Prenatal classes and information

Prenatal classes are a great way to help you and your birth partner prepare for the exciting journey of parenthood.

Classes are especially helpful for first-time parents as the tips and skills you’ll learn are designed to make pregnancy, and the delivery of your child, as smooth as possible.

The classes will explain:

  • what to expect during your pregnancy
  • what happens during birth and the options for managing labour and birth
  • how to look after your new baby.

Prenatal classes are also known as antenatal, pregnancy or birthing classes.

About the classes

Prenatal classes help you with any questions or concerns you may have about your pregnancy or upcoming delivery.

The number of classes offered and what topics are covered will depend on the hospital or provider. However, their common goal is to make you as prepared as possible.

Topics that are typically covered in prenatal classes include:

  • changes to your body during pregnancy
  • caring for yourself
  • relaxation techniques for giving birth
  • what happens in hospital—when to come and what to bring
  • stages of labour and what is happening to your body
  • positions for labour and birth
  • coping skills for labour (including tips for partners and support people)
  • decisions that may need to be made during labour
  • pain relief options and their side effects.

You may also receive tips about looking after your new child, such as:

  • preparing for a baby
  • breastfeeding advice
  • dealing with lifestyle and emotional changes
  • settling your baby
  • getting community support.

Prenatal classes can also be a social occasion that allows you to meet other expectant parents and create new friendships.

Finding a class

Prenatal classes are usually held in the hospital or birth centre where you will be giving birth. If you are having a homebirth, you should talk to your midwife or doctor about what classes are available.

Your midwife or doctor will give you advice about available classes when you decide where to have your baby.

If you are already booked into a hospital or birthing centre for your delivery, you should ask them about their prenatal classes. Private classes may also be available in your local area.

Book your prenatal classes as early as possible as they have limited spaces and can be very popular.

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