Pregnancy and Birth

Ante-natal Classes

So you are having a baby, that's great news!

• What will happen to you during your pregnancy?
• What will the birth be like?
• How will you look after the baby after it is born?

Ante-natal classes will help provide the answers

When you see your doctor or midwife, ask where your local ante-natal classes are held. Classes run by your doctor's surgery or the hospital are usually free, however with the NHS cut, you may be expected to pay for your local classes privately.

At the classes you will find out about:

• What happens during pregnancy
• What happens during the birth and choosing pain relief
• How relaxation and breathing exercises can help
• What can go wrong
• What your partner can do to help you
• What happens if your baby is premature (born early) or ill.
• Looking after and feeding your baby.

The National Childbirth Trust (NCT) also runs ante-natal classes which are very popular.

If you need an interpreter, tell the organisers of the classes and try and give as much notice as possible. Contact PALS of hospital if necessary.