Getting pregnant can be quite exciting for both parents, but only the carrier goes for antenatal classes most of the time. Of course, the other partner can be supportive in many ways during the pregnancy. However, you may wonder…
Can Partners Go To Antenatal Classes Together?
There is no rule against partners going to antenatal classes together. In fact, some clinics suggest that pregnant women attend classes with their partners once in a while. There are clinics that also hold separate classes for partners of pregnant women side-by-side antenatal classes for the mom-to-be.
Whether it’s the first baby coming or you’ve had others before, it is always good to have the support of your partner. As you read further, you’ll learn more about attending antenatal classes as a couple and other ways your partner can be supportive in your journey.
Why Should Dads Attend Antenatal Classes?
The main reason dads should attend antenatal classes is that they need to know how to care for their partner, especially when pregnant. They will also get an opportunity to bond with her and share experiences.
They need to understand what is happening to their partner and what kind of changes she might experience. Plus, they can help out by being there for her at home and making sure she gets everything she needs.
If you are wondering whether you and your partner should attend antenatal classes together, here are some things you should consider:
1) She doesn’t want to go alone – If she wants to go to classes with you, then it would be best to take her along. The two of you can discuss any concerns you have about the classes and talk through anything that could possibly happen. It is not necessary for her to go to classes on her own.
2) You don’t want to miss out on the class – Even though you are not pregnant, you still need to make sure you go to the classes. This way, you won’t miss out on any information that you need to know.
3) You think it is unnecessary – You may feel like it isn’t necessary for you to go to classes. But, this is something that you really shouldn’t skip out on. Going to classes is one way to prepare yourself for the birth of your child.
4) You aren’t ready yet – Some couples wait until after the birth of their first child to start attending classes. Others prefer to wait until after the second child. Whatever works for you is fine. Just remember to keep up with your prenatal care, so you are prepared for labor.
Do Antenatal Classes Teach Spouses to be Supportive?
Antenatal classes teach spouses to be supportive. When you attend classes together, you can ask questions about your partner’s health, nutrition, exercise, and emotional well-being. You can also discuss possible complications that may arise during pregnancy.
You can even ask questions about what to expect from the delivery process. By learning these things ahead of time, you can better prepare yourself for the arrival of your new bundle of joy. You may also learn to be more involved in the pregnancy journey as you see other pregnant people and what they go through.
What Are Birth Classes For Dads?
Just as moms have to attend antenatal classes, dads have the option of attending birth classes. With birth classes, a father can be adequately prepared to support their partners throughout pregnancy and beyond.
Birth classes are designed to help men become more comfortable with childbirth. These classes are usually held in conjunction with antenatal classes. In addition to teaching husbands about childbirth, these classes are also meant to give fathers an understanding of what to expect during labor.
In most cases, these classes are offered in groups of 10 to 20 men. However, if you live in a smaller area, you may only find classes available in your community. These classes can help fathers become more confident in their ability to support their partners and themselves during pregnancy and birth.
Birth classes provide a safe environment where fathers can discuss issues related to parenting and parenthood. They can also find out about bonding techniques, infant care, feeding, and much more. And if you are interested in becoming a dad, you can also enroll in classes to become a certified doula.
Should I Take A Paternity Leave?
If you work full-time or part-time, then you should take paternity leave. Although it is less common than maternity leaves, fathers can take paternity leave to care for newborns and support their spouses. In some workplaces, new fathers get paid during their paternity leave breaks.
If you work at a place that offers paternity leave, then you should definitely take it! If you do decide to take some time off, try to get back into the swing of things as soon as possible. It will be easier to return to work when you are feeling refreshed and ready to resume your duties.
However, if you don’t have access to paternity leave or if you just want to spend quality time with your baby, then you should consider taking a few weeks off. Some employers offer extended family medical leave benefits to dads who want to stay home with their children. If your employer offers such benefits, make sure to check them out before taking paternity leave.
Paternity leave is not mandatory in all states. Check with your state government website to determine whether you must take paternity leave or if you can choose to take a leave at any point in the pregnancy.
Most of our readers are from the US. But if you live in Europe you’ll most likely get paid paternity leave spanning anywhere from a few weeks to sometimes even months in scandanavian countries.
Ways To Support Your Spouse During Pregnancy
There are various ways to support your pregnant spouse, asides from going for antenatal with them. Here are some ideas:
Read Pregnancy Books
Information is power, and the more you understand about your partner’s growing belly, how it may influence their mental and physical health, and what obstacles they may be experiencing, the more you will be able to assist and encourage them. The same may be said for your baby’s proper growth and how to plan for childbirth and afterward. These are topics that should be on your radar just as much as they should be on your partner’s.
Old-fashioned prenatal books, which you can borrow from the library or purchase from a bookstore, are excellent resources. They frequently include detailed pictures or photos of pregnancy, as well as helpful week-by-week information.
Ask Questions
You can’t be expected to be aware of all your partner requires at all times. Don’t be hesitant to ask your partner what you can do for them. There will be plenty of opportunities for you to help, from making doctor’s visits to giving them back rubs to preparing their favorite nutritious food.
At the same time, you don’t want to put too much pressure on your partner by expecting them to tell you exactly what to do every step of the way. Taking proactive actions to support your partner is an important component of being a supportive relationship. That’s why it’s crucial to educate yourself about pregnancies and what your partner might be facing.
Take Her Shopping
When your wife is pregnant, she needs lots of special items. This includes clothes, shoes, household items, and so on. When you shop together, you can both enjoy finding good deals and getting exactly what you need.
You both might also need to pick up some baby items, and doing it as a pair will make your partner feel good.
Get Intimate
During pregnancy, it’s very normal for you and your partner to get intimate. However, you should be aware that, unless your partner’s healthcare expert advises otherwise, getting intimate is totally safe during pregnancy. There are a few things to remember, though, because things will be different now.
As your partner’s body changes, some positions may be difficult for them; go slowly and patiently as you explore what feels best to you and your partner.
Buy Her A Gift
A simple but thoughtful gift can really mean a lot to your spouse. You could buy them a fruit basket, a nice dress, or even a pair of flat shoes for antenatal classes. Every little thing you do is special when it’s a show of support for your pregnant spouse.
Be Emotionally Present
Now is the time to start planning for your baby’s arrival, which may be both joyful and stressful. Prenatal appointments will become much more often, so now is the time to start making them a priority if you haven’t already. As labor and delivery approaches, you’ll both have a lot of questions.
It’s also a good time to be a good listener, as your spouse will undoubtedly be concerned about the birth and postpartum period. They may also be concerned about planning for the baby and ensuring that they have all they require. Showing up, paying attention, and dashing about town to buy any last-minute supplies are all good things to do right away.
