Bring it on! Prenatal classes for Vancouver parents-to-be
Hey there, parents-to-be! Expecting a baby is a whole new, exciting adventure, but if it’s your first time and you have few friends with kids, or little experience with babies, it can get overwhelming reeeeeal fast. Between picking out the perfect stroller and figuring out how to install a car seat (seriously, why are they so complicated?), you might be wondering if prenatal classes are worth it. The answer? Absolutely! Whether you're first-time parents or just need a refresher, a good prenatal class will help you feel more prepared, knowledgeable, and confident for the big day—and beyond. You will be able to make more informed decisions in the moment, and can make sure you set yourself up for success when it comes to things like feeding, and recovering physically and emotionally. But my biggest advice? Make sure you pick one that includes education on the postpartum period. That’s when the real learning happens.
Luckily, Vancouver has plenty of options to fit different needs, schedules, and budgets. Whether you’re looking for in-person, online, or free options, we’ve got you covered.
Why Take Prenatal Classes?
Prenatal classes help you feel more in control and prepared for birth and early parenthood. You may learn:
What to expect during labour and delivery
Pain relief options (both medical and natural)
Partner support strategies
How to care for your newborn (diapering, feeding, and soothing techniques)
Breastfeeding basics
Postpartum recovery and emotional well-being
What to pack for the hospital
Even better? You might even connect with other expectant parents who are on the same journey.
In-Person Prenatal Classes in Vancouver
If you prefer hands-on learning and face-to-face interaction, in-person classes are a great option. Here are some of the best ones in town:
Douglas College Prenatal & Newborn Care - Classes include many activities and opportunities for hands-on practice of comfort techniques and strategies for labour. At various locations in the Lower Mainland, with two formats available: once a week for six weeks, or over two days. They also offer occasional guest speaker webinars on various topics that might be worth checking out.
Birth By Bloom/Dancing Star Birth - Offering in-person (with 6 week and weekend option) classes in Kitsilano, East Van, New West & Surrey, Birth by Bloom covers everything from labour and birth, to the first six weeks with your new baby.
Down to Birth - Their Prenatal in a Day class runs once a month on Kingsway, and helps you prepare for birth, postpartum adjustment, and newborn feeding.
BabyPrep - With options of a full weekend, or a 4 week series, ran out of Kitsilano Neighbourhood House, BabyPrep covers everything you need to know about labour, delivery, and newborn care, as well as some info on postpartum and breastfeeding.
Childbearing Society - Based in East Van (with online options), Childbearing Prenatal Classes cover all the basic information about labour and birth, but also include strategies for pain management, choices, decision-making during labour, coping techniques, and medical options, as well as breast feeding, baby care, and postpartum reality. They also offered online seminars on topics such as Scheduled Cesareans, Multiples, and a Crash Course for Dads.
St. Paul’s Hospital - If you’re having your baby at St. Pauls, they offer a three week series on Labour & Birth, Postpartum & Baby Care, and Breastfeeding, which includes a tour of the maternity unit and birthing rooms. Online options also available.
Debra Woods Doula - Offers in-person Practical Newborn Care, Birth Partner’s Support, & Homebirth classes in person (generally at Mount Pleasant Community Centre), as well as some private/online classes.
Dodo Childbirth - Ran by an experienced labour and delivery nurse at BC Womens, Dodo offers classes in Mandarin & Cantonese.
Online Prenatal Classes
For parents who need flexibility (or just want to take a class in their PJs), online options are a lifesaver:
Brood Care - Offerings include “Pregnancy, Birth, & Right After”, “Postpartum & the 4th Trimester”, “Early Parenthood”, “Feeding Your Baby”, “Miscarriage & Early Loss”, and occasionally “Doing it for the Dads”, as well as their free courses mentioned below. Brood also provides Doula services, and inclusivity is weaved in throughout their services, making it a fantastic option for queer families too!
My Powerful Birth - A 6 week series for families across Canada, this one focuses mostly on birth, covering areas like informed decision-making, and communicating your needs. They also offer a “My Powerful VBAC” course, and in-person classes in Pitt Meadows & Abbotsford.
BabyPrep - as above, but on Zoom, with 12 other couples. Options of a weekend and 4 week series.
Douglas College Prenatal and Newborn Care - as above, but online. 6 weeks in the evenings for 2 hours. Here’s the course outline.
Childbearing Society - As above, but on Zoom
The Positive Birth Company - If you’re into hypnobirthing, The PBC is a great option from the U.K., that covers topics such as ways to keep yourself calm, and a great way to approach decision-making.
Bump Physio - Amongst other areas, Bump Physio specializes in prenatal and postnatal physio, RMT, acupuncture and kinesiology. Their bi-monthly virtual class covers pregnancy, birth, and recovery, with a focus on pelvic floor through a physiotherapy lens.
Free Prenatal Classes
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get great prenatal education. Check out these free options:
Brood - An amazing resource, you can learn the basics of pregnancy, birth and postpartum with Brood co-founder and Full Spectrum Doula Emma Devin — online, at your own pace, and in your own home. They also offer a “Wealthy Beginnings” (in collab with Vancity)
Tummy Talks - This two part online series is completely free for residents of BC.
Your Baby Academy - Not in Vancouver, but free (for now!) and online nonetheless. This class covers baby care only.
Pampers Birthing Classes - Register and you can watch this 9 part series for free.
What’s the right option for You?
Ultimately, it depends on your learning style, schedule, and budget. If you want a hands-on experience with real-time support, and a chance to connect with others, in-person classes are a great choice. If you need flexibility, online classes are the way to go. And if cost is a concern, there are plenty of free resources out there that are an excellent way to get you off on the right foot. And don’t forget to inform yourself on the postpartum period too… consider your physical recovery, mental health, and educate yourself on the process of matrescence. You’ll be glad you did!
No matter which class you choose, the most important thing is that you feel informed, empowered, and ready to welcome your little one. You got this, parents-to-be! 💛
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