Frequently Asked Questions

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When in my pregnancy should I take prenatal classes?
You should take prenatal classes at least one month prior to your due date.  You don’t want to schedule the classes too early because you want to have the material fresh in your mind for your birthing day; however, space is limited and classes do book up early, so don’t leave it too long before registering.

How do I choose the right prenatal classes?
Click here to view 8 tips for choosing the right prenatal class.

What do classes cost?
Classes cost $160 per couple for the two full-day sessions including beverages and snacks, and all provided resources. Earlybird discounts are available for those who register early.  Payment may be made online with a credit card when registering, or via cheque mailed out prior to the first class.

What should I bring?
Classes are usually taught in the Lakeridge Health Port Perry hospital's Education Resource Centre. As the hospital cafeteria is closed on the weekends, and since there are limited options for purchasing food during the breaks, Port Perry Lamaze will be providing beverages and snacks during the morning and afternoon sessions. It is also recommended that participants pack a lunch.

Participants should also:

• Bring one or two pillows
  
• Bring a mat (yoga mats are ideal), blanket or towel to use when laying on the floor for labour rehearsals
  
• Bring a bottle of water, juice or other beverage
  
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing and dress in layers to help deal with temperature fluxuations
  

Where are the classes held?
Classes are held at the Lakeridge Health Port Perry hospital, located at 451 Paxton Street, Port Perry, ON, L9L 1A8.  Go in through the main enterance and turn down the main hallway to the right to access the Education Resource Room.

The hospital phone numbers is 905-985-7321.

Paid parking is availableon site. Please bring change.  (Credit cards are also accepted.)

What time do the classes run?
Classes start at 9am and end at 3:30pm on both days.

What if I miss my classes (or cannot complete them) because I give birth early?
Often we have to turn people away when our classes are full.  People who don't show up for class are taking away a seat from those who would have liked to attend.  However, we understand that sometimes babies are born early chaning your plans.

If you miss your classes because your baby came early, and you notified us at least two business days before the classes started, we will issue you a refund (less a $25 administration fee).

If you know in advance that you are going to miss your classes for other reasons, please contact your instructor to make arrangements to try fitting you in to another scheduled class.

If you miss your second class of a two-class series, there is no refund; however, you may be able to sit in on a makeup class if there are available spaces. Please contact your instructor to inquire about availability.

If you miss your classes entirely, and did not provide adequate advance notification, then no refund will be issued.

I’m expecting my second baby. Why should I take prenatal classes?
Policies and procedures for childbirth may be different in this hospital than where you gave birth last time. Even policies in this hospital change over time. You want to ensure that you have the latest information and are prepared for what you may experience this time you are in labour. Also, medical techniques change over time – if it has been a few years since you last gave birth, there is a good chance that some things may be different in the hospital setting.

How useful are the classes for my partner?
The instructor helps partners understand their role in helping the labouring woman through all stages of labour and through the post-partum period. Partners will be given specific tasks that they can perform and advice on how to cope with the way the new baby will affect their relationship.