Antenatal Classes

Antenatal classes are designed to educate and inform prospective parents about a range of different subjects related to pregnancy, labour and childbirth and caring for a newborn baby. The classes are not compulsory but midwives and doctors recommend attending a class, as they can be very useful, especially for first time parents. In the UK, both NHS and private classes are available; NHS classes are offered free of charge, while private firms often charge.

What happens during an antenatal class?

Antenatal classes are usually taken by highly qualified midwives; most classes start around thirty weeks into the pregnancy and classes cover a variety of different topics; women who are expecting twins or triplets are usually advised to start classes at around 24 weeks as they are more likely to have their babies prematurely.

During the class the midwife will discuss the particular subject with you and the rest of the class, you will be able to ask questions and they may show you videos or DVDs; some classes may be interactive and you may do practical exercises. You will also be invited to share any concerns or worries and chat to other members of your group.

There are different types of antenatal classes so you may wish to do a bit of research and ask your midwife about classes in your area during the early stage of your pregnancy; you can then arrange to join a particular group. There are now specialist classes for different groups of people available, including those for:

• Parents whose first language is not English
• Single parents
• Young mothers and teenagers
• Older mothers
• Same sex couples

Refresher courses for parents who already have children are also available.

Most antenatal classes are very informal and they are designed to be enjoyable and relaxed; you will be encouraged to meet other couples and discuss your birth plan with the midwife. Classes usually run each week for one or two hours; some are for pregnant women only but most welcome relatives, friends and partners.

What are the benefits of antenatal classes?

There are many benefits of going to antenatal classes; they are a great way to learn about pregnancy, labour, birth and caring for a newborn baby and you have access to trained professionals to ask any questions you might have and share any concerns. Antenatal classes are designed to be fun and light-hearted and they can be a source of great support and confidence, especially for first time parents, who may be feeling very daunted by the prospect of having a baby in the near future.

One of the most beneficial aspects of going to antenatal classes is the opportunity to meet and chat with women and partners in a similar situation to you; classes are designed to cater for groups of women who are at a similar stage of their pregnancy and many people make great friends at antenatal classes and keep in touch once their babies are born. Friends made at antenatal classes can often be a great source of support because some women feel isolated when they have a newborn baby, especially if their friends don’t have children; many women stay in touch and their children grow to be good friends; this can also help with babysitting and childcare arrangements further down the line.

Pregnancy can be daunting and scary and it can be very comforting to be able to talk to other women in a similar situation; learning about aspects of pregnancy and birth can also help you to draw up an effective birth plan, put your mind at ease and prepare you for parenthood.

What subjects are covered in antenatal classes?

Antenatal classes are designed to cover a comprehensive range of subjects; classes may vary slightly depending on whether you choose NHS or private classes but as a general guide, examples of subjects include:

• Health during pregnancy
• Healthy eating
• Preparing for labour and childbirth and what to expect during labour
• Breathing exercises
• Information about exercise and keeping fit during pregnancy
• Coping with labour and information about pain relief
• Ways to relax and stress reduction techniques
• Caring for a baby, including information about breast and bottle feeding
• Newborn health
• Coping with emotions during pregnancy
• Health after birth
• Refresher classes for parents who have already had children

Most courses offer around ten weekly classes, although the number may vary according to where you are and whether you choose to have private or NHS classes.

NHS antenatal classes

Every pregnant woman should have access to free antenatal classes provided by the NHS; you should ask your midwife for details of classes in your area. Most women tend to arrange antenatal classes during the early stages of their pregnancy; this way you can ensure there are spaces available in the classes you want to attend.

Generally, classes are held once a week for around two hours and usually take place in the afternoon or evening. Most classes welcome birthing partners but some are restricted to pregnant women.

Private antenatal classes

Private antenatal classes cover similar subjects to NHS classes but most charge a fee; in some cases, the fees may be waived and you should find this out from the organisation. Most private classes in the UK are run by the National Childbirth Test. Private classes are often smaller and there is more time for discussion.

Should my birth partner come to antenatal classes?

Some classes are only open to pregnant women but most welcome birth partners, friends and relatives. Many women find it beneficial to have somebody with them during the classes and the information can be very valuable for birthing partners and prospective parents. Practical exercises such as breathing exercises are very helpful for birthing partners and information about feeding and caring for a newborn baby can be very useful for future fathers or carers. It is also beneficial for partners to meet and chat to people in a similar situation.