Due in Feb, no antenatal classes in my area

[Beantin]

Moved to the Newbridge/Epping area end of Nov, has taken forever to get into the local system and now they are saying there are no antenatal classes I can attend due to lack of MWs. Am booked on Natal Hypnotherapy classes late in Jan but still nervous as first baby. Don't know anyone in local area and have no idea what am doing. Anyone can tell me what things you learn in antenatal classes so can be sure I read up?

Have you spoken to your local NCT? Their teachers will often do a one-on-one session with you (and your partner if you want) for a fee.

also try the ABM (Association of Breastfeeding mothers) - they often have open groups where you can join and ask questions and socialise, even when pregnant.

Have you spoken to your local hospital as well as GP midwife? Some run day-classes in things like breastfeeding.

not sure about your exact hypnobirthing class but having done everything going, i found that to be the most useful and informative course i did. the nhs classes didn't tell me anything - i knew more from reading books and stuff on the internet.

and the nct classes were really good but only really to meet new people - which you will get tons of once baby is here if you go to mum and baby groups of chilren's centre activities regularly.

so don't worry, so long as you are vaguely aware of what timings to look for in your contractions so you know when to call a midwife or go into hospital, and to stay relaxed, then you'll be fine. having said that - my contractions were far from textbook so i had no idea what was going on other than they were very close together!

beantin-come and join us on our Feb Feb thread and you'll get lots of info...can't guarantee it'll all be good but it should certainly be entertaining
fab feb