Classes, classes, so many classes to take!

Taking a birthing class seems obvious enough. But once I started looking into it, I discovered that there are so many options! Which one to take? Which one is better? Ack!

Our OB-GYN office recommends taking a one-day, intensive Childbirth Education class with a certified nurse, which includes a tour of the birthing center at Sibley Memorial Hospital, where we'll deliver. The class we would take would run from 9:20 to 2:30 p.m. on July 12. ($180) Update: Signing up for this one!

Another option would be taking a five-day weekday Preparing for Labor and Birth class at Sibley. ($190)

Speaking of Sibley, they have a whole host of class options that you could consider, including a Maternity Tour (free), Babycare Skills ($70) and Preparing to Breastfeed ($65).

Then there is the L'Amazing Baby: Childbirth Preparation with a Jewish Twist class offered at the Jewish Community Center down the street from us, which meets two Sundays (June 14 & 21) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This would be the Lamaze method, I assume. ($75 per couple) Update: Planing to sign up for this one too!

Or, if we wanted to go the whole natural birth route (I like the concept, but I also like the concept of drugs that dull the pain), then we could look into a Bradley Method class, which is actually a 12-week long series that costs around $400 per couple.

Finally, there is The Breastfeeding Center in downtown Washington that offers free classes on breastfeeding, breast pumps, etc. They also provide lactatian consultants for $45/hour.

Oy vey! What choices!