Antenatal Classes

Giving birth and becoming a parent is a day like no other. With so many first-time experiences it can seem overwhelming at times. Feel calm and prepared with LifeCycles innovative, interactive and fun antenatal classes. Designed to give couples the knowledge and tools to feel confident, empowered and excited about their birth.

Your guide to pregnancy, birth and parenthood

LifeCycles classes give you an understanding of the female body and the physiology of labour and birth to help alleviate your fears and trust in the process. You will learn tools to help prepare you physically, mentally and emotionally for labour and birth so you feel ready when the time comes. The discussion around interventions is presented in a way that is easy to understand so if plans take a different turn on the day, it will not seem so scary. This course will inspire you to take an active role in preparing for and making choices around your birth so it will be a positive experience, no matter how it unfolds.
Becoming a parent is an exciting time but it can also feel overwhelming. In these classes you will learn about normal newborn behaviour, ways of handling and caring for your baby. We discuss strategies for making the first few weeks as smooth as possible so you can enjoy this time. Antenatal classes are also an excellent way to meet other expectant parents, and make new friends and expand your community. 

What To Expect

LifeCycles antenatal classes are designed for mums and their birth partner. Classes are held on five consecutive Wednesday evenings, at Kotahi Community Center, located close to Botany. I recommend booking a class that starts early in your third trimester, so you can finish well before birth. 
Enjoy antenatal classes that are educational, innovative and fun! Taught by a Midwife with 20 years experience who has worked in many settings and areas around NZ and the world. You can expect a relaxed, supportive and non-judgemental environment to gain knowledge and understanding to help you make the best choices for you and your baby.  Each week has a specific topic and offers a mixture of interactive discussions, demonstrations, and hands-on experience. There is also plenty of time for questions and lots of practical advice that is evidence based and considered best practice within the profession. 
We’ll also take a short break for a cup of tea and a light snack (provided). This gives you an opportunity to get to know others the other couples in the group.

What Will Be Covered

  • How to prepare your mind and body for labour
  • Signs of labour 
  • Stages of labour and what to do
  • Coping during labour - natural and medical options
  • Labour and birth interventions including assisted deliveries, Cesareans 
  • Newborn baby behaviour
  • Feeding, settling and caring for your newborn
  • The fourth trimester
  • Tips for new Dads
  • Impact of early parenting on relationships and lifestyle

  • Bonus Week 6: Reunion time! Join us once all the babies have arrived for a special meet-up. It's a great opportunity for mums (and dads) to reconnect and foster a supportive community beyond the classroom setting.

Advice you can trust

I’ve personally been present at hundreds of births over my 20 years of being a midwife. My experience and qualifications exceed that of most childbirth educators. I’ve been present for home births, hospital births, medically assisted births, and all levels of intervention. I have been a New Zealand registered midwife through the Midwifery Council of NZ since 2005, and also a member of the New Zealand College of Midwives. Additionally, I hold a Certificate of Midwifery from Bastyr University in Washington State, USA. 
I look forward to supporting you, while helping you navigate the emotional and physical changes associated with becoming a parent.