Prenatal Classes Information
Currently, our prenatal classes are held virtually online. To join, please book your class using our registration form.
Prenatal Classes
Prenatal and childbirth education classes provide families with important information and skills preparation that are fundamental to childbirth and the first few weeks of parenthood.
Our prenatal classes are taught by qualified labour and delivery nurses who will guide you through everything that you need to know about having a baby – from what to do when you go into labour, to important tips for caring for your newborn.
Each class is about eight hours.
What you will learn in class
Our classes are very comprehensive. Our labour and delivery nurses who teach are experienced and skilled. You can feel comfortable knowing that they will be able to answer almost any question you have about delivering your baby.
Here is an outline of what you will learn at our prenatal class:
- Stages of labour and what to expect
- Coping strategies, including breathing techniques
- When to come to the hospital, including what to bring
- Role of the support person(s)
- Medical interventions, including induction, pain management options and cesarean birth
- Hospital information and procedures
- Breastfeeding information
- Tips including resources for before and after
All participants are provided with a package of materials that has information on what was covered in class. There is always time for open discussion and a chance to go over any questions you or your partner may have. At the end of your class you will be reminded to use the e-mail address should you require further information or clarification of class content.
Breastfeeding Support Information
Currently, our breastfeeding classes are held virtually online. To join, please book your class using our registration form.
Before Giving Birth
Prenatal Breastfeeding Classes
Prenatal breastfeeding classes are offered to expectant parents, and other support people. The classes are led by lactation consultants, who teach about:
- What to expect in the first few days after your baby is born
- The benefits of breastfeeding
- How to breastfeed and be confident in your ability
- What is a good latch
- How often to breastfeed and how to know if baby is getting enough
- Breastfeeding myths and facts, common challenges and solutions
- Hand expressing, breast pump options, and how best to safely store expressed breast milk
- Breastfeeding supports available at Scarborough Health Network and within the community
While in the Hospital
Breastfeeding support during your hospital stay is provided by skilled nurses. Patients receive teaching and breastfeeding assistance at the bedside.
After Going Home
Our Breastfeeding Clinics provides support to all women who have questions about or issues with breastfeeding.
Toronto Public Health registered nurses work together in collaboration with hospital nurses who have breastfeeding expertise to support families with breastfeeding in the clinic. New parents are encouraged to use the clinic as long as needed and are welcome to visit the clinic during pregnancy for advance planning and care.
Centenary Hospital
Main Floor, 2867 Ellesmere Rd., Scarborough, ON M1E 4B9
Telephone: 416-284-8131 ext. 64047
Call for appointment
Monday to Friday – open to all clients
Saturday and Sunday – SHN clients only
General Hospital
2nd Floor, 2 East, 3050 Lawrence Ave. E, Scarborough, ON M1P 2V5
416-438-2911, ext. 83230
Call for appointment
Monday to Friday (9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.) – open to all clients
Saturday and Sunday (9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.) – SHN clients only
While in the hospital, we encourage patients look through their teaching packages and review information regarding community resources prior to discharge. Community resources are also posted in each patient’s room.
La Leche League Canada
Free telephone counselling and drop-in group (daytime & evening) provided by trained volunteer leaders.
www.lllc.ca
Ontario Early Years Center
Free resources and learning programs for Parents and their child from birth to six years.
www.ontarioearlyyears.ca
Toronto Health Connections
Get support by speaking with a public health nurse.
416-338-7600
Monday –Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Toronto Public Health
Further support for breastfeeding is also available at several locations across Toronto.
www.toronto.ca/health/breastfeeding/free_services.html
How to Register for a Class
Register for Class
Currently, our prenatal and breastfeeding classes are held virtually online (not in-person). To join, please book your class using our registration form below. If you have any difficulties, please contact prenatalclass@shn.ca.
Class enrolment will not be confirmed until your payment has been received.
Payment
The fee for SHN’s Virtual Prenatal Class is $50. Payment is required within one week of submitting the Registration Form. A member of the Birthing and Newborn Centre team will contact you once your payment has been processed to confirm your class booking.
Payment options
Please call our secure Credit Card Payment Line at 416-281-7248. The line is available at all times.
Leave a message with the following information:
- What the payment is for (i.e. Prenatal Class)
- Name of patient
- Class date
- Credit card number
- Expiration date on card
You may make a payment on-site at our Finance office, located on the 14th floor at our Centenary Hospital (2867 Ellesmere Road).
The office is open Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you have difficulties, please contact us at 416-284-8131 ext. 64011.
For any questions regarding payment, please contact ar@shn.ca.
SHN understands the importance of preparing for the birth of your child and does not want financial considerations to prevent those who wish to attend from doing so. If you require assistance, please contact your doctor, midwife or the prenatal instructor at prenatalclass@shn.ca.