Should I join the NCT for the first time even though this is baby no3?

[bobsmum]

I'm hoping for another normal delivery after I had a VBAC with dd.

This time I'm going to ask to be in the m/w unit as last time I had to have CFM etc in the higher risk unit.

As I can't have an epidural in the m/w unit, I'm wondering whether "proper" antenatal classes would help (ie not the NHS hour or so I had years ago with ds).

I've never had "real" detailed advice on breathing/relaxation/natural labour etc and as long as baby no3 doesn't mind being a guinea pig, I'm hoping that this time round I'll be more confident in myself etc etc. and be able to have a birth with as little intervention as possible.

Anyway! What are NCT classes like for birth preparation etc? Dh will need persuading that they're worth the money! Or will I learn anything new at all? Or is there an alternative?

I would have - but we've got friends visiting that weekend.

Will definitely look into refresher stuff - like the idea of a small class

Ha! I'm on the front page - wondered why this thread was still alive and kicking

Thank you everyone - you're all being very helpful.

Anyone know how much NCT classes cost, as that will be the deciding factor really?

iirc when we did the refresher at the beginning of this yr it cost £25 per couple. but if you can't afford it the nct can make it available to you anyway.

Ja9 - that sounds great - far more reasonable than I was expecting and officially has the dh seal of approval now too