Most first time parents will want to take a childbirth education class. The best time to plan a class is between week 32-34. Ideally both partners should attend all sessions. This will allow you plenty of time to practice new skills for birth, but not so much time to forget. A well rounded class will include the following topics: Anatomy & Physiology, When to Go To The Hospital, How To Time A Contraction, Breathing and Relaxation Techniques, The Stages of Labor, A Birth movie, What Happens in the Second Stage of Labor and How to Push, Informed Consent, Medical Aspects of Birth (Medications, Inductions, Interventions, C-Sections), Comfort Measures and Postpartum. The information should always be evidence-based and current. You can expect up to 6 hours of education, often broken up in several weeks.
There are also specialty classes offered in Newborn Care, Breastfeeding, Car seat safety, Infant CPR, Advanced Comfort Measures, Partner classes, Infant Massage, Grandparents Class.
There are many excellent methods and types of classes… but any of them should include the information above. They each have their own spin on birth.. its good to investigate what resonates with you and your partner before choosing a class.