Mothercraft childbirth classes are offered for a nominal cost.

Josee and Carl Neblett decided to take a childbirth class at the Maternal Health Clinic, and Mrs. Neblett pointed out that "you can't beat the price'' at only $5 per class.

Although this isn't the couple's first experience with Mothercraft classes -- they gave birth to daughter Alexandra a few years ago -- this was a "refresher course'' for Mrs. Neblett to become reacquainted with childbirth relaxation and breathing techniques.

"The whole idea of a childbirth class is to be prepared,'' said nurse Rachael Hopper.

"A lot of fathers don't know what they should do, and they should be encouraged to attend and learn about the aspects of giving birth, different ways of soothing and comforting their partner, and to just be there for her during this emotional time.

"We talk about breathing and relaxation techniques, labour from beginning to end, different medications available for pain, what to expect for a Caesarean section, and we finish the class with contraception information,'' she added.

Mr. Neblett, one hand placed on his wife's swollen belly, said it's been a good experience for him to attend the childbirth classes.

"We got an ultrasound, and we know it's a boy -- we're going to name him Nathaniel. I didn't want to know (the baby's gender), but she couldn't keep a secret,'' he chuckled.

"It's a real eye-opener -- it's given me a whole new respect for what women have to go through.

"I used to think all that crying is for attention, but my whole mindset has changed,'' he smiled.

For prenatal care, Mothercraft class schedule information or family planning appointments, call the Maternal Health and Family Planning Clinic on 236-0224 ext. 238.

Information on fetus development was excerpted from the Greater Carolinas Women's Center webpage at www.universityobgyn.com.