Quite surprisingly there are no Lamaze certified instructors, and therefore no classes, in my area - Savannah, GA. 

Can you suggest an audio tape or DVD that would be a good replacement for the actual Lamaze class?  I have ordered the "Official Lamaze Guide" book, but was looking for additional instruction (especially on relaxation techniques).

If this is not the correct forum for such advice/questions, can you direct me to another forum??

Thanks!!

This isn't my area of expertise. However, seeing as you have ordered the Official Lamaze Guide I suggest you post your question on the authors' blog. (You'll love the book, by the way.) If anyone reading this thread wants to chime in, feel free.

-- Henci

If you can't find Lamaze classes, I'd highly encourage you to consider other childbirth ed methods, since the hands on instruction of a class can be very helpful.  I'd especially encourage you to look for a class that is independent of a Dr. or hospital.

Jenn

I have the same problem in my area. There aren't any options for birthing classes (except the hospital ones) I went to those classes and my husband and I were the only couple in the group who wanted to have a birth with no interventions! It was hard for my questions to be answered through this class. I am using a doula but I want some relaxation classes to get through a drug free birth. Any video options would be nice!!

Perhaps your doula may have some suggestions. She is likely to know what is available in your community.

-- Henci

I know it sounds bad to suggest Bradley classes on the Lamaze website, but they both have good things to offer! There is a bit of animosity between the two I've noticed, but they're much much more alike than different.  If you can't access Lamaze classes, Bradley classes will help you with relaxation during labor and the method has an (sometimes over bearing) emphasis on giving birth naturally and avoiding interventions.  I haven't taken the class, but am pregnant and just finished Susan McCutcheon's "Natural Childbith the Bradley Way".  There was really some good information in there, so take what you can!

It's fine to recommend Bradley classes on a Lamaze website. The important thing in choosing childbirth classes is to have a good fit, which I think has more to do with the individual instructor than with any particular brand name. Good instructors tend to be eclectic anyway. Classes evolve based on experience, continuing education seminars and workshops, reading, etc.

-- Henci

I have kind of a unique problem.  Lamaze classes are not available in my area, but first time birthing classes are.  I am not a first time mom.  This is my fourth baby, but my  youngest is 13 as of yesterday.  I feel like a first time mom, and feel like I'm not going to remember anything.  My last Lamaze class was actually 16 years ago with my first.  Is it all going to come back to me??

I think that it will come back to you, but if you are feeling rusty, why not take another series? Also, it isn't so much about you remembering your coping skills but about you and your partner working together and finding your groove again. I'm betting, too, that with three other children, life is pretty busy, and it would be nice to commit time together that is focused on this coming baby.

That being said, I suggest you find out more about the content of the classes that are available, the setup--number of classes, number of couples, length of classes, and so forth--and the qualifications of the teacher. Specifically, being a labor and delivery nurse does not qualify a person to teach birthing classes. If the class is substandard, you would be better off not wasting your time. The Lamaze website has some considerations when choosing a class that might be helpful. 

Alternatively, if the class doesn't measure up--or even if it does and you plan to take it--consider hiring a doula. You can find out more about doulas on the Childbirth Connection website and on the DONA International website as well. Both sites have considerations and interview questions to help you choose a doula.

-- Henci