Ante Natal class advice please for scared first time mum.

[applecheeks21]

Hiya,

I am a first time mum, due in December (yes I know it is only early). I have been doing a bit of reading and while some of what I have read I have tried to take with a pinch of salt, there are some parts that worry me when it comes to ante natal classes.

I have heard stories of couples unable to get onto free classes as they have booked up super quickly and then not being able to afford the NCT ones. I have also heard that the NCT ones can be patchy dependant on where you live.

I suppose really, I need some advice:

1. When do I start looking for these classes and when can I book onto them
2. My husband is VERY squeamish and will struggle at the delivery - will the classes make him worse?
3. Any other advice - I am in South Manchester (Trafford/Chorlton area)

Thanks people! :)

My NCT classes were really good, and the DHs were all made to feel included and welcome, I don't think any of them found the detail too graphic. But IMO knowledge is all useful when it comes to birth - better he is given the facts now than be horrified when it comes to the actual day - you will need his support, and him quivering in the corner will be no use to you.

If you can afford the NCT ones I would say definitely go for those. They also have a session on baby care (which I believe the NHS ones largely neglect). Also there is usually a whole session on b/feeding which was useful.

By far the most useful thing about our NCT class was meeting a small group of local women all due at the same time as me, a ready-made support group for post birth and beyond. My DD is now 3.5 and our group still meets up and has a laugh together. Also your baby will have a ready-made group of playmates too.

TBH I forgot most of what I was taught in the classes when it came to the actual birth, but the experience of being with other women and going through it together was very helpful.

I am now pg with #2 and sad at the thought I will not have this same support group for this baby.

Oh, when to book. I would get on to them straight away, the NCT ones can book up very early. Even if you are a bit early there is no harm in getting your name down now. I think I was about 14 weeks when I booked my NCT classes.

Thank you so much for that GetDownYouWillFall. That is a help and I will get onto them ASAP.

I have revisited my doctor today and they gave me some numbers of classes in the area so I will call the midwife. I will also look at the NCT classes.

Thank you and congrats on #2 pg.

:)