A typical class might consist of yoga, breathing and relaxation, including some work on positions and breathing for labour. There might then be some time for discussion of a particular birth-related topic, or to meet a new mother and hear her birth story, or simply to socialise.
Preparation for parenthood classes
These classes are basically the ones you've seen on many a sitcom with the prospective Dad sitting behind a heavily pregnant woman both doing their breathing exercises! It can all look highly amusing until your labour actually starts and then you wish you'd listened instead of giggling at the back! The classes are designed to give you information on what to expect in labour, different birth options, pain relief, intervention, and some early practical parenting skills like how to bath a baby.But apart from that, they are the most important place to meet other parents-to-be. Everyone on the course will be due at about the same time and will usually also be first-time parents. They will also be from around the local area. These are the same mums you will meet at the babies' 6 week check, at weigh-ins, their first injections, at toddler groups. It's also really good for the dads to know other dads, and friendships from these antenatal classes can be powerful and long-lasting. Many people use these friends to build their new social life as dinner parties change to chaotic evenings with a takeaway, a few bottles of wine and three or four tiny babies in car seats on or under the dinner table!
There are basically two types:
NHS Classes
If you are having your baby at a hospital, the hospital will run classes or your midwife or local clinic may also run them. Classes are usually run for six weeks and last an hour and a half. These classes are usually free.The classes are usually taught by hospital midwives who will be very knowledgeable about pregnancy, labour and birth and who will also know all about the hospital's procedures and policies. You will also get a chance to look at the maternity unit, and learn useful things like the location of the night bell!
NCT Classes (National Childbirth Trust)
The classes are taught by National Childbirth Trust-trained antenatal teachers, in a house, hall or health centre, usually on a weekly basis, over an eight-week period. Each class lasts two hours. Generally, classes take place in the evening, but some are held at weekends to make it easier for those parents-to-be who work during the day.The classes are usually small (five to seven couples, six to ten women) so you have the chance to get to know the other people on the course.
Most classes have a reunion after all the babies are born. For many people the friendships they make at their National Childbirth Trust class last for years and form the basis of their social circle and support network.
(published with permission in writing from:http://www.netmums.com)
