You are 17 weeks and 6 days

You may want to sign up for prenatal classes now, because in many areas they fill up well in advance.

155 days until your due date

Prenatal classes help prepare you for the birth and usually start in the sixth or seventh month. You'll learn the signs of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, pain relief options, and medical interventions, plus practical advice on caring for your newborn, which can be invaluable for first-time parents.

The types of class depend on where you live, from hospital classes run by a nurse or certified instructor to those run by organizations such as Lamaze International (lamaze.org) or the Bradley Method (bradleybirth.com). Classes are a great way to meet other expectant parents, giving you a support network for the rest of your pregnancy and the early weeks of parenthood.

If your partner comes too, he can prepare for labor and early parenthood and meet other dads-to-be. Fathers' important role during labor and the early weeks is now widely recognized, so classes have become much more father-friendly.

Explainer

Practice together

Going to classes together lets you and your partner practice the techniques you'll use in labor and feel more confident about them.

Good to know

Find a classmate

If you're single, you don't have to go alone. Go with a friend or relative, ideally the person who'll be at the birth, or look for classes for single expectant moms, where you may feel more comfortable and can meet women in the same situation.

Don't skip classes because you're single; they're an invaluable way to learn about pregnancy, labor, and parenting.

Focus on

Twins: Classes for two

Twins are likely to arrive early, so sign up now to start classes early; you may also feel less mobile and less inclined to go once your belly is very big. Because twins sometimes need special care, arrange a tour of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit too.

Some areas run special evening sessions for parents expecting twins or more. If your hospital doesn't, a neighboring one might, so ask your doctor.

This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.