Antenatal classes are a brilliant way to get ready for labour, birth, and life with a newborn. Whether you're expecting your first baby or adding to your growing family, they offer expert advice, emotional reassurance, and practical tools to help you feel more prepared.
From understanding the birth process to learning how to feed and care for your baby, here’s everything you need to know about antenatal education, plus guidance on the different types of classes available.
What Are Antenatal Classes?
Antenatal (or prenatal) classes are designed to educate and empower you during the final stages of pregnancy. They usually begin between week 28 and 32, although if you're expecting twins or more, you may start around week 24. Most classes are weekly and last around 1.5 to 2 hours.
They offer:
- Practical advice on pregnancy health
- Guidance on labour and birth choices
- Help with feeding (including breastfeeding)
- Emotional support and reassurance
You can attend with your partner, a friend, or another birth companion. Some classes are women-only, while others are inclusive and open to all.
What Topics Do Antenatal Classes Cover?
Course content can vary depending on the type of class and who runs it, but most will include:
- What happens during labour and birth
- Pain relief options
- Breathing and relaxation techniques
- Signs of labour and when to go to hospital
- Newborn care (nappy changing, bathing, sleep routines)
- Breastfeeding and feeding choices
- Emotional wellbeing during and after pregnancy
- Looking after yourself post-birth
Some classes may also cover pelvic floor exercises, birth positions, or gentle prenatal yoga.
Specialist Breastfeeding Classes
Breastfeeding-focused antenatal classes are usually held during the third trimester so the information is fresh when your baby arrives. They teach:
- How breastfeeding works and how to establish a good milk supply
- Positions and latch techniques
- How to tell if your baby is getting enough milk
- Where to access help if you need it
If you're planning to breastfeed, these classes can build confidence and offer early support.
Benefits of Antenatal Classes
- Boost your confidence and knowledge before birth
- Offer a space to ask questions to trained professionals
- Help you connect with other expectant parents
- Encourage open conversations with your birth partner
- Provide insight into emotional changes after birth
You can also try out different classes to find the right fit; there’s no limit to how many you attend.
Where to Find Antenatal Education
NHS Antenatal Classes
Run by midwives or health visitors, these classes are held in hospitals, health centres, or clinics. They’re usually free but can vary by location. NHS classes may not cover every topic in detail due to larger group sizes or time constraints. Some hospitals now offer virtual tours in place of in-person labour ward visits.
NCT (National Childbirth Trust) Classes
These are paid-for classes that focus on informed choice, with small group discussions, practical demonstrations, and sessions dedicated to feeding and parenting. Partners are encouraged to attend, and groups often stay in touch after birth.
Active Birth Classes
These classes focus on movement, breathing, and positions to help you feel more in control during labour. They often incorporate elements of prenatal yoga and are ideal for those wanting an active labour experience.
Hypnobirthing Classes
If you’re hoping for a calm, low-intervention birth, hypnobirthing could be for you. These classes use breathing techniques, visualisation, and guided relaxation to help reduce fear and pain. They’re suitable whether you’re giving birth at home, in a hospital, or at a midwife-led birth centre.
The Positive Birth Company
Known for its accessible, online hypnobirthing course, the Positive Birth Company offers video-based antenatal education that supports confident, calm, and informed birth experiences. Perfect for learning at your own pace and in your own space.
Your Rights at Work
If you're working, you have a legal right to paid time off for antenatal appointments, including classes recommended by your midwife or GP. Unfortunately, this doesn’t apply to partners, so evening or weekend classes may be more suitable for couples.
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Book early to secure your place; classes can fill up quickly
- Bring your partner or a friend for extra support
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions; that’s what you’re there for
- Choose the right class for your needs - there’s something for everyone
- Practice what you learn, especially breathing and labour techniques
Antenatal education is about more than just birth prep; it’s about growing your confidence, connecting with your support network, and learning how to care for your baby and yourself.
Whether you choose an NHS class, a private course, or an online workshop, the right antenatal education can make all the difference.
