Practical. Interesting. Informative. Entertaining. Fun and free. All words used to describe the parent education programme at Western Sussex Hospitals.
Parent education is held in various locations throughout our Trust helping you to find a class convenient for you. The locations are listed below:
All women under our care are eligible to attend the programme with one birthing partner of their choice.
However, attendance is most appropriate for first-time parents-to-be.
You will need to book a place for the class you wish to attend.
-
-
Telephone or text 07801 08 84 71
Programme topics
Labour
-
What happens to your body
-
The mechanics of labour
-
What might bring you into hospital
-
Where you will have your baby
Pain relief
Early day issues
-
Issues around caring for a new baby
-
What to expect as a new parent
-
Practical, research-based advice on topics such as skin care, temperature control and bed sharing with your baby
Feeding
Physiotherapy parent education session
At Worthing there is also the opportunity to attend a one-off Physiotherapy parent education session. Those that have been to a parent education session with the midwives will automatically be offered this additional service.
At Chichester there are daytime physiotherapy sessions. Please ask your midwife for details.
The programme covers the following:
-
Aches and pains of pregnancy – theory and practical
-
Breathing awareness during labour
-
Positions of labour – first and second stage
-
Relaxation
-
Coping skills
-
TENS
It’s a chance to get the mats, gym balls and chairs out and experiment with some positions for labour and breathing techniques – all good fun and partners are encouraged to attend too.
St Richard’s Hospital
The parent education team is based in the community and sessions range from one day programmes to two evening sessions depending on location.
Your midwife will be able to give you further details for your area.
Tour of the maternity unit
This is held both on Saturday and a Sunday afternoon at 3pm. Please book a place on the tour of St Richard's Hospital maternity unit by calling:
The Chichester birth centre on 01243 788122 ext 2811 on weekdays between 11.00am - 12.00pm and 14.00pm - 16.00pm.
Worthing Hospital
Most of our parent education clients attend a ONE-DAY programme held at Boundstone Family and Children Centre, Upper Boundstone Lane, Lancing BN15 9QY. This takes place between 9.30am and 4.15pm on Saturdays or Sundays throughout the year.
Places are limited. The optimum time to attend parent education is around 30-34 weeks (and no later than 36), so please book your place from around 20 weeks, online or by telephoning 07504 566232.
Tour of the maternity unit
The tour of maternity is back! 45 minutes to get familiar with where you will come on the day and any questions you have. To secure a place book online or call 07504 566232.
A virtual tour of the maternity unit is also available online. Please click the link below.
Next: Stopping smoking
