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Labour and birth can be a scary prospect for first-time parents, but antenatal classes are a great way to educate yourselves and feel empowered for the journey ahead.
Antenatal classes help you and your partner to prepare for labour, birth, and early parenting by providing information, decision-making tools, tips & tricks, and a safe place to ask all your questions. They're also a great way to meet other expecting parents.
Here's what we'll cover in classes:
Labour & birth 101
Coping strategies
Birth perceptions
Planning for labour & birth
Realities of parenting
Breastfeeding
Learning babies
Nurture(d) antenatal classes are held in Hamilton East, spanning seven weeks on Thursday evenings, 7-9pm. Classes are limited to 6 couples per group to foster relationships and create a safe, intimate environment. Click to see our upcoming course dates.
The cost to attend is $199 for you and your partner / friend / family member. You will get access to:
All seven classes, including hot drinks and a light snack each session
Summaries of all sessions for you to keep and refer back to
Guest speakers (personal trainer, women's health physio, car seat technician)
A tour of the birth and postnatal rooms at River Ridge East Birth Centre
A discount code for online baby first aid courses
A wee goodie at the end to thank you for coming along
It’s recommended you book antenatal classes as soon as possible as they do fill up quickly, and aim to begin antenatal classes around 24-28 weeks pregnant.
(Please also enquire about private antenatal classes if you are interested.)
FAQs
Why should I attend antenatal classes?
Antenatal classes offer so much more than just information — they’re about feeling confident, supported, and prepared. You’ll learn what’s happening in your body during labour and birth, discover practical strategies for coping, and explore how to advocate for your choices. Partners are encouraged to join and learn how to support you every step of the way. With hands-on learning, expert guidance from a qualified Childbirth Educator and guest speakers, and the chance to connect with other parents-to-be, you’ll start building your village and your confidence.
When should I start antenatal classes?
It's recommended you start antenatal classes around 24-28 weeks pregnant, and book your spot as soon as you can, as classes do fill up quickly.
Can my partner or support person come too?
Yes, absolutely! It's very beneficial to have a member of your birth support team attend classes with you, and it can be anyone you like. The course fees cover you and one support person, but that support person can change week to week.
What topics are covered in antenatal classes?
We cover a lot in seven weeks, but my goal isn't to overload you with information. I am here to help you filter the information through the lens that best suits you and your preferences. That being said, we will look at what is actually happening during labour and birth, strategies for coping with labour, what you are entitled to in the birth room and how to advocate for your choices, some of the realities of parenting a newborn and how to look after yourselves during that time, and of course how to feed and look after your newborn baby.
Can I ask more questions during the class?
Yes, please!! I love it when you ask questions and that's really what you're there for - to get your questions unanswered.
What other couples have said.....
“Ainsley's classes have been amazing, we feel so much better prepared! Would highly recommend her classes. This is one of the best things we have chosen to do during our pregnancy."
-- Allie & Jesse
“If you want to prepare yourself for baby and learn about the situations you will face along the way, this class is perfect! A comfortable environment to expand your knowledge and prepare for your future family.”
-- Renee & Todd
“Ainsley is very welcoming and knowledgeable, non-judgmental and just really lovely. The classes are small and intimate. Highly recommended."
-- Barb & Jarrad
“Ainsley really provides the most comprehensive, useful education a new parent could need. I feel 1000 times more confident in my birth experience and becoming a new parent."
-- Konny & Jeffrey
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