Whether you’re a first-time-mothers-to-be or mother of a few children, we often find ourselves having lots of questions and worries about literally everything during pregnancy, such as when will I know if I’m in labour? Will it hurt? What are some of the things that I need to take note of during birth? Will there be anyone to guide me during breastfeeding? Or how should I even start breastfeeding? All these worries that you might have, regardless as a first-time mom or not, you might just need a refresher. But how? Yes, antenatal class.
What is antenatal class
Antenatal classes can help to provide you confidence and information to prepare you for labour, birth, and your parenthood journey. Generally, it should cover all the general information ranging from antenatal diet and plan, exercises, the process of labour, childbirth and after delivery.
What happens in antenatal class
During class, the instructor will go over the signs of labour and review the stages of labour. She will talk about positioning for labour and birth, and ways to control pain. She will also give you strategies to work through labour pains and help you stay relaxed and in control. You will practice many of these strategies in class, so you are ready when the big day arrives. Antenatal classes usually welcome the person who will provide support during labour, such as a spouse, sister, or good friend to join, though some classes are just for you. You can check this with your coach beforehand.
Antenatal class is usually conducted by a group of experienced and qualified consultants and specialists where parents can be assured that you’ll be learning plenty on preparing for your birth and early parenthood such as caring for your newborn – baby bath, baby burp, baby massage, etc!
If you’re worried or shy, don’t fret about being socially awkward as antenatal classes are usually conducted in a cheerful and interactive manner where parents get to connect with other parents who are expecting babies around the same time as you. This is also an easy and good way to make friends that can help you through this new parenthood journey.
When to have antenatal class
Most antenatal classes start around 8 to 10 weeks before your baby is due when you’re around 30 to 32 weeks pregnant though you can always choose to join the class anytime when you’re feeling ready. Most antenatal classes are available online or offline now where you and your spouse can choose according to your comfort and convenience.
Joining an antenatal class helps to prepare you for childbirth, breastfeeding, infant care and even learning to cope during the early parenthood stage. This can be a great way to lessen your worries, anxiety and build your confidence level when greeting your bundle of joy. Be sure to register for your antenatal class soon! Good luck and have fun!
References
- Birthing, breastfeeding, and parenting classes | Office on Women's Health [Internet]. Womenshealth.gov. 2022 [cited 3 March 2022]. Available from: https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/getting-ready-baby/birthing-breastfeeding-and-parenting-classes
- Antenatal classes [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2022 [cited 3 March 2022]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/labour-and-birth/preparing-for-the-birth/antenatal-classes/
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