If you are expecting a baby then you might be thinking about whether you should join an antenatal class. But what is an antenatal class and why should you go to them?
In short, antenatal classes – sometimes known as birth or parenting classes – help expectant parents prepare for the likes of labour and birth, along with feeding and caring for their newborn baby.
If you are pregnant and live in Woking, then the good news is, you can find The Parents Class right on your doorstep.
Our pregnancy classes are led entirely by midwives, providing mums and dads-to-be, who are living in Woking, with evidence-led trusted advice, support and guidance in a non-judgemental and relaxed setting.
Aside from providing you with lots of information and equipping you with the vital knowledge you need ahead of your parenting journey, antenatal classes provide the perfect place for expectant mothers and fathers to connect with others – who are in the same position as them.
Here are five very good reasons why you should join our antenatal sessions:
1) To gain trustworthy information, knowledge and understanding
As mentioned, antenatal classes provide expectant parents in Woking with the opportunity to learn about pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum care.
At The Parents Class, we are committed to delivering sessions that are all led by midwives and providing information based on evidence-led research.
By joining our antenatal classes, those attending can gain essential knowledge and understanding of what to expect during labour, birth and during those early newborn stages, so they feel empowered to make well-informed decisions.
2) A ready-made support network
Antenatal classes provide a space for expecting parents to connect and engage with other expectant parents, who are going through a similar experience.
After all, when you’re expecting a baby, it can be an isolating and overwhelming time, particularly for first-time parents.
Antenatal classes, just like ours, provide mums and dads-to-be with a ready-made support network, for you to share experiences with, ask each other questions and provide one another with vital emotional support.
The best bit? The Parents Class has a number of class options available (for example, 30-38 weeks) so you can join, safe in the knowledge that those attending with you, will be on a similar journey to you.
3) Helps to reduce anxiety and stress
Some people find pregnancy a stressful and anxious time.
Antenatal classes give expectant parents the chance to address their concerns and ask the experts – in our case, a midwife – any questions they might have.
Learning about what to expect during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum – and by experiencing this journey with fellow expectant parents – can help to reduce any worries some people might be feeling.
4) Helps expectant mothers and fathers prepare for labour and delivery
Understandably, one of the main topics of discussion for expectant parents is labour and birth.
Antenatal classes can help mums and dads-to-be prepare for labour and delivery, and additionally, empower them to make well-informed decisions and choices shaped around their own personal preferences.
And remember, our antenatal classes aren’t just for expectant mothers – we welcome partners too. Sometimes, it can be difficult to know exactly what position you play during birth, when you’re the partner.
Join The Parents Class, and we will teach you about your role as a birthing partner, as we help you prepare for labour.
5) Learn about postpartum care
At The Parents Class, we believe that preparing for those first few weeks with a newborn is just as important as learning all about pregnancy, labour and birth.
The topics we cover include feeding, infant care and maternal wellbeing, proving parents with the vital information and skills they need to care for themselves and their newborn.
We also help participants create a postnatal plan, so they feel as in control as possible during those first few weeks with a newborn.
Are you looking to join an antenatal class? Join The Parents Class
If you’re pregnant and living in Woking, then it’s time to join The Parents Class.
Our midwife-led classes provide you with vital advice, support and guidance while connecting you with others in Woking, who are expecting a baby.
And better still, we organise a meet-up for you and your new parenting pals, post-birth, giving you the chance to catch up and meet each other’s newborns.
Book an antenatal class with us today.