ANTENATAL CLASSES AND BIRTH PREPARATION

November 4, 2019 /

Written by Caroline Meyer

When it comes to a first baby (and even thereafter), antenatal classes are there to help you learn what to expect as well as to meet other parents or parents-to-be. Antenatal classes are also a good way for partners to get involved in the pregnancy and childbirth preparation. 

Most basic antenatal classes will teach you about some or all of the following: 

  • Advice on diet and nutrition during pregnancy and basic physical movement 
  • Dealing with minor issues you may experience during pregnancy 
  • Creating a birth plan 
  • Knowing when to head to the hospital or contact your midwife 
  • General experiences of third trimester and potential signs of labour 
  • Exercises you can do before, during and after childbirth 
  • Discussion on the usual experiences during labour and birth 
  • Advice on pain relief methods that should be available 
  • Breathing exercises and ways to improve relaxation during the birth 
  • Potential problems and procedures that may be recommended during the birth 
  • Caring for and feeding a new-born baby 
  • Suggestions for bonding with your new-born including skin-to-skin contact 
  • Information on support groups that may be available 
  • Potential impact on your relationships 

There are also more specialised antenatal classes that some people choose to attend. These can include: Hypnobirthing, active birthing, water births and other alternative birthing methods, physiotherapy, varied relaxation techniques, massage and more. Other classes available include yoga for pregnant mums, Pilates and even acupuncture. 

WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND ANTENATAL CLASSES? 

Antenatal classes allow you and your partner to learn about labour, birth and taking care of a new-born together. It allows you to bond as a couple as well as to meet other parents. You are able to ask questions and also learn from other people’s questions. Many of the techniques can be practised together, which also includes both partners in the experience. This can include breathing and relaxation exercises.  Your partner for the antenatal classes does not need to be your spouse; you may choose a close friend or family member instead. It is recommended that partners attend at least one or two classes to get more insight into the new life coming into the world and getting their questions answered as well.  If you do not have anyone to go with you, you can still attend classes on your own. 

If you are not a new parent or you have taken care of little ones in the past, you may think that you already know everything that will be taught in the antenatal classes. This might not necessarily be the case; many parents find that they still learn from the classes. Many skills needed when going through the birthing process and taking care of a new-born need to be learned and may not come naturally as people believe they will.  To some people feeding and caring for a new-born may seem instinctive but for many new parents, they do need to learn how to do things correctly. Antenatal classes will also help parents feel more confident and assured when taking care of a new little one. They are aware of normal behaviour and when they need to seek help.  Tips on bonding with a new-born also go a long way to ensure a good relationship between parent and baby.  

Antenatal classes also provide some basic information on possible challenges you may have to deal with when there is a small baby in the home. This can include anything from illness, failure to latch properly, allergies and much more. Mum may also experience issues such as postnatal depression, fatigue, bewilderment and even health issues such as mastitis. Having information on signs and symptoms allows you to seek assistance when needed. This ensures a better outcome for you and your little one. 

Most people attend antenatal classes which start at around 8 to 10 weeks before your due date (around 30 to 32 weeks of pregnancy). There are antenatal classes that start earlier and run for up to 24 weeks of pregnancy and centre around movement, nutrition and health. There are 1 day courses, but most run for an hour or two and are presented weekly for a number of weeks. Some places offer weekend antenatal classes to allow partners to attend. Even if you don’t want to do all the classes, you may want to join a refresher class before the birth of your baby. 

.