Congratulations on your pregnancy. You are about to embark on a very exciting journey. Childbirth has a profound impact on the lives of both parents and their offspring. Many books have been written on the subject and the media offers everything from reality birth TV to glossy magazines featuring images of glowing mother and her perfect baby. Along the way, people you know are only too willing to offer tips and advice. So why bother with prenatal classes? Some would argue that nothing can truly prepare couples for the all-consuming experience of labour and the complete upheaval that a new baby brings to a well ordered lifestyle. They are partly correct because each individual experience of pregnancy, labour and parenting is unique. In this respect there are often no definitive answers to the multitude of questions prospective parents want to ask. However for a couple attending a program of classes, there are many benefits. Especially those living in a country not their own, away from family and friends at a time when they are both in need of support.


Some of the reasons why couples find "Babymoons" prenatal classes rewarding are listed below:

• A chance to meet and make friends with other prospective parents, creating a ready made support group for the remainder of pregnancy and after their babies are born.
  
  
• A safe and comfortable environment in which to share experiences, hope and fears for what lies ahead.
  
  
• Sessions facilitated by a midwife and registered childbirth educator with many years experience of working with expat parents.
  
  
• Impartial information given on the range of services available within both the Czech maternity system and in other countries. (Some women choose to return to their home country for the birth).
  
  
• Courses are tailored to the needs of each individual group.
  
  
• Fathers are highly valued members of the group and every topic or activity is equally relevant to both men and women.
  
  
• Birth is a normal physiological process. Skills are learned which will not only prepare both mother and father for the physical and emotional demands of labour, but also maximize the chances of achieving a straightforward birth.
  
  
• Couples feel better prepared to face the challenges that await them. They are empowered to communicate confidently and effectively with their caregivers thus making the right choices to ensure a truly rewarding birth experience.