Our antenatal classes
Wesley Maternity offers the following antenatal classes in Brisbane, facilitated by our experienced midwives and lactation consultants, to help you and your family prepare for the birth of your child:
Parents-to-be Program
Our Parents-to-be Program is an antenatal class that provides valuable education and tips on preparing for labour and the arrival and care of your newborn. It is aimed at first-time parents, however, existing parents who are expecting a new addition to their family are also welcome. We recommend that you start this program before 36 weeks into pregnancy.
Our small-group classes are interactive, with hands-on activities. They are facilitated by one of our experienced midwives and include an extensive tour of the maternity ward, the birth suite, and operating theatre (where the majority of caesarean sections are performed).
Topics include:
- Why labour starts.
- When to come to hospital.
- Extensive tour of birth suites and postnatal maternity.
- Three stages of normal labour and birth.
- Pain cycle – coping strategies for pain.
- Induction of labour.
- Caesarean section (procedure and post-operative care).
- Unexpected outcomes – including forceps, vacuum and sick and premature babies.
- Characteristics of a newborn baby.
- The first five days – postnatal ward routine.
- Settling techniques, sleep patterns and SIDS.
- An introduction to breastfeeding.
- Perinatal mental health for the family.
- Community support groups and resources.
The Parents-to-be Program costs $315, including light refreshments. Please advise of specific dietary requirements when booking.
Extended Breastfeeding Class
Our Extended Breastfeeding Class is a dedicated three-hour antenatal class facilitated by our Lactation Consultants for both new mothers-to-be and existing mothers who have had challenges breastfeeding with previous babies. This class expands on the Parents-to-be Program, and provides more in-depth information to further your understanding of and skills in breastfeeding. There is no prerequisite for coming to this class and you are welcome to attend at any stage of your pregnancy.
Topics covered include:
- How to position and latch your baby.
- How you know your baby is well latched.
- What to expect during the first week.
- Babies’ hunger cues.
- How often your baby needs to feed.
- Health benefits of breastfeeding for you and your baby.
- Natural patterns of breastfeeding.
- The benefits of rooming in.
- Challenges that may arise and how to manage them.
- Community support for breastfeeding parents.
- Feeding multiple babies (if required).
The Extended Breastfeeding Class costs $135, including light refreshments. Please advise us of any specific dietary requirements when booking.
Book a class
You must book your admission into Wesley Maternity before booking your antenatal class. To express your interest in a class, please complete the form below. We recommend you contact us early in your pregnancy, as places fill quickly.