Birth Preparation Course

Many expectant parents find themselves wondering whether – and which – course to take in preparation for birth. From my perspective as a midwife, a birth preparation course makes a lot of sense. Equipped with essential knowledge, you'll feel confident and empowered during your birth. You'll also learn about the birth process, what to pack in your hospital bag, and gain a solid foundation of both theoretical and practical know-how for your upcoming birth.

How to Choose the Right Birth Preparation Course

• Who is leading the course?
• Do I prefer an evening course, a weekend format, or one-to-one antenatal sessions?
• Does the course timing suit my stage of pregnancy?

Attend a Birth Preparation Course Led by a Midwife

The course leader should ideally be an experienced midwife. This ensures that important medical questions – such as pain relief options or up-to-date birthing procedures – are answered competently. You can find tips on choosing the right midwife here.

Should Your Partner Join the Birth Preparation Course?

It’s a good idea to discuss together how involved your partner would like to be – and how many sessions they'd attend. This can help guide your choice of course. For some couples, an online birth preparation course may be a fantastic option.

When Is the Best Time to Start a Birth Preparation Course?

Ideally, choose a course that begins around your 30th week of pregnancy. Starting from week 25 is fine, and the latest should be around week 36.

What Topics Should Be Covered in a Birth Preparation Course?

A good course supports parents-to-be through pregnancy and provides key knowledge about all aspects of childbirth. These are some of the key areas typically included:

You’ll discover techniques to help prepare for birth and reduce anxiety.

Your midwife will guide you on what to pack in your hospital bag. She knows what’s genuinely useful – and what you can skip, as many items are already provided in hospital.

Course participants also learn about the different types of birth – from natural births and various birthing positions, to the benefits of a water birth, and when a caesarean section may be necessary. You’ll also receive practical insights into surgical interventions that might be required during complicated births.

A birth preparation course gives expectant mums the opportunity to explore breathing techniques, including the all-important deep abdominal breathing that’s so valuable during labour.

The sacrum, located between your pelvic bones, naturally shifts during birth to make space for your baby’s head. This can create pressure in a sensitive area. A sacrum massage for pregnant women can help relieve this tension – and it’s something your partner can learn to do.

Once your baby has arrived, new questions and situations will arise during the postnatal period. It feels reassuring to be well prepared for everything related to breastfeeding and newborn care.

What Are the Key Components of a Birth Preparation Course?

• Preparation techniques (raspberry leaf tea, perineal massage, dates, acupuncture, etc.)
• Hospital bag checklist
• Process of natural birth and caesarean section
• Birthing positions
• Water birth
• Sacrum massage
• Abdominal breathing
• Bonding
• Breastfeeding
• Newborn care

Does Hypnobirthing Really Promise a Pain-Free Birth?

“Ivonne, what do you think of Hypnobirthing?” – a question I hear often. My answer is this: I believe it’s important to build your birth experience around trust and relaxation. Hypnobirthing often helps birthing women let go, quiet the mind, and ease into a calm, focused state.

What Is Hypnobirthing?

So what exactly is Hypnobirthing, and who is it for? Before birth, many mums-to-be feel nervous or anxious. Hypnobirthing focuses on reducing these fears using hypnosis techniques. The goal is to achieve a lasting state of relaxation.

If you're interested in a birth preparation course based on Hypnobirthing, look for an instructor who combines midwifery experience with specialist training in Hypnobirthing. After all, you want realistic, supportive guidance throughout your birth journey.

Relax Before Birth: A Little Secret Tip

Music during birth can be incredibly soothing – especially if you’ve already been listening to it throughout pregnancy. That’s why I recommend creating a 6-hour playlist with your favourite songs for labour. Start listening to it consciously while having a bath or relaxing on the sofa in the weeks before. It really works! Your subconscious will later associate this music with calm, positive feelings during birth.

From the heart, I wish you a beautiful and peaceful birth.

Warm wishes, your Ivonne