Antenatal classes? What is the best point in pregnancy to start? Any advice on what to go for/ avoid

[cityangel]

Thanks for all your advice on hospital options. I am happy to say we've now found somewhere.
My next area to research is antenatal classes.

I joined the NCT online and am waiting to receive information, they're not active in my area and the other London classes look very full. But I've heard nothing but good things about making friends and learning.

I know there are other good options and there could be some classes at the hospital.

Just really hoping people could let me know their advice and experiences good and bad.

Thanks in advance

NHS classes usually start at 30 plus weeks. There might also be other cheap classes, such as aquanatal, where you can meet ladies at a similar stage of PG to yourself.

Thanks TC aquanatal sounds fun, I'll see if I can find some classes

cityangel, what part of London are you in? The NCT might not contact you until later on in pg. But you should be able to get in touch with the one closest to you, even if it's not in your area.

Phone the main NCT enquiry line and ask them for advice. They book up really early, but don't usually start until the third trimester. They also run intensive weekend courses in some areas, which might be worth looking into if you miss out on the 6-8 week course. If you can get on to a course in an area near-ish to you, do it. Your local hospital will do the shorter NHS course of classes, usually for free and they usually squeeze people in, no matter what the numbers. You can do both NHS and NCT classes - they aren't mutually exclusive. Alternatively, there are loads of private antenatal teachers around.

what about

www.thebabymoon.co.uk

cx

Thanks for the useful hints and tips. I think I will try and call NCT on Monday and look-up other options. I like the idea of the weekend course as it can be difficult for me and dh to get away from work on time.

Hi E14 mum I too live in E14 and am due July 08.