A WINWICK mum is hoping to help mums-to-be enjoy their pregnancy after launching new antenatal classes in Warrington.
Antenatal and hypnobirthing instructor Claire Morris decided to relaunch her classes after seeing the disruption to the sector through coronavirus.
Due to the pandemic, lockdowns, restrictions and staff shortages, very few classes are currently available on the NHS.
To fill this void, she is hoping to help future mums feel more confident and in control of their labour, as well as helping dads-to-be cope during the pregnancy.
“I have taught antenatal and hypnobirthing classes for more than six years, but Covid restrictions meant it was difficult to facilitate group courses, and understandably people were wary about signing up,” said Claire, who owns The Birth and Baby Company.
“Antenatal classes are an important way of preparing for childbirth, however due to the pandemic and staff shortages, there very few classes currently available by the NHS.
Mum keen to help mums-to-be by launching antenatal classes after Covid disruption
“With this in mind and with the lifting of restrictions, I felt it was important to be able to offer classes to mums-to-be in Warrington so they could access the face-to-face support you gain from attending classes and prepare for their upcoming labour.”
The parent course gives information on what to expect during labour and birth, as well as the different interventions that may be suggested.
It also covers breathing techniques, positions for labour and ways to prepare for birth, on top of the practicalities of looking after your baby once they arrive.
“Lots of people do not think they need to attend antenatal classes or really prepare for their labour – I was one of those when I was pregnant with my first child – but actually understanding what can happen in labour can really help you feel more confident and in control,” Claire added.
“Birth cannot be controlled to a large extent, but if we understand our options in labour and what the various interventions are, that can help us make informed decisions on the day, and it is that that can give the sense of control.”
The next classes will be held on March 6 and 13 at Winwick Leisure Centre, and for more information, visit bit.ly/birth-prep-and-babycare
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here