SIMCOE MUSKOKA – Expecting a new baby is exciting and it’s normal for pregnant people and their families to have many questions about pregnancy and what to expect once baby arrives. If getting signed-up for a prenatal class is on your to-do list, you can now register for free prenatal classes being offered throughout Simcoe Muskoka in a variety of formats.
“Pregnancy is an exciting time and our in-person prenatal classes are an opportunity to learn about labour and labour comfort techniques, medical procedures and birth, and how to care for your newborn from a public health nurse,” says Rachelle Phillips, program manager of the health unit’s Healthy Growth and Development Program. “Participants also have an opportunity to meet and speak with other pregnant people and their support person."
Registration for the health unit’s prenatal classes is now available and is required to secure a spot. In-person prenatal class sessions run once a week over four weeks with the first sessions starting on June 7 in Bradford and on June 8 in Barrie. Additional sessions will be offered during the summer months throughout Simcoe Muskoka and will be added to the health unit’s website.
For people who prefer to learn from the comfort of their home, the health unit is also offering two online prenatal class options. The first option is a four-week virtually facilitated class where participants meet online once a week. The same material that is shared in the in-person class is covered and participants have an opportunity to speak with a public health nurse and meet others who are expecting. The first online facilitated session begins May 10 and additional sessions will be added.
The second online option is self-guided classes that allow participants to access the learning materials through audio recordings that they can go through at their own pace. The self-guided classes can be started at any time and questions can be submitted using the Health Connection online form or by calling Health Connection.
For more information about the health unit’s prenatal classes, schedule or to register, visit smdhu.org/PrenatalClass or call Health Connection weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.
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