Hypnobirth/Calmbirth classes - actual classes essential or could I do it from home?

[PumpkinZulu]

So DH and I are really finding the costs of this birth adding up. Midwife + Doula + placenta encapsulation + birth pool = a lot of dosh, happily spent because it is/will all be so worth it, but it's still a consideration. I feel very strongly about doing a Hypnobirth course this time around to help me focus a little better, mainly in case there is another event of a transfer (although I doubt it seeing as DD's was the HB program's policy, not really a necessity). I did get very scared about going into a hospital to birth and it took me a lot of time and energy to come back into myself and focus, so to me a Hypnobirth class makes sense. I was wondering for those who have done it, would you say it's absolutely necessary to do the actual course with a teacher, or do you think borrowing the materials from someone and perhaps speaking a lot about it with your midwife and doula would result in the same level of understanding? Like I said, I feel it's definitely important for this birth and how I feel about it, and if doing the class is the best option, I won't think twice. TIA

[LionsandBears]

I did the hypnobabies home study course. I tried the calmbirth class and it just didnt work for me.

I'll lend you the hypnobabies course. It was brilliant, even when I forgot stuff during birth.

[PumpkinZulu]

L&B that would be wonderful!

[Cassius2]

i loved my calmbirth course but had to do it intensively as it was being used to overcome birth trauma; so although i recommend the courses as they are just phenomenal in gaining insight and support etc., if you need to find room to save some cashola then the homestudy is the definitely the best way. the cds etc are pretty awesome and take you right through the process (i had a friend give me her hypnobirth stuff).