Rockhampton Hospital Maternity Unit has reintroduced antenatal classes, supporting expectant families to prepare for parenthood.
During the COVID-19 lockdowns video classes were introduced, replacing face-to-face sessions.
They’re now back on Tuesday nights, with a four-week program starting on the first Tuesday of every month.
Experienced midwife Amy Towle is thrilled to deliver the classes, saying they are an important part of antenatal care.
“It’s the best point of contact for education and for women preparing for birth,” she said.
“Classes provide an opportunity to ask questions and participate, and to meet other parents.”
Four weeks of structured topics provide education and advice to women and their partners.
First week focuses on labour. What it’s like, different stages, what to expect, what to bring to hospital, what to do at home to cope.
Second week is birth – how it works, pain-relief options, what happens when things don’t go to plan.
Third week is about feeding – information about formula and breast feeding, and Dad’s Group representatives attend to speak to fathers.
Fourth week is post-natal, what’s normal for mum and bub, what to expect, how to look after yourself, support that’s available, how to bath a baby, how to wrap a baby.
The classes are offered to a small number of women from 28 to 36 weeks’ pregnant. To register, ask at antenatal clinic, or enquire at the Maternity Unit reception.