Why should I go to antenatal classes with my partner?
It’s great for men to be as involved as possible with their baby from the very beginning, as well as wanting to learn how to help their partner at the birth.
Antenatal classes will help you find out how you can both prepare for the birth and what to expect during labour. You'll learn how to help your partner with their breathing as well as massage techniques to help her stay calm and relaxed on the big day. These classes also help you get ready for life at home with your new baby and prepare you for how to look after them. And of course they offer the perfect chance to chat and make friends with other dads! They’ll likely have similar questions and concerns as you, and it’s a great opportunity to swap stories and offer a listening ear to other guys before and after the birth.
Choosing the right antenatal class
Most cities will have a number of antenatal class options. You and your partner should be able to find a class to suit you – whether it’s individually at a dads’ session or a ‘mums-to-be only’ class, or signing up together for couples’ classes.
The main thing is to plan ahead and book early. You can book your place from as early as your partner’s 12th week of pregnancy. Your partner’s midwife or doctor will be able to discuss your local options with you and suggest a good class to try. Some antenatal classes include time for you and your partner to look round the hospital or birthing centre where you’re planning to go, so it’s worth asking your health care professional about this too.
For further information about the range of classes available, why not check out the information about antenatal classes in our Pregnancy section?