The classes (all of which Lynda runs personally) cover:

• Antenatal period: pelvic floor exercises, perineal massage, exercise and nutrition
• All aspects of labour: early signs of labour, coping strategies, labour positions and pain relief (orthodox and self-help)
• Procedures for induction of labour, Ventouse deliveries, forceps deliveries and caesarean sections
• Caring for babies; including both breastfeeding and bottle-feeding
• Parental life after birth
• Making time for each other
• Accessing appropriate external support
• Relaxation and breathing; as coping strategies to help manage pain and stress during labour and in everyday situations.

Handouts are provided to support the topics covered and other matters such as a list of essentials which women will need to bring into the hospital.

Meeting the needs of new fathers is crucial.  Fathers should be closely involved in the antenatal process.  There will be opportunities for men to talk to each other and express their needs.  Practical suggestions will be offered to men about how to prepare themselves and how to support their partners.

The focus is on facilitating discussion and learning, with a strong interactive element.  Members of the class will receive balanced, researched-based and realistic information to enable them to reach informed decisions.

Lynda also provides Antenatal Preparation and Breastfeeding Support on a one-to-one basis via home visits.