Results from the Evaluation of Prenatal Classes

 

The Renfrew County and District Health Unit provides prenatal classes for pregnant women and their partners. The classes help expectant parents:

• understand how to have a healthy baby,
• prepare for labour and birth, and
• learn how to care for their new baby.

 

In 2005, we held 22 series of prenatal classes in six locations. At the last class in each series, participants were asked to fill out an evaluation form. The evaluation forms were analyzed, and the results were used in updating the contents of the classes.

 

Participants at the prenatal classes told us that they felt “informed and prepared” about most topics that were covered. However, they wanted more information on some topics. In response, we have purchased new teaching resources on caring for mom and baby after delivery, and Caesarean delivery. Also, we made sure that good information on infant nutrition and immunization is included in a new post-natal series, called Transition to Parenting, that will be offered starting in September 2006.

 

When asked about changes they had made because of attending prenatal classes, 64 percent of respondents reported making at least one change, and 45 percent reported making two or more changes. Thirty-six percent reported making no changes. The most popular changes were in the areas of eating habits, dealing with discomfort, and relaxation.

 

Seventy percent of respondents reported that the prenatal classes increased their confidence about labour and birth, and 62 percent said that the classes increased their confidence in becoming a parent.

 

We will continue to offer prenatal classes across Renfrew County and District, and to collect feedback from participants in our ongoing effort to meet the needs of pregnant women and their partners.