The Rising Popularity of Antenatal Classes by Dr. Garima Jain – Gynecology and Obstetrics, Apollo Cradle

The pharma Times: What are ante natal classes? When do they begin? Is it for both the parents?

Dr. Garima Jain: These are classes to be attended during pregnancy. They can begin from first trim if all safe. Depends upon the design of the classes- could be couple or only mom. However the complete program for Mom and Baby which has Antenatal sessions as a part of the program hence its more vast and exciting for moms.

The pharma Times: There were no such classes before. Yet things were smooth. How do you say it is mandatory for healthy child birth and goes beyond just a fancy fad?

Dr. Garima Jain: Childbirth prep helps in reducing fear in moms and makes them more confident to have a less painful natural labour. Considering the bad lifestyle in the current scenario, the need for such programs has arise.

The pharma Times: What are the things to keep in mind while taking these classes?

Dr. Garima Jain: You need to be careful if its a high risk preg for the exercise classes.

The pharma Times: Yoga is also known to be good for pregnant moms. We have heard of Lamaze. Will both these be part of antenatal classes?

Dr. Garima Jain: Antenatal classes comprises of Antenatal Yoga and Lamaze classes. and much more .

The pharma Times: How do these prepare the parents beforehand psychologically?

Dr. Garima Jain: Antenatal classes even focuses on parenting and counseling , hence these classes will not just prepare the couple for childbirth but also for the right parenting through our pyschologists.

The pharma Times: What is the duration and cost of these packages?

Dr. Garima Jain: Antenatal classes have variety of programs and the basic package starts from Rs 5000/- with 6sessions. 1 hour each.

The different aspects covered under the classes are covered below:

Diet & nutrition of moms-to-be, new moms, newborns

Throughout the period of pregnancy there will be numerous physical and hormonal changes that shape the body of the new mom –to-be. The diet followed to nurture the body of the carrying mom will affect the mother as well as the fetus. Therefore adhering to a salubrious and balanced diet, with a proper balance of micronutrients and macronutrients in the diet, is essential for a healthy pregnancy. Micronutrients are the dietary components, such as vitamins and minerals, which are required in small amount whereas macronutrients, on the other hand, are required in plenty as they provide nutrients that provide calories or energy. Macronutrients include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. The requirements of these components for different individuals may vary due to different lifestyle and health aspects. These pointers could be elaborated in detail by specialists only after regular check-ups and understanding of the lifestyle followed by an individual.

Prenatal and postnatal fitness

Prenatal and postnatal fitness is a combination of yoga, aerobics as well as cardio exercises. These will be guided and demonstrated by specialized trainers. These fitness courses include abdominal exercises as well as strength training and cardio workouts which will improve the health aspects of the mom and baby and reduce the chances of the delivery to move to C-section. These exercises will help in acquiring the pre-pregnancy shape quickly and safely also.

Birthing education for parents-to-be

At the time of first pregnancy most of the people are unaware of many things that need to be considered for a healthy delivery. The main questions that run through the mind will be how will I know I’m in labor? Will it hurt? Will I be lactating enough? How do I care for a newborn? Prenatal classes help in addressing all these concerns and help you in becoming a confident mother.

Lactation counseling

Like any skills, to master the art of breast feeding, new mothers will require lots of patience, knack and practice. A doctor or a trainer could help a new mother with proper lactation counseling, answering all your queries and helps you to be prepared, even before the arrival of the baby.

Emotional health counseling

If in pursuit of happiness, a woman gets married, she feels complete when she becomes a mother. No wonder, women consider pregnancy as a blissful stage of life. However, pregnancy is like a roller-coaster of emotions. Women can experience anxiety, fear, tiredness, sadness, and so much more. In this stage of life, she explores a new identity as mother, which in itself is quite challenging. Women need to seek a new balance, which they experience till the time. So as a result it is an essentiality to undergo an emotional health counseling that will motivate the expecting mom as well as her partner to support her morally.

Corporate Comm India(CCI Newswire)