Why Christian Childbirth Classes?
Christian childbirth classes are not about whether it is right or wrong to use pain medications in labor, or if it is right or wrong to breastfeed. I admit to having a bias of believing that from a physiological standpoint, unmedicated birth is the best choice for mother and baby in the absence of complications that require intervention. I also believe that breastfeeding is the method of feeding infants created by God, and provides many benefits for mother and baby (and father-a good excuse to skip 2 a.m. feedings 
). But I do not believe that specific choices in medication and feeding are moral issues.
The Presence of God
What is a moral issue is that expectant Christian parents prayerfully examine the scriptures and make choices that reflect their trust in God, not their fear of what might happen. Christian and Certified Lactation Counselor Laurie Moody sums it up well when she writes:
…how is it that in every other situation we face as Christian women we totally believe in the power of God to sustain us except this one area? Very few talk about childbirth and trusting God to enable them to do the job. For the most part, women who have the right kind of support and preparation would find that labor can be a tremendously strengthening and spiritual experience. The same God who can “supply all our needs,” who is the God of all comfort, is our strong defense and high tower, is our buckler and strength, is the same God who can help us experience every aspect of labor and manage it without undue hardship. When my labor with my third child was not progressing, my husband, doula, doctor and I all joined hands and prayed individually for God to bring the child forth. That was an incredibly strengthening experience! There was a palpable presence in our room of the Great Physician. Nothing but feeling completely in His hands could bring about the peace that I knew. So, how about it? Are you at least willing to pray about it? Become informed and see if it makes a difference in your labor.
In a Christian childbirth class couples have the opportunity to ask questions about how their faith and pregnancy inter-relate. The have an opportunity to examine scriptures in a way that they have not considered, and learn how their faith can help them weather the challenges of birth–whatever those challenges are. Also, when taught in a group setting, Christian childbirth classes allow expectant parents a chance to develop relationships with other couples who will be able to walk alongside of them in the challenging days of new parenthood.
“For you created my inmost being, you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful. I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” Psalm 139:13-16
This is really good Jenn. I’m so proud of you.
Thank you Patrice!