In 2009, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, there were 295,700 registered births in Australia. Imagine how each of these mothers required intensive preparation and special attention in order to have a successful pregnancy and delivery without compromising both the mother and infant's health and safety.

The quality of service and knowledge of the practitioner depends on three things: education, hands-on training, and extensive experience - and should always be in this respective order. One cannot rely on experience alone since childbirth is a complex procedure that one should not handle without proper training and education.

Nowadays, it is encouraged that parents undergo a childbirth education program in order to receive the proper support needed as they prepare for child birth. This will and help the mother to have a faster and easier birthing experience, and equip both parents with knowledge in providing proper care for their new baby.

There are various maternity care classes one can enroll in. There are institutions or organizations that offer a series of stand alone programs or classes that have their own subject matter to be discussed ? which may or may not be taken without any pre-requisites. Some offer a complete program that covers all the stages in maternity care. Courses are usually divided in sections such as: diet and nutrition during pregnancy, labour and birth class - which usually covers birthing options; parenting, breastfeeding and infant care among others. Also, there are childbirth educators that provide one-on-one classes in the comfort of the couples? homes, while some conduct the classes in small groups.

Going thorough childbirth classes together brings the couple even closer. This promotes the attachment of the father to the mother which the latter needs during the course of her pregnancy. There are also few classes that require the assistance and support of the male partner, such as during pelvic exercises. It is recommended to learn and practice pelvic exercises to help reduce labour pain as well as to reduce the risk and chances of prolonged labour.

Expectant parents who undergo childbirth informational programs are given adequate information that will help both arrive at an appropriate decision in choosing suitable options through conception, labour, and delivery. Considering who will attend to the mother during birth is an important decision the couple has to make. Depending on the expectant parent?s preference of birthing: they can opt for an obstetrician who has undergone a period of university education and specialist training; or a midwife who is also considered a professional in health services specializing in childbirth - it is equally important to choose one that is equipped, reliable, and always on call in case of an emergency.

Below are some pointers that will help you in choosing a childbirth practitioner or education provider:

• Check if they have any certifications, licenses, or permits.
• Inquire if they are certified in CPR and neonatal resuscitation.
• Ask where they were trained and the type of training that they took.
• Choose the one that has the best proximity to your house.
• Make an arrangement ahead of time especially if there are very few practitioners within your radius or suburb.
• Most childbirth practitioners offer childhood classes. It would be beneficial if you will take the classes from the same person who will attend to you during birth.
• Determine the inclusions of the fee. There are providers that offer a package that includes prenatal visits, labour and birth attendance, postpartum visits, newborn assessments, and even includes breastfeeding counseling and maternity care classes.
• It is also helpful if you could ask for some references. It wouldn?t hurt to ask around and consult previous patients about their experiences.