For many women, birth is surrounded by uncertainty and fear but it doesn’t have to be. Empowering childbirth is about reclaiming confidence, embracing choice and feeling supported at every step. With the right knowledge and care, mothers can move from anxiety to assurance. This shift not only transforms the birth itself but also creates lasting strength for the journey into motherhood.
February’s Pregnancy Education Month campaign highlights how childbirth education empowers parents for a better birth experience.
Birth is the most natural process on earth and yet studies have shown that one in every four women describes giving birth as traumatic and up to 20% meet the criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder. It has also been shown that women who fear childbirth experience longer labours and were more likely to need an emergency caesarean.
“There is a link between a lack of knowledge, fear and the experience of childbirth,’ says Lynne Bluff, national co-ordinator for the Childbirth Educators’ Professional Forum (CBEPF), which is partnering with Bio-Oil and hospitals nationally for the ‘Empowering Birth’ Pregnancy Education Month campaign.
Good childbirth classes, says Bluff, will equip parents with the pros and cons of all the available childbirth options, as well as practical tips and techniques for the birth and afterwards. Childbirth educators are usually nurses and midwives and parents who can share both professional expertise and personal experience. Classes are offered at many hospitals, clinics and private practices.
“We believe that when parents are informed, any type of birth, from homebirth to caesarean, can be an empowering one. It shifts from a potentially overwhelming experience to one that is fulfilling, positive and, ultimately, beneficial to mother and child,’ says Anna Guerin of Bio-Oil.
‘There is simply no substitute for evidence-based information provided by qualified and experienced professionals. With quality childbirth education, parents are empowered and properly prepared in a warm and supportive way,’ says Bluff.
Over 300 private hospitals and clinics around South Africa are running Pregnancy Education Month activities in February.
Six good reasons to attend childbirth education classes:
Expertise – educators are experienced nurses and midwives who have chosen to specialise in childbirth education because they passionately believe in it.
- Knowledge – you learn about all the childbirth options available to you, and the pros and cons of each.
- Tools – you’ll be given practical tips and techniques – such as breathing, relaxation, positions, massage and visualisation – that can help you have an easier birth.
- Confidence – you and your partner will feel less fear and more confident, knowing what to expect and how to manage it.
- Be prepared – you’ll be taught about all aspects of pregnancy and birth, from stretch marks to breastfeeding and caring for your newborn.
- Connections – you’ll meet other local expectant parents and lifelong friendships can be formed.
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