SingaporeMotherhood | Pregnancy
July 2018
7 Antenatal Classes in Singapore that’ll take you from Bump to Baby with Ease
If you are a first-time parent-to-be, attending antenatal classes can help clear doubts, ease worries, and offer you confidence to take on your new role and face the new, kid-included future with confidence.
After the joy of the witnessing two lines appearing on your test kit, you may feel overwhelmed by your new physical state and the gazillion questions that come along with it. Why am I feeling exhausted all the time? How can I alleviate my backaches? Can I continue to have my daily caffeine fix? What can I expect in the delivery room? What are my options for pain relief?
That’s where antenatal classes come in handy. In Singapore, there is a wide variety of antenatal classes for jittery parents-to-be to choose from – from holistic hospital-based classes to active birth classes that focus on breathing and pushing techniques, to lactation sessions to prepare you for breastfeeding. Generally, you can start antenatal classes between weeks 16 and 20 of pregnancy.
While antenatal classes are especially helpful for first-time mothers, even mothers with experience may benefit from a refresher class or two. But there is no one-size-fits-all, so here are our favourite antenatal classes that will not only help you prep for the trials of pregnancy but also ensure that you thrive during labour, birth, and beyond.
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If you Prefer a Medical Approach…
All the maternity hospitals in Singapore offer antenatal classes and you don’t have to give birth at the hospital to attend one. That said, attending classes at the hospital you’ve chosen to deliver at can mean discounted prices, additional perks, and greater convenience. Here are two of our favourites:
1. Antenatal Programme by KKH Women’s and Children’s Hospital
Run by the hospital’s Patient Education Centre, this nine-session programme takes you and your partner through various pregnancy-related concerns, prepares you for labour, and provides post-delivery baby care tips. Classes are conducted by KKH’s own professional team of qualified dieticians, pharmacists, physiotherapists, parentcraft nurses, and lactation consultants.
Fees: $200 (Weekdays) and $230 (Weekends) for KKH patients; $270 (Weekdays) and $300 (Weekends) for non-KKH patients
Where: KKH Women’s and Children’s Hospital
More information: Call 6394 1268, email [email protected] or visit www.kkh.com.sg
2. Childbirth Education Course by Thomson Medical
If you’re a busy working mother who just wants a quick overview, Thomson Medical just launched a One-Day Intensive Course that covers key topics like pain relief and labour, breastfeeding, and baby care. But for those who prefer a more comprehensive course, the four-week course features more super-charged sessions, such as coping with pregnancy discomforts, breathing techniques, feeding methods, and how to cope with a colicky baby. Both include a complimentary Doctor’s Talk session (topics vary) as well. Furthermore, classes take place often and at super convenient locations!
Fees: Varies from $243 to $356
Where: Various locations like Oasia Hotel, Bove at Suntec City and Balestier Hill Shopping Centre
More information: Call 6350 8818, email [email protected] or visit www.thomsonbaby.com
(See also: Hospital Maternity Tours in Singapore)
If you are into Alternative Labour Techniques…
For many mothers-to-be, labour is the top concern as they hit the third trimester. In Singapore, besides standard breathing techniques, you can also explore other ways to relax your mind and body for birthing.
3. Bradley Method™ of Husband-Coached Childbirth Course by ParentLink
What stands out about this 12-session childbirth course is that it encourages expecting fathers to be highly involved from the get-go. The goal is a natural, drug-free birth, and the men get to learn how to be their wives’ labour coach! Besides learning about pregnancy-related changes from the coach’s point of view, fathers also learn, via role-playing and rehearsals, how to respond to their partners during labour and birth.
Fees: $595 per couple
Where: 18 Hougang Avenue 3
More information: Call 9012 0071, email [email protected] or visit www.parentlink.org
4. HypnoBirthing® Childbirth Education Class by Birth Discovery
The ideal state of mind makes all the difference during childbirth. Based on the Mongan method, HypnoBirthing® prepares your mind and body for a drug-free birthing experience. You work your way towards a positive birth experience with weekly deep relaxation practices. Meanwhile, your husband will be actively involved in the process of gently welcoming your baby. The best time to attend this six-session course is when you’re between 20 and 35 weeks pregnant.
Fees: $680 per couple (group, small intimate class)
Where: The Mind Sanctuary, 10 Winstedt Rd, Block A #01-04, Singapore 227977
More information: Whatsapp 6100 9863 / 9863 7867 or visit www.birthdiscovery.com
(See also: HypnoBirthing®: A Calmer Birth)
If you want to Prepare for the After-birth…
Pregnancy is tough, but parenthood is tougher! Many antenatal classes include segments on baby care, with tips and tricks to help you gain an edge while you’re still ‘sane’ (and not sleep-deprived!). Learn all you can before you pop!
5. Antenatal Group Class by FourTrimesters
Taught by practicing birth doulas, this six-session course will guide you through pregnancy, labour and birth, as well as the “fourth trimester” after-birth care of baby’s needs and communication. There is a strong focus on the art and science of breastfeeding. Topics like infant sleep, baby wearing, and even baby-proofing your marriage are also covered. What we love: you’ll be included in a weekly email list and Whatsapp group chats where you can learn more together with other parents-to-be. So it’s knowledge, support and camaraderie rolled into one comprehensive course.
Fees: $895 per couple
Where: 33 Taman Warna
More information: Call 9664 4565 or email [email protected] or visit www.fourtrimesters.com
6. Central Bumps Antenatal Course by Beloved Bumps
Taught by a qualified UK midwife, this four-week course covers general topics about labour and birth as well as baby-care tips. There’s also a fitness component, where you get to learn prenatal and postnatal exercises with a personal trainer. You’ll also be able to mingle with other parents-to-be and form friendships that will support you through pregnancy and beyond. There’s even a “Ladies’ Lunch” and a postnatal reunion where all new mums and babies can meet!
Fees: $750
Where: Collision 8 in High Street Centre
More information: Call 8809 8623, email [email protected] or visit www.belovedbumps.sg
7. Dunstan Baby Language: Breastfeeding and Newborn Care Course by MummyBabyCare
As your EDD (expected date of delivery) draws closer, you may fret more about your ability to cope with your newborn’s everyday needs. This class teaches you how to decode your baby’s cries. With this skill, you can tell when he or she is hungry, tired, gassy, experiencing lower wind pain, or just feeling uncomfortable. You’ll also get to pick up baby care tips such as swaddling techniques. Great for mothers-to-be in their last trimester of pregnancy, or new parents who need a little more help to settle their babies.
Fees: $80 per hour
Where: Private consultations take place in the comfort of your home
More information: Call 9228 9782, email [email protected] or visit www.mummybabycare.com.sg
(See also: Hospital Maternity Packages in Singapore)
Header image: Daiga Ellaby on Unsplash
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