Frequently Asked Questions
General
What makes Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond Essex Antenatal courses different from other providers?
All courses will be taught by myself, Amy, a fully qualified midwife with over 17 year’s experience looking after the women and babies of South Essex. I have worked as a midwife delivering babies in the hospital setting, both low risk and high risk, and have also worked, for many years, as a community midwife delivering babies at home.
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During my time as a community midwife, I have provided many NHS antenatal courses as well as hypnobirthing courses.
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All of this means you will have an experienced professional on hand for all your questions, who has practical experience of delivering over 500+ babies and caring for 1000's of women and babies during pregnancy, labour and following the birth.
What stage of my pregnancy should I start attending an Antenatal course?
Antenatal courses should be started from 28 weeks and be completed by week 37.
This means the course should be started by week 33 at the latest.
Can Amy give me specific advice on my pregnancy?
Although I can give you general advice regarding pregnancy, birth and caring for a new-born I cant give specific advice regarding your health and care. Any specific questions or advice you require on your own current pregnancy and wellbeing should be directed to your Community Midwife, GP, Obstetrician or other appropriate health professional.
How many people will be attending the course?
Courses are limited to a maximum of 8 mothers-to-be and their partner/birth partner making a total of 16 people. Classes are kept small to ensure their is more time to connect with the other expecting parents, ask questions and get to know each other in a less intimidating environment.
Who can attend the course?
Expecting mothers (from 28 - 33 weeks) and their partners/birth partner.
Partners/Birth partners play an important role, especially during the pregnancy, birth and new-born stage. We do ask that, where possible, the same birth partner attends each session during the course so they get the
Do I need to bring anything with me to the course?
The quick answer is no, you don't need to bring anything to attend the course.
However, to make sure you are comfortable I do advice that if you have a cushion that helps your back when sitting or a favourite mug for a hot drink then please bring it along.
How is the course presented?
The whole course is 4 weeks long with one 2½ hr session each week.
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Each session is presented in person and each week will concentrate on specific topics with chances to ask questions. To aid in learning I will be using videos, group discussions and even a few games to make the sessions informative and fun.
Where is the Antenatal Class Held?
The centre has a large car park, as well as off-street parking available for customers attending the centre.
Please be careful not to park in the neighbouring company car parks when visiting. Fearnwood Products, the company next door to the centre, which is attached to the same building, have permit holder parking. If you park in their car park you will receive a parking fine.
If you are in doubt please check with reception.
Food and Drink
We ask that you don't bring any food or drink (except water) as refreshments will be supplied.
Recording
In the interest of respecting other attendees privacy no video or audio recordings should be made whilst in the conference room.
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The only exception will be official pictures or video taken by Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond which will only be taken with the permission of those included in the pictures/video.
What happens if I've missed a session?
We understand that situations can occur that may result in a client missing a session of the course. Currently we are unable to offer make up sessions as the session won’t be repeated until the following course starts (4 weeks later). If you miss a session or if you know you will not be able to attend a session then please contact us asap at info@BirthEssex.co.uk. We will be able to supply the handout for that week which will contain the basic information and if possible we may be able to help further.
Is the course suitable for 2nd/3rd time parents?
Antenatal courses are not just for first time parents. If your already a parent you will still benefit from refreshing your knowledge and making new friends at an antenatal course.
How do I pay for my course?
Currently payments for courses and services are made via BANK TRANSFER. The details for the bank transfer should be made available once you request/book your place.
If you have any issues then please contact us on Info@BirthEssex.co.uk
Refunds & Cancelations
For details on our refund and cancelation policy please read our Terms and Conditions.