ParentLink's childbirth classes provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect during pregnancy and labour. Classes relaxed and informal, giving you a chance to ask as many questions as you like.

The way your labour and birth unfold will depend very much on what kind of care and experience you are looking for. Classes will explore the different options available as well as thoroughly covering the process of labour and birth.

Class topics may vary from one course series to the next, depending on the needs of the group. Generally the following will be covered:

what happens in a woman’s body and the baby during labour
how to know when labour is starting and to decide when to go to hospital
how to recognize each part of labour as it happens
tools for labour: massage, positioning, pressure techniques for comfort, heat, and more simple, straightforward breathing and relaxation skills to use during labour or whenever you need a bit of calm
what pain in labour is all about, pain relief options using drugs and other methods
epidurals – even if you’re not sure whether or not you’ll want pain relief, it’s helpful to know how epidurals work, how to use them for best effect, and how to minimize side-effects on you and your baby
the two basic approaches to care in pregnancy and birth
discovering what's important to you for pregnancy and birth
identifying your expectations for birth – even if you think you don't know what to expect!
birth plans: how to make a birth plan work for you instead of flying out the window at the first opportunity
making decisions without feeling confused, or overwhelmed
common situations you might face during pregnancy and birth
different types of labour – fast, slow, and everything in between!
what helps breastfeeding work well (and what makes it harder)
how to solve common difficulties with breastfeeding
what’s normal with a newborn when it comes to sleep, feeding, nappies, crying?
getting used to a baby in your life practical strategies for getting things done and getting enough sleep
identifying what’s important to you in parenting, and how you want to handle things in your family

ParentLink classes are tailored to the needs and concerns of the parents participating. We follow your lead, so no two classes are ever exactly the same.