Back to school

Commented by 1 Member   View Comments

Article Summary

All NHS antenatal clinics either run regular antenatal classes or have links with a nearby clinic that does. In many areas the National Childbirth Trust (NCT), or other pregnancy groups, also run independent classes. Most classes are arranged in a series of weekly or fortnightly courses that you can complete during the pregnancy. It is a very good idea to attend at least one course during your pregnancy. They will give you and your partner a lot of information and support to help you during labour and birth. You'll get to meet other pregnant couples and share advice and concerns with them. Taking part in an antenatal class will increase your confidence as you face the big day.

 Differences Among Classes

 What a Good Course Offers

Differences Among Classes

Ask around among your friends and you midwife about local classes in your area. They are not all the same. Some are primarily lectures, and merely inform you about what you can expect when you go to the hospital for delivery. Others are more interactive. Interactive courses are kept small, usually with no more than 10 couples. This allows for one-on-one instruction in practicing comfort measures and creates a more intimate atmosphere in which to share advice and concerns. Some courses discuss the choices available in terms of pain relief, procedures such as episiotomy, fetal monitoring, and where to deliver, at home, or in hospital. Be inquisitive as you look for a course; don't choose one just because it's held at your hospital or close by.

What a Good Course Offers

Here are things you should look for:

  at least 6 hours of instruction, with classes spread out over several weeks;

  an emphasis on practicing pain management skills (relaxation, positioning, massage, breathing) for you, and labour support for your partner;

  small classes, with no more than 10 to 12 couples; 

  a curriculum that supports birth as normal and natural and empowers couples to make informed choices;

  class content that includes labour, birth, the early postpartum period (the time right after the baby is born), the newborn, breastfeeding, and adjusting to parenthood. Other topics should include medical procedures (such as fetal monitoring and episiotomy), medication, anesthesia, communication skills, and healthy lifestyles;

  time for questions and discussion;

  If you choose an NHS class a qualified midwife or educator will usually run it. If you choose an independent class check that the instructor is qualified. Classes run by the NCT are nearly always run by trained teachers, who are usually also qualified midwives.

NHS antenatal classes are free but the cost of independent classes varies. NCT antenatal classes usually run over eight weeks in the final three months of your pregnancy. Each class is held in a house, hall or health centre, generally in the evening, but sometimes at weekends, and lasts two hours. There is a charge. NCT classes are very sociable. Most classes have a reunion after all the babies are born and many people make life long friendships there.

To learn more about antenatal classes and to find one in your area, visit the NCT Web site

For more information on the pain management techniques you might learn in an antenatal class, see our article on Comfort Measures.

Back to top