Maternity: Birth & Early Parenting Education

Birth & Early Parenting Education

Our childbirth and parenting classes are designed to give you and your partner the knowledge and confidence to enjoy the future now that you are about to become parents. Our aim is to make the transition to parenthood a positive one by preparing you for the changes you will face, and equipping you with the skills to cope with those changes thus enabling you to make informed choices and decisions about your care.

Childbirth classes are also the ideal occasion to meet other couples and to develop a support network with others going through the same experiences. Each session is designed to cover a variety of topics from pregnancy and labour, through to baby care and parenting skills. Everything you are taught is evidence- based and reviewed regularly to ensure that all information is current and accurate.

Classes are run by midwives who have many years experience in both maternity care and education. They will give you the opportunity to ask questions and consider all your options in a relaxed and informal environment.

WHEN AND WHERE ARE THE CLASSES HELD?

There are three options from which to choose. All are held in the education room located by the back entrance of the hospital. Class sizes are limited to a maximum of 10 couples.

1. WEEKLY CLASSES
   Five sessions are held over a five week period. They run on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or a Thursday evening. Light refreshments are available.

2. WEEKEND WORKSHOP
   These are held once a month. Two sessions are held on consecutive Saturdays. Lunch and refreshments are included.

3. CAESAREAN CLASSES
   These classes are designed specifically for couples who have planned an elective caesarean. These classes are held every three months on a Saturday. Lunch and refreshments are provided for you.

WHAT IS COVERED IN THE COURSES?

WEEKLY CLASSES AND WEEKEND WORKSHOP

• Anatomy and physiology
• Stages of labour
• When to come to hospital
• Birth video
• Pain relief
• Birth preferences
• Medical interventions
• Avoiding interventions
• After the birth
• Staff roles
• Hospital tour
• Emotional changes
• Postnatal support
• Feeding your baby
• Neonatal examination
• Newborn conditions
• Immunisation
• Parenting skills

CAESAREAN CLASSES

• Basic anatomy
• The caesarean procedure
• After the birth
• Staff roles
• Hospital tour
• Emotional changes
• Postnatal support
• Feeding your baby
• Neonatal examination
• Newborn conditions
• Immunisation
• Parenting skills

Booking in

We recommend you start classes when you are around 28-32weeks pregnant and we encourage you to book early as the classes fill quickly. We suggest that you contact us when you book into the hospital. A fee may be payable when booking the classes, depending on your health fund. Your place will not be secured unless payment this received. N.B Fees are non- refundable, except for medical reasons.

For any queries or to register, phone Pindara Hospital on 07 5588 9888 and ask to speak to the Maternity Unit. Our receptionist is available to help you between 8 am-4pm Monday to Saturday.

Hospital tours

For those not attending antenatal classes we offer the opportunity to visit the Maternity Unit to familiarise yourselves. Regular tours are run every Saturday but we encourage you to call prior to attending to ascertain the start time. If this is not suitable please feel free to contact us to arrange a more convenient time. Tel 5588 9888.