That's where we found Calmbirth helped us. Not just from a book - from a real live trainer who had been to many births herself. Alot of what Calmbirth is about is supporting both of you, and to help DP become part of the birth not an awkward bystander. My DH would not read any books so he relied on whatever I told him. The hospital classes weren't much chop because it just tended to focus on what pain relief was available, with a little bit of the process thrown in for good measure. But going to the Calmbirth classes allowed us to understand the process and ask real questions of the trainer, plus we also had a visit from another couple who had their baby a few months earlier so we could ask them any questions we liked. They talked very openly and honestly and didn't have the magic perfect birth, but they had a positive one and I think that is the best you could hope for. My DH really got a grip on it all from that point, and is very eager to tell anyone who will listen about it!! We even have friends doing Calmbirth on his recommendation!!

Friends that we met in our Calmbirth classes went and spoke at another class after they had their little girl - she definitely didn't have the perfect birth ending in emergency c/s but still came out of it with a really positive outlook on it all. Same here..... c/s but the only think I really regret is not getting rid of the crappy midwife I got assigned.... especially annoyed because I knew that I could ask for another but wouldn't let some other poor woman get stuck with her!

But I think doing Calmbirth or Hypnobirthing from a book or CDs, although helpful, doesn't give you the full picture, and kind of leaves your DP out. The more he learns for himself, the more confident he will be in supporting you, and the more confident you will be that he will support you and not leave you to deal with it all on your own.

But don't take my word for it.... do some research and decide if it is something you would both like to do. PM me if you want, I'm more than happy to answer questions on my experiences. And that isn't just the Calmbirth experience either.