Choosing Classes and Support in the Antenatal and Postnatal Sector

Choosing Classes and Support in the Antenatal and Postnatal Sector

Finding the Right Registered Professional for You

Antenatal and postnatal education and support can help you prepare for birth, feeding and early parenthood, and provide practical or emotional support as your family adjusts.

There is no single “right” class, practitioner or service. The best choice depends on the support you need, how and where you would like it delivered, your budget and what is available locally. Always check that the professional appears on the FEDANT National Register in the appropriate registered area of practice.

What Type of Support Are You Looking For?

Antenatal Education

Preparation for labour, birth, informed choices, birth partner support and early parenthood.

Breastfeeding and Infant Feeding Support

Preparation for feeding, responsive feeding, common concerns and appropriate ongoing support.

Doula Support

Practical, emotional and informational support during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period, according to the doula’s registered area of practice.

Postnatal Practitioner Support

Practical and emotional support following birth, including recovery, adjustment to parenthood and caring for a new baby.

Specialist Classes and Workshops

Focused education covering subjects such as newborn care, safer sleep, caesarean birth, multiple pregnancy or postnatal wellbeing.

Related Antenatal and Postnatal Services

Other services within the professional’s qualifications, competence and registered area of practice.

How Classes and Support May Be Provided

Check before choosing: Confirm that the professional’s FEDANT National Registration and registered area of practice cover the class, support or service being offered.

Provider

NHS Services

Availability and the type of support offered vary between maternity and local health services.

  • Services are usually free.
  • Support may be provided face to face or online.
  • Ask your midwife or healthcare team what is available and how to access it.

Independent Professionals and Private Services

These may offer a wider choice of dates, approaches, locations or appointment formats.

  • A fee will normally apply.
  • Support may be provided in groups or one to one.
  • Ask what is included and whether concessions are available.

Delivery

Group Classes

Group learning can provide opportunities to meet other parents and discuss shared questions.

  • Ask about group size and accessibility.
  • Check whether partners or supporters may attend.
  • Confirm the subjects and teaching hours included.

One-to-One Support

Individual sessions may provide more flexibility or support tailored to your circumstances.

  • Ask what the appointment will cover.
  • Confirm the location, duration and full cost.
  • Check whether follow-up support is included.

Online and Hybrid Services

Live online sessions provide interaction, while recorded learning may offer greater flexibility.

  • Check whether you can ask questions.
  • Ask how long materials remain available.
  • Confirm any technical requirements.

Format or Focus

Specialist Workshops

Some professionals provide focused sessions alongside broader education or support.

  • Infant feeding or newborn care.
  • Hypnobirthing and relaxation.
  • Caesarean birth or birth after caesarean.
  • Multiple pregnancy, pelvic health or postnatal wellbeing.

Intensive or Weekend Courses

Longer sessions over one or two days may suit people who cannot attend weekly.

  • Check the amount of teaching time.
  • Ask about breaks and opportunities for discussion.
  • Consider whether the pace suits your learning style.

Refresher Education

Shorter courses can revisit key information for parents who have had a baby before.

  • Useful when guidance or circumstances have changed.
  • May focus on a previous difficult experience.
  • Can include sibling and family preparation.

When Should You Make Contact?

Explore Early

Popular classes and professionals may become fully booked, so consider your options before you need the service to begin.

Think About Timing

The most suitable time will depend on whether you need antenatal education, feeding support, doula support or postnatal care.

Choose What Works

Ask the professional when they recommend beginning and whether they offer flexible, urgent or follow-up support.

Questions to Ask Before Booking

Who will provide the class or service? What qualifications do they hold, what is their five digit National Register entry number, and does their registered area of practice cover the support being offered?
What is included in the class, appointment or service, and what is not included?
Is the information balanced, evidence informed and regularly reviewed?
Are partners, relatives, friends or other supporters welcome?
How many sessions, appointments or teaching hours are included?
What are the group size, location, delivery format and accessibility arrangements?
What is the full cost and the cancellation, transfer or refund policy?
Is follow-up support available, and are there limits on how or when it may be accessed?

If You Are Attending Antenatal Classes

Pregnant employees are entitled to paid time off for antenatal care. This can include antenatal or parenting classes when they have been recommended by a doctor or midwife.

Rights for partners are different. Speak with your employer about the arrangements that apply.

Read the GOV.UK Guidance

Please remember: Education and non-clinical support can help you prepare, make informed choices and access appropriate services, but they do not replace maternity care, medical assessment or individual advice from a midwife, doctor or other regulated healthcare professional.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Search the FEDANT National Register to find a professional and check that their registered area of practice covers the class, support or service you require.

Find a Registered ProfessionalHow to Check a Registration
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