Why Antenatal Classes Matter

Pregnancy is such an amazing time but let’s be honest, it's a little overwhelming too. Between the endless questions ('How will I know when I am in labour?' 'When will I call the midwives' 'How will I cope with contractions' 'What do I actually do with a newborn once we’re home?'), it’s normal to feel a mix of joy and nerves. And that’s exactly where our antenatal classes come in. Our antenatal classes give you the chance to ask questions, practice newborn skills like swaddling and using a sling, as well as meeting others and starting to build a community around you.

Knowledge = Confidence

The unknown can feel scary, especially when it comes to labour and birth. But our Edinburgh antenatal classes take away some of that mystery. Led by practicing midwives, you’ll learn things like:

• What actually happens during each stage of labour

• Pain relief options (from breathing techniques to medical ones)

• What your partner can actually do to help when the big day arrives

• All kinds of birth (not just Plan A)

When you understand what’s going on, you’re more likely to feel calm, in control, and ready to make decisions that are right for you.

Practical Tips You’ll Actually Use

These classes aren’t just about sitting and listening. We have loads of group activities, lots of breaks and if you book antenatal classes with us, we also included our two hour active birth workshop too. You'll practice real-life skills, like:

• Breathing and relaxation exercises to use during contractions

• Positions that can make labour easier

• The basics of swaddling, feeding, and soothing your baby

• Tips for your own recovery after birth

And trust me, when you’re in the middle of a tough contraction or trying to calm your baby at 2 a.m., you’ll be so glad you practiced.

It’s a Win for Partners Too

If you’ve got a partner, antenatal classes are amazing for them as well. They’ll walk away knowing:

• How to be a calm, comforting presence during your labour

• Massage and movement tips

• How to get hands-on with baby care from day one

It’s a great way for both of you to feel like a team—and not like one person’s doing all the work while the other feels lost. We have a great blog post for birth partners here too.

Building a Community

Another bonus if you come to our antenatal classes? The awesome people you’ll meet. Pregnancy can feel a bit lonely if your friends aren’t in the same boat or your family aren't near. In our Edinburgh antenatal classes, you’re surrounded by other expectant parents who totally get what you’re going through. Some of those connections even turn into lifelong friendships (and built-in playdate buddies down the road!).

Prepping for Life After Birth

Whilst the birth of your baby is such an important day, the fun truly begins in the following days and months. Our classes don't just focus on labour and birth. We are really keen to make sure you feel super confident and calm about the early days with your newborn. Our classes include topics such as:

• Breastfeeding and bottle-feeding tips

• Safe sleep practices

• How to read your baby’s cues (yes, those little cries all mean something!)

• The emotional ups and downs of early parenthood

It’s like a sneak peek at what’s coming—so it doesn’t all hit you at once when you’re home with your baby.

The Bottom Line

No class can prepare you for everything, but our antenatal classes give you a solid foundation of knowledge, skills, and support. They help replace fear with confidence, and they remind you that you’re not in this alone.

If you’re expecting a baby, signing up for a class is one of the best gifts you can give yourself (and your partner). You’ll walk out not just more informed—but more ready, more supported, and more excited to meet your little one.

Why not drop us a line and say hello?

We would love to hear from you.

hello@growandgather.co.uk

@growandgatherbirth