NHS Antenatal Classes???

[Verity2011]

Just wondering if anyone knew if the NHS offer antenatal classes as standard in all counties? OH and I keep being told to sign up for NCT classes which go really quickly. We're happy to do this if it's the only option as we really want to go to antenatal classes - but the bill we've been given for a weekend course is £230, which whilst we can just manage if push comes to shove we would just like to know if there are other options. I don't see my midwife for another week and a half and just wondering if people knew a little bit more than me about the NHS options for antenatal classes.

 

[l_maclean]

Not 100% sure - but i think from what I've read on hear that different places have different availability.

My area has 4 2hour sessions - but they are 10am-12pm on a monday morning - so no chance DH can get all of that off work - so we've been looking at NCT as well.
xxx

 

[AugustMum]

I think most areas offer the classes. I lived in 2 areas while pregnant and got offered classes at both. Mine were 3 sessions that lasted 2 hours in the evening. They dont offer NCT classes in my town because they dont see the point because our NHS ones are so good.

 

[DeeLT]

I've booked NCT and there are 9 2.5/3 hour sessions (including one for breastfeeding). It was expensive (£329) but I figured I'd get to meet other mums as well. My hospital hasn't mentioned NHS courses yet ....

x

ooohhh, there is also a 2 hours post birth session on top of the main sessions too....

 

[LoopyLouize]

Sorry for my ignorance.. But does the midwife usually mention it to you at one of your appointments? I have not been offered or told about any of these classes! Don't even know what they are!! x

 

[l_maclean]

I asked at my 16 week one. xxx

 

[Coolbeans2010]

We get 3 antenatal classes on the NHS each 2.5 hrs in the evening which is great cos hubby can come too. I would like to do NCT but we just can't afford the £230

 

[LoopyLouize]

I asked at my 16 week one. xxx

Cheers hun, I will ask her at my next appointment x