Lamaze Classes & Pregnancy Complications: What to Expect

Question
Dear Cheri,
Thank you for taking the time to answer my query.

I have a friend who is now three months pregnant.
I'm concerned for her as she is over-weight and has hypertension.

I've heard of Lamaze and Antenatal classes.
Would these assist in reducing complications during her pregnancy/delivery?

What would you advise?

Thank you!

Answer
Hello Suhann. The classes will teach her about relaxation for labor- they will do little or nothing about her wt and hypertension. She needs to make a committment to eating ONLY in a healthy manner for the rest of her pregnancy. If she would put herself in the hands of a midwife, she could shed unwanted pounds during the pregnancy as well as produce a nice large, healthy child. Though Lamaze classes are fairly good- I used to teach them- I now prefer Bradley Classes for prenatal education. Hope that helps- Cheri.