“Okay, now do the breathing.”
Those were the words my doctor said during my induction with my first baby.
The problem?
I had absolutely no idea what she meant.
What breathing? How fast? How many counts?
I had skipped childbirth classes, thinking I’d just figure it out as I went. Thankfully, my nurses quickly showed me a breathing technique and coached me through contractions. Everything turned out just fine, but looking back, I can definitely see why so many parents choose to take Lamaze classes in Atlanta before their baby arrives.
If you’re someone who likes to feel prepared, a Lamaze class can help you walk into labor with more confidence. If you’re more like me and tend to learn as you go, you’ll probably be okay too. There isn’t one “right” way to prepare for birth. But knowing your options can make the experience feel a little less overwhelming.
Whether you’re considering Lamaze classes in Atlanta or another type of childbirth education, understanding your options can help you feel more confident before labor begins.
What Are Lamaze Classes?
Lamaze is an evidence-based childbirth education program designed to help parents understand labor, birth, and the early days with a newborn.
Although Lamaze is often associated with breathing exercises, modern classes cover much more than breathing techniques.
Most Lamaze classes include:
- The stages of labor
- Signs labor is beginning
- Breathing and relaxation techniques
- Labor positions and movement
- Natural comfort measures
- Epidurals and pain medication options
- Medical interventions and when they may be recommended
- How birth partners can provide support
- Creating a birth plan
- What to expect after delivery
- Breastfeeding basics
- Newborn care
Rather than teaching one “correct” way to give birth, Lamaze helps parents understand their choices so they can make informed decisions during labor. For more information about the principles behind Lamaze childbirth education, visit Lamaze International.
Is Lamaze Just About Breathing?
Not at all.
Breathing is simply one tool that can help you stay calm and focused during contractions.
Today’s Lamaze classes also teach techniques like:
- Changing positions throughout labor
- Walking and movement
- Massage
- Relaxation exercises
- Visualization
- Using a birth ball
- Hydrotherapy (laboring in water)
- Partner support techniques
Even parents planning an epidural often benefit from these strategies since labor usually begins well before pain medication is available.
Why Do Parents Choose Lamaze Classes?
Every family prepares differently.
Some people read every pregnancy book they can find. Others listen to podcasts or watch birth videos online. Some prefer learning in a classroom where they can ask questions and practice techniques.
Lamaze classes can help you:
- Feel more confident before labor begins
- Reduce anxiety about the unknown
- Learn practical comfort measures
- Understand hospital procedures
- Know what your options are during labor
- Prepare your birth partner to support you
- Feel more comfortable making decisions if your birth doesn’t go exactly as planned
The goal isn’t to memorize every detail—it’s to feel informed and confident.
When Should You Take a Lamaze Class?
Most childbirth educators recommend taking a Lamaze class between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy.
This timing gives you plenty of opportunity to practice what you’ve learned while keeping everything fresh before your due date.
If you’re expecting twins or have a scheduled induction or C-section, ask your provider whether they recommend taking the class a little earlier.
How Much Do Lamaze Classes in Atlanta Cost?
The cost of lamaze classes in Atlanta depends on the instructor and format.
Typical prices include:
| Class Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Online self-paced | $30–$150 |
| Live virtual class | $100–$250 |
| In-person group class | $150–$350 |
| Private childbirth class | $300–$800+ |
Some insurance plans reimburse childbirth education, and certain employers offer wellness benefits that can help offset the cost.
It’s always worth checking your benefits before registering.
Where to Find Lamaze Classes in Atlanta?
If you’re looking for Lamaze classes in Atlanta, you have several options.
Hospital Childbirth Classes
While not every hospital offers official Lamaze classes in Atlanta, many provide childbirth education that covers labor, delivery, breastfeeding, newborn care, and hospital procedures.
You can often find classes through:
- Piedmont Hospital
- Northside Hospital
- Emory Healthcare
- Wellstar Health System
Topics commonly include:
- Labor and delivery
- Pain management
- Breastfeeding
- Infant CPR
- Newborn care
- Hospital tours
Some hospitals offer discounted or complimentary classes for families planning to deliver there, while others charge a registration fee.
My Experience
When I was pregnant, my husband and I took the hospital tour at Piedmont.
We learned where to park, where to check in, and that we’d need to ring the bell when we arrived in labor.
That was pretty much the extent of my preparation.
I figured I’d just wing the rest.
Looking back, I probably would’ve benefited from a childbirth class—not because labor went badly, but because I would’ve walked in knowing what everyone meant when they started talking about breathing techniques, labor positions, and coping strategies.
Independent Lamaze Instructors
Atlanta also has certified Lamaze educators who offer:
- Small group classes
- Weekend intensives
- Private classes
- Virtual instruction
These classes often spend more time practicing comfort techniques and answering individual questions than hospital-based programs.
Are Online Lamaze Classes Worth It?
Absolutely—especially if your schedule is busy.
Online classes let you:
- Learn at your own pace
- Rewatch lessons
- Include your partner
- Avoid commuting
- Fit classes around work or older children’s schedules
Many parents combine an online childbirth class with a hospital tour to get the best of both experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Many parents planning an epidural or scheduled induction still find Lamaze helpful because they learn about labor, decision-making, and comfort techniques before receiving pain medication.
Some do.
Many hospitals offer complimentary hospital tours, while childbirth education classes may be free, discounted, or available for a fee depending on where you plan to deliver.
Check with your hospital’s maternity department for current offerings.
Yes! In fact, Lamaze classes are designed for both parents. Partners learn how to provide encouragement, suggest comfort measures, and understand what’s happening throughout labor.
Not at all.
Many families take a refresher course before welcoming another baby, especially if it’s been several years since their last delivery or they’re hoping for a different birth experience.
Wear comfortable clothes and bring water, a notebook, and any questions you have. Some instructors also recommend bringing pillows or a yoga ball for practicing labor positions.
Should You Take a Lamaze Class?
I honestly think it depends on your personality.
If you’re someone who likes to prepare, asks lots of questions, and feels more confident when you know what to expect, I think you’ll get a lot out of a Lamaze class.
If you’re more like me and tend to take life as it comes, you’ll probably be just fine too.
After all, plenty of parents never take a childbirth class and still have wonderful birth experiences.
But if I could go back, I probably would sign up for one—not because I think I needed to know every detail, but because it would’ve given me a little more confidence walking into labor.
And maybe, just maybe, I would’ve known exactly what my doctor meant when she said, “Do the breathing.”
More Resources for Expecting Parents
As you prepare for your baby’s arrival, you may also enjoy:
- Your guide to choosing an OB-GYN in Atlanta
- Atlanta lactation consultants every new mom should know
- Prenatal chiropractors in Atlanta
- Fresh 48 vs. newborn photography
Document Your Baby’s First Chapter
Pregnancy has a way of flying by, and before you know it, you’re holding your baby in your arms.
Whether you’re celebrating your growing bump, meeting your little one in the hospital, or settling in at home together, these moments deserve to be remembered.
As an Atlanta maternity, Fresh 48, and newborn photographer, I love documenting each chapter of your family’s story with natural, timeless images.
- Maternity sessions celebrate the excitement and anticipation before your baby arrives.
- Fresh 48 sessions capture your baby’s first hours in the hospital—the tiny details, first cuddles, and overwhelming joy of finally meeting them.
- Newborn sessions take place in the comfort of your home, focusing on genuine connection, quiet moments, and your family’s newest addition.
If you’re expecting and looking for photography that feels true to your family, I’d love to chat!
