Sadly during these unprecedented times, the ability to attend these classes in person is restricted meaning that many families worry that they are missing out on the opportunity to use these precious moments well.
Fortunately, thanks to the wonder of the internet, these groups have been made available to as many new parents as possible.
Here are 8 fantastic options for antenatal classes for mums-to-be and new mums in the region.
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1. Free prenatal fitness videos
There are a huge range of online pregnancy fitness videos online to help women both stay fit during their pregnancy and also to prepare for the labour and birth ahead of them. The NHS have provided a free video with gentle exercise designed for pre and post-natal here: www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhs-fitness-studio/prenatal-and-postnatal-exercise/ Photo: .
2. The Happy Birth Club
The Happy Birth Club is another branch of hypnobirthing, offering their courses online in real time, allowing you to receive information, ask questions and meet other pregnant couples, all from the comfort of your sofa using Zoom. Visit: www.thehappybirthclub.co.uk Photo: .
3. The Positive Birth Movement
The Positive Birth Movement is a global network of antenatal groups connecting families by social media and online information. Even before lockdown, they were perfectly positioned to help new parents online. They have a selection of pregnancy and birth groups around the world that anyone can join, and have recently set up a Facebook support group specific to those aiming for a positive birth during Covid-19. Photo: .
4. NCT live online classes
NCT can feel like a lifeline for new mums, often helping them to forge lifelong friendships. In quick response to the social distancing guidelines, they launched live courses online that are interactive and local so that parents could build a community support network in the early days. You can find more information on these courses on Zoom here: www.nct.org.uk/courses-workshops Photo: .