Some people like to know as much as they can about anything new. Others have more of a ‘let’s see what happens’ perspective. Antenatal classes are a great way to support learning about pregnancy, labour and childbirth.
These are a series of classes which expectant couples can attend or, digitally connect to during the pregnancy. They are not essential but can be a great way for women and their partners to learn about pregnancy, labour, birth and new baby care.
Generally, antenatal classes cover the entire content in around 12 hours. Classes are can be held on week nights or on weekends for around 1-2 hours at a time. Topics are divided into pregnancy, labour and birth, pain relief, birth positions and early newborn care.
On-line classes are another option for couples who can’t attend classes in person or who would prefer to cover the content in their own time.
Most expectant couples attend some form of antenatal class during the first pregnancy when the experience is all new.
There’s no one right time, though the earlier you book the better. There is generally a cap of 6-8 couples per course and antenatal classes can be very popular. You may need to pay a deposit if you’re attending a private course.
Ideally, you’ll have completed your antenatal course by the time you’re 36 weeks pregnant.
Most maternity hospitals have antenatal classes. Speak with your maternity care provider about where your local classes are will be conducted. Antenatal classes run in hospitals are generally run by midwives, though physiotherapists and qualified childbirth and parenting educators can also coordinate antenatal classes.
Often there are guest speakers who attend such as lactation consultants or a representative Australian Breastfeeding Association or from Playgroup Australia.
Some suburban yoga/pilates/physiotherapy studios also run antenatal classes.
Fees vary depending on who is running the classes. Public hospitals don’t charge, some of the private maternity hospitals don’t charge additional fees for their antenatal classes if the woman is birthing in the same hospital.
Private yoga/pilates/physiotherapy practices charge for a series of classes and sometimes offer a discount if they’re all paid for at once.
Fees can range from $300-$600 depending on whether the woman attends on her own or comes with her partner. Your private health insurance may cover all or part of the costs.
We all have our own unique philosophies of life and healthcare. And fortunately there are also a range of options when it comes to antenatal care classes. You could find it helpful to attend more than one type of class.
Common types of antenatal classes offered are
No, it’s all about choice. But check with your partner to see if they’re keen and don’t assume they’ll feel the same way as you.
Antenatal classes are also called birthing and parenting classes – most cover the same general content.
Written for Huggies by Jane Barry Midwife and Child Health Nurse on 26/04/20.