Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond
Midwife-led antenatal classes in Bedfordshire providing support, knowledge and confidence for your journey into parenthood
Why choose our classes?
Preparing for a baby is about more than the birth - it’s about understanding your body, making informed choices and feeling ready for the transition into parenthood.
At Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond you’ll develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to move through each stage; from staying well in pregnancy and understanding labour and birth, to the practical realities and emotional shifts of caring for a newborn.
Our Bedfordshire based antenatal classes are kept small to create a relaxed, interactive experience. You’ll learn in a supportive down-to-earth setting with opportunities for discussion, hands-on practice and reassurance throughout.
What’s included?
The course runs over 5 weeks and includes 12 hours of face to face teaching, access to a cohort Whatsapp group, goody bag and a postnatal reunion.
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This session will help you get ready for birth, both physically and mentally. You’ll learn about the stages of labour, the physiology behind them and ways to support your body through movement, environment and mindset. By the end, you’ll have practical tools to stay calm, confident and informed in any birth setting.
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Learn about your pain relief options in labour, including breathing, movement and medical options. We’ll discuss common interventions, when they’re used and how to make informed decisions if things change. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of your rights and choices, helping you feel confident and in control.
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A supportive practical session exploring the time just after birth and your baby’s first hours. You’ll learn the essentials of newborn care, including feeding options (breast, bottle or mixed), nappy changing, bathing and how to navigate those firsts with confidence.
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This 2-hour baby and child first aid class will cover CPR, choking, bumps, burns, breaks, bleeding and more. This class will give you the peace of mind to care for your baby with confidence.
(This session is run by Mini First Aid and the date may be changed depending on bookings).
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This session focuses on the realities of the early days after birth, including physical recovery, emotional wellbeing, identity and life with a newborn. We’ll also introduce practical hypnobirthing-based techniques, such as breathing and relaxation, to help you stay relaxed and calm and support your recovery.
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Many people find the most valuable part of antenatal classes is the connections you make and this is change to build on that and support each other beyond the course. Also a great excuse for a sit down and cake!
Your Questions, Answered
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This is your choice, but I would recommend attending when you’re around 24-34 weeks pregnant so that you can cover everything before your baby arrives.
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To keep the groups personal and relaxed, each course has a maximum of 10 couples.
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The course is suitable for all birth preferences. As a midwife I have many years of experience supporting families in all birth settings and your choices are fully supported.
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You are absolutely welcome to attend on your own and single parents are offered discounted rates, please reach out for further details.
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Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond are in-depth, evidence-based, small group classes, which are midwife-led and include Baby and Child First Aid. You’ll gain confidence and skills through support and evidence-based information.
Our antenatal course is designed to give you honest guidance on pregnancy, labour, birth and life with your newborn - all led by an experienced midwife who knows how the maternity system works.
We know this can feel like a lot to take in. That’s why we go beyond ‘what might happen’ and help you understand your choices, how to navigate the NHS and what really supports you during labour, birth and the postnatal period. Think of it as real-life preparation, with support every step of the way.
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At Ampthill Methodist Church, Dunstable Street, MK45 2JS.
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There is a small car park and street parking.
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You can bring a cushion or birthing ball if that would make sitting more comfortable, otherwise just bring yourselves and any questions you may have.
Refreshments are provided, but please bring anything specific you would like.