SAMCL offers antenatal classes for pregnant women in several locations in the Counties Manukau region.

The classes are designed for women expecting their first baby but any pregnant woman is free to attend if they wish.

Ideally, these should be attended at or before 30 weeks gestation and it is expected the women attending will bring their partner or a support person.

The classes take around 12 hours to complete, spread over four weeks. 

Class Content:

Week One:

• The last three months of pregnancy
• Keeping healthy
• Your baby’s development
• The onset of labour

Week Two:

• Normal labour and birth
• Self help and pain relief
• The role of your support person
• Your options for birth

Week Three:

• More about your birth – what if you need special help?
• Prematurity
• Induction
• Epidurals
• Caesarean Birth
• Assisted Delivery

Week Four:

• After baby is born – the first few days
• Breastfeeding
• Parenting skills

In addition, those attending the classes have the opportunity to attend a guided tour of the maternity unit at Middlemore Hospital , if they wish.

There are special classes available for young (20 or under) mothers.

The Educators
The educators are all either experienced midwives with training in adult education or trained childbirth educators.

Fees
The classes are free – there is no charge to attend.

Booking
It is essential to book for the classes and we recommend booking at least four weeks in advance.

To book, please call SAMCL on (09) 263 4012