NCT ante natal class

I noticed some recent discussions about ante natal classes today so it seems like a good opportunity to think about the first NCT ante natal class we went to on Monday. We always wanted to attend the NCT classes. Some of our closest friends rave about the friends they met on the course they did in Southampton. They meet at least once a week for coffee, attend each others birthday parties and have been providing a rota of cooked meals for the families who are having their second children!

So after our booking-in appointment at the local hospital we were encouraged to book on some classes. Firstly, we were quite surprised to find that there were no classes in our immediate area. Secondly, the nearest classes were two full days rather than over a series of evenings which had me a little worried as I knew I preferred information in small chunks. Anyway we decided to book the two day course a couple of postcodes away, thinking that the cost of the course would outweigh the opportunity to meet some like-minded people and learn some new skills.

So on Monday I tried to hide my preconceptions (yes, I have heard horror stories about NCT brainwashing!) and went with my husband to the church hall with my birthing ball and pillow. We were also asked to bring some item of food to share – need I tell you that some people spent Sunday evening baking brownies and cakes? We, of course, stopped off at the local supermarket to buy supplies, and then felt too embarrassed to take it out of the plastic bag.

I have to say that I didn’t find Day 1 of the course that useful although I did learn all about the instructors’ planned holiday in the Canaries (no wonder the course fees are so high!). My husband was taught some very patronising exercises that involved him running his finger down my face and saying “3,2,1 and relax” to help calm me down in labour. I have already told him that if he dares try that on me during labour I will swear loudly at him! I’m sure I learnt some other things but sadly I can’t remember them.  Hopefully Day 2 will be better.