Durham Region Health Department is launching free online prenatal classes for local residents.
Health officials state the classes will provide families with information touching upon pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, newborn care and local community resources.
Free access is available by registering at durham.ca/onlineprenatalclasses.
The online classes are offered in a mobile-friendly format to help users access them using any device, anywhere an Internet connection is available.
According to a health department media release, the content is Canadian-focused, up-to-date and evidence-based with high quality videos, animations, interactive activities, quizzes and a parent’s toolbox.
“Whether you are a first-time parent, supporting someone who is pregnant or looking for a refresher, the classes are a flexible way to learn more about pregnancy and parenting,” said Kelly Pigeau, a public health nurse. “These classes can help decrease fears around labour and birth, help partners feel involved, help prepare for bringing baby home and help families make informed decisions.”
The online classes assist parents in their learning by providing helpful tips and information for each stage.
For pregnancy, topics include healthy eating, pregnancy discomforts, and physical and emotional health.
With birth, parents will be able to learn about the stages of labour, comfort measures, birth stories and medical interventions. Classes also cover breastfeeding information including signs of a good latch and breast milk production.
The newborn class covers information on tending to a newborn, safe sleeping habits, immunization schedules, and postpartum health.
Users will also find links to regional support programs and services that are available to further assist families.
“These online classes are a great addition to the supports and resources the health department already provides for expectant families,” Pigeau continued. “By offering these classes, our goal is to provide families with multiple options for learning that best suits their schedules and lifestyles.”
Users are invited to browse the information at their own pace with a log-in that is valid for one year.
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