In Victoria, there is a charge for local prenatal programs. (A bursary is available for those in need). Please see contact information listed to the right.
Your Public Health Nurses are resources for all. They provide:
- Pregnancy classes in areas where community-based prenatal classes are not available (e.g. Salt Spring Island)
- One-to-one and group prenatal teaching and support for individuals that have specific needs
- Prenatal teaching in school-based programs for pregnant adolescents and in Pregnancy Outreach Programs
- Pamphlets, brochures, books and videos and other resources on pregnancy and parenting
Please contact your public health unit for information on the prenatal classes offered or view the local information to the right.
Members of Vancouver Island’s First Nations can also get information on prenatal classes from their community health worker.
In some communities, there are also privately-run prenatal/birth preparation programs.
Questions to ask before registering for a prenatal class or program
- When, where, and how long are the classes?
- How many classes are in the series?
- How much does the series cost? Are bursaries available?
- What are the instructors’ qualifications/experience?
- What is the philosophy of the class regarding prenatal care and birth?
- Is a hospital tour arranged?
- How many birth support people are welcome?
- Do birth support people have to attend?
- What is the maximum number of participants in a class?
- Are refreshments and parking provided?
Look for the following topics
- Physical and emotional changes of pregnancy
- Maternal care issues such as nutrition, exercise, activity, rest, and avoiding alcohol, drugs, and cigarettes
- Labour and delivery
- Medical assistance (ex. caesarean section, episiotomy, medications)
- Breastfeeding
- Baby care
- Infant safety
- Post-partum adjustment and early parenting
- Community support
Did you know...
The British Columbia Ministry of Health sets out guidelines for childbirth preparation classes. There are a variety of private classes in some communities. Classes that meet the Ministry's guidelines offer a bursary for those in need.