Antenatal classes

Antenatal education (also known as birth preparation or parent craft classes) can help you to prepare for your baby’s birth, giving you confidence and information. You can attend these classes with your birthing partner so you can prepare together for the arrival of your baby. Antenatal education is also a good way to make friends with other parents who are expecting babies around the same time as you. These friendships can help parents through the first few months with their new baby. There are two types of class available to choose from:

• free NHS antenatal classes available at your local maternity unit or children’s centre. Ask your midwife about these classes
• private/independent antenatal classes.

Most antenatal classes can be started when you are around 28-32 weeks pregnant, but they can often get booked up in advance so it’s good to arrange your place early on. There are specialised antenatal classes for women expecting twins/triplets and your midwife or doctor will give you the information you need about these. Topics covered by antenatal classes include:

• health in pregnancy, including a healthy diet
• exercises to keep you fit and active during pregnancy
• what happens during labour and birth
• coping techniques for labour and information about pain relief
• relaxation technique
• information about the different modes of birth (vaginal, assisted with ventouse or forceps, caesarean)
• caring for and feeding your baby
• your health after giving birth
• emotions and feelings during pregnancy, birth and after.

Classes can be attended by anyone – it doesn’t matter if it is your first baby or your fifth! A series of short videos have been created for those unable to attend classes in person: