before baby

Before your baby arrives


Many parents-to-be prepare for the arrival of their baby by attending NCT antenatal classes in Dundee, either alongside or in place of the NHS ones. These seek to give impartial, comprehensive information in an informal friendly setting. Topics covered include:

• pregnancy and the journey so far
• advice to help you choose where to have your baby
• what happens to your body during labour and birth
• relaxation, breathing, massage, different positions for labour and birth
• various methods of pain management
• ways in which partners can help
• life with a new baby, including a session with a breastfeeding counsellor
• what it might feel like to become parents

NCT classes are run in small groups of up to 8 women (partners are very welcome), ensuring that people are comfortable enough to ask questions, try out relaxation techniques, positions, massage, etc. Formats vary between 2 or 3 Saturdays and 6 week evening courses. For many people, the friends they make at their NCT class last for years.

As well as the course itself, a reunion should be organised to take place approximately 4-5 weeks after the last due date. Additionally, should the course be (fully) booked in advance of the commencement date, we will hope to organise a pre-course evening get together.

NCT antenatal teachers and breastfeeding counsellors undergo a thorough training with the NCT although they are not required to be medically qualified. They are expected to keep up to date with the latest developments in maternity care and must register with us every year. Their role is to offer support, information, practical skills and resources to help parents make informed choices for themselves and their babies. They do not offer medical advice and parents are asked to take any questions about the medical care of mother and baby to their midwife, health visitor or doctor.

There is a charge for the classes which doesn’t include membership of the charity.

Contact Caroline on 0844 243 6995 or via email bookings1b@nct.org.uk as soon as possible for more details or to book your place. Places are not confirmed until full payment is received and it’s probably best to attend at around 7 months.

Great reasons for attending antenatal classes include;
meet other mums-to-be and their partners
hear the answers to those embarrassing questions you thought noone else would ask
find out how to care for a new baby
find out more about labour and pain relief options
receive some emotional support
see what equipment may be used during labour