’s demands, boost mood, and provide relief from morning sickness symptoms. It may also decrease the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, thyroid, hypertension and any other complications . Doing pelvic floor exercises and good prenatal yoga can increase the chances of smooth vaginal delivery. In summary, early pregnancy classes can provide valuable insights and provide a starting point for better understanding and support during pregnancy. Besides, it also provides an opportunity to connect with other expecting parents who can provide support and resources to help navigate the challenges of pregnancy and birth. By learning about these topics, expecting parents can ensure a healthier pregnancy and a positive birth experience. As soon as woman gets pregnant, she is bombarded with excessive don’ts and do’s. These classes burst all the myths and provide science- based and factual information to the to-be-mothers.
The author is the Founder of Mom’s Preg-Ladder.