How to choose the right antenatal educator in Derby

Amy
Jul 7
3 min read

When pregnant, birth can feel so far away. And then the weeks pass, and birth suddenly feels very real. You start researching for Antenatal Classes in Derby, and suddenly you're faced with yet more decisions to make. Which course is the best? Who seems like a teacher that I can relate to, feel safe with? Can I even make those dates?

There are many providers for Antenatal Education in Derby. Choosing the right person to lead you through this time can make a difference to how you feel towards birth.

Certification

Yes! Even antenatal educators are certified to ensure they teach you accurate information. Look out for FEDANT logos and numbers (to check the register). Here's mine on my website:

FEDANT also accredit midwives in the UK, so you know you can trust the mark. You can check out their register here.

Where a teacher has trained can also help inform your decision. Perhaps they trained with someone that you already follow, or like what they share. I trained with LushTums and you can check them out here. It's all worth checking out.

Antenatal Class Content

Of course, the content is something to consider. There are so many things to think about and know (and there'll be more things specific to your situation), about birth. Things that maybe don't get spoken about too much amongst friends and family.

Here are some things to consider:

Do they teach a wide range of information- from birth anatomy, coping techniques?
Do they help you how to make informed decisions?
Do they offer unbiased opinions on birth?
Is the course tailored to those in attendance? For example, if nobody is wanting a natural birth, is there more room to talk about caesarean birth?
Are there practical practices, like breathing, massage, baby care?

Teaching Style

Each person teaches differently. What suits you and your partner best may be different to the next couple. Do you want a more traditional, classroom style? Or a fun and interactive class? Each teacher will have their own unique personality to add into the mix. Following providers on social media is a good way to check them out beforehand.

Amy teaching antenatal education courses to couples in Derby

Group size and interaction

Now, everyone is different and there are pros and cons to each option- groups or private 1:1s. If you'd like a group, do you want it more as a way to find some new friends with some birth prep in there, large or small groups? Or would you prefer private 1:1 classes, where there is just you and your partner/s?

It's good to consider what you really want out of these classes the most. It may be great to have large groups but your questions may get lost as there's little time to ask them.

As well, private 1:1s can be tailored to your situation, and you get to ask whatever questions you'd like and get them answered, but it also means you don't meet others.

Of course, there are no right or wrong decisions, just those that feel good for you.

Cost

This is a biggie, and costs can vary quite a bit. Also, the length of the course although most are generally 10-12 hours long. The way the course is split can vary. There is often little flexibility in group courses, something perhaps to consider if you work shifts or your work varies each week.

Look for different payment options, or ask! Some are pretty flexible if you ask and explain your circumstances.

Everyone is in a different position financially, therefore, options will differ for all. A lot of the time, what you pay depends on how much you value something like birth.

Conclusion on Choosing the Right Antenatal Education Course

Choosing the right antenatal education course isn't about just ticking boxes- it's about choosing the right person that will guide you through this transformative experience. The person that will make you feel confident, listened to, and all with compassion.

Just as I will always encourage you to trust your instincts through your pregnancy, birth and parenting journey, your instincts in choosing the right educator to support you and your partner is just as important.

Check out my antenatal education course, it's filled with evidence- based information, and a wealth of practical tools to help you through childbirth.

Good luck and best wishes for the birth of your child :)