Pregnancy: Prenatal classes

Prenatal classes are the perfect place to ask questions about pregnancy and bringing home a newborn.

What are the benefits of prenatal classes?

Prenatal classes aren’t compulsory, but they are highly recommended, especially for first-time pregnancies. Find out why.

• Group prenatal classes help future parents feel more confident and less anxious about pregnancy and labour.
• They provide valuable information so that future parents can make informed choices about the birth of their baby.
• They encourage fathers and non-birthing partners to play an active role in the pregnancy.
• When classes are held in person, they allow future parents to form friendships and create a social network.
• They can positively impact the health of both the mother and baby. For instance, the information provided in a prenatal class may encourage a mother to attend all her recommended pregnancy follow-ups or try breastfeeding.

Where are prenatal classes held?

Below are the four main resources offering prenatal classes in regions across Quebec:

Your local CLSC

In many regions, CLSCs offer prenatal classes online. Sometimes they include a virtual Q&A period, where the parents are encouraged to ask questions.

In some regions, CLSCs still offer in-person classes. However, they are occasionally reserved for at-risk individuals. In some cases, private classes can be arranged.

Prenatal classes are taught by various health professionals, such as nurses, nutritionists, kinesiologists, and social workers.

Some CLSCs also produce pre-recorded educational videos that can be viewed online.

In most cases, these services are completely free. To find out what services are available in your area, contact your local CLSC.

Community organizations

Many family community organizations and perinatal resources centres offer group and private prenatal classes. The instructor may be a nurse, perinatal counselor, birth attendant, or other trained professional. Some parts of the class may even be led by a fitness trainer or yoga teacher.

Many organizations offer these classes for free. Others require that you pay their annual membership fee (usually $10 to $25), which gives you access to all their services. Some organizations only offer paid prenatal classes. That said, they may charge parents on a sliding scale depending on their needs and financial situation.

Private prenatal classes are also available, generally priced at $100 per class.

Birthing centres

Mothers and families who receive follow-up care at a birthing centre can attend free prenatal classes taught by a midwife.

Doulas

A doula may offer private, semi-private, or group prenatal classes. Depending on the type of class you want, you’ll need to budget between $250 and $450. Some doulas and birth attendants issue receipts that you can submit to your private insurance provider for a partial refund.

When should I start taking prenatal classes?

Depending on the format and subjects covered, the start date may vary. For example, prenatal classes that touch on nutrition can start as early as the 8th week of pregnancy. Classes that focus on adapting to parenthood are usually offered during the second trimester, whereas those that discuss childbirth and breastfeeding often begin in the 30th week of pregnancy.

As start dates vary from place to place, contact your local CLSC or community organization as soon as you become pregnant.

What topics are covered?

Course content can vary from place to place, but the following key topics are always covered by the instructor:

• The stages of pregnancy
• Recommended lifestyle habits (diet, exercise, etc.)
• Preparing for childbirth, pain management, and possible medical interventions
• Welcoming and caring for a newborn
• Preparing for breastfeeding
• Bringing baby home and your mental health
• Adapting to the role of parent and co-parent
• Preparing siblings for the arrival of a new baby

Can fathers and non-birthing partners attend?

Fathers and partners are encouraged to accompany the expecting mother. Prenatal classes will give them a better sense of what’s ahead and help them prepare for childbirth and the baby’s arrival.

These classes can be especially beneficial if the fathers and partners have the opportunity to talk to one another and share their experiences. Some prenatal classes are even taught by men to better address the concerns of fathers-to-be.

Couples who attend together will also be guided through important conversations. The instructor will suggest topics to discuss together, such as your respective expectations, how your life will change once the baby arrives, and how you plan to share parental responsibilities (e.g., parental leave, household tasks).

Things to keep in mind

• Prenatal classes are useful for expecting mothers and fathers. They help women feel more confident and less anxious about pregnancy and labour, among other benefits.
• Prenatal classes are offered in group, semi-private, and private settings. They can be online or in person. Some are fee-based, while others are free.
• As start dates can vary, it’s best to find out when prenatal classes begin as soon as you become pregnant.

Scientific review: Marie-Claude Dufour, Executive Director of the Réseau des Centres de ressources périnatales du Québec Research and copywriting:The Naître et grandir team Updated: July 2023

Photo: GettyImages/Rawpixel