Antenatal Classes

4 times per year in person

During the antenatal programme, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the science behind birth. You’ll learn how the womb works during labour, the vital role of hormones, and why creating the right environment for these hormones to flow can make such a difference to your birthing experience. Understanding what’s happening in your body can help you feel more connected, confident, and in control.

A key part of the course is addressing and releasing any fears or anxieties around birth. Many people carry worries that could be both conscious or subconscious about labour and parenthood. Through practical tools and gentle mind-body techniques, you’ll learn how to shift these fears, so they don’t interfere with your birth experience.

You’ll also explore the many choices available to you during pregnancy and birth. From different birth settings to pain relief options and everything in between. We will look at how to make informed decisions that feel right for you and your baby. This is your journey, and understanding your options will make you feel in control and confident.

The course also explores the powerful mind-body connection and how your thoughts, emotions, and physical responses are all linked during labour. You’ll discover how relaxation, breathwork, and visualisation can help you stay calm and focused, even if plans change.

Hypnobirthing techniques will be woven throughout the course, showing how they can support any kind of birth, whether that’s a home birth, hospital delivery, or caesarean. These methods aren’t about achieving a ‘perfect’ birth, but about helping you to stay grounded, informed, and in control, whatever path your labour takes.

Your birthing partner, if you have one, is a key part of this journey too. We’ll explore how they can best support you emotionally and practically, so they feel confident and ready to advocate for your choices. You’ll also gain insight into how the maternity system works, what to expect from your care team, and how to ask the right questions to feel fully supported throughout.

By the end of the programme, you’ll feel calm, confident, and in control, with a clear understanding of birth and practical tools to support you every step of the way.

Frequently asked questions around Antenatal Classes

What is an Antenatal Programme?
An antenatal programme is a complete birth preparation course that combines relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and evidence-based education to help you feel confident, informed, and in control during pregnancy and birth.

How does the Antenatal Programme work?
The programme helps you stay calm and relaxed by activating your body’s natural pain relief – endorphins – while reducing stress hormones. This leads to a more positive and comfortable birth experience.

Who Can Benefit from an Antenatal Programme?
Anyone who is pregnant! Whether you’re planning a home birth, hospital birth, C-section, or are undecided, this course will help you feel more in control, manage any fears, and make informed choices.

When Should I Start an Antenatal Programme?
It’s recommended to start between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, but you can begin at any stage. The earlier you start, the more time you’ll have to practise the techniques.

What Will I Learn in an Antenatal Programme?
You will learn relaxation and breathing techniques, how birth hormones work, and ways to create a positive birth environment. The course also covers the physiology of birth, how to manage labour, and practical tools to help you stay calm and in control.

How Long Does an Antenatal Programme Last?

Our antenatal programme runs for a total of 10 hours, either as a four-week course with one evening session per week or as an intensive weekend option.

Can My Partner Attend the Antenatal Classes?
Absolutely! Birth partners are encouraged to join, so they can learn how to support you during labour and birth, helping you both feel more confident and prepared.