30 days access to all 4 expecting sessions to stream in the comfort of your own home. You’ll also receive access to additional downloadable content & a personal video consultation with an Expecting midwife.
Add hypnobirthing to your basket with any of our full antenatal classes for £15 off!
This is the Expecting full online antenatal course. The online antenatal course covers the full Expecting curriculum. You will be given 30 days access to all 4 expecting sessions to stream in the comfort of your own home. You’ll also receive access to additional downloadable content to supplement each session; please only refer to these after watching the relevant session. Within a few days of completing your booking an Expecting midwife will be in touch to arrange your video-call.
Whilst watching the online antenatal course you will receive prompts to pause the videos. During this time please write down any questions you have. You may find that these questions are answered later in the online antenatal course but there will be some questions relevant to your own personal situation. These questions, if not answered later in the videos, can be asked during your video call with one of our Expecting midwives along with any other issues you’d like to discuss.
Rach
03/09/21
We highly recommend these courses!! My husband & I are first time parents and so we signed up to Freya's Hypnobirthing online class, and the antenatal classes too, after they were recommendedby a friend. These are now running in person (as Covid restrictions have lifted) but there is an online option for you to access them from anywhere in the world! I can't tell you how useful they've all been! We were sceptical about the hypnobirthing but really enjoyed it & have taken away some valuable tips and definitely recommend anyone giving it a go!The antenatal classes have put us very much at ease and definitely helped to prepare us for what may come our way from birth & early parenthood. The course is very well structured and easy to follow. We felt very comfortable at the classes and found it a great opportunity to ask any questions (both in person, via text during the week, or via a WhatsApp group for all the parents on the course). Freya was able to answer any questions that we had, as well as offer great advice and point us in the right direction if there was additional information that we wanted. The course was also a great opportunity to speak to other parents too, and to realise that we aren't alone on this journey.We highly recommend Freya, and are very grateful for her time, support & the resources that she provided (and of course the great snacks too) 😀. Thank you!!
read moreread less
Louise J.
30/08/21
We are first time parents that recently took both the online antenatal and hypnobirthing classes, and are very happy we did. The videos were very informative, and the zoom chats added additional helpful information that wasn't repeated from the videos, so i would highly recommend the online classes.
I wasn't sure hypnobirthing would be something I really benefited from, but was willing to give it (anything) a go. The class actually had a very pragmatic approach that I enjoyed and found really relaxing.
Overall the classes have helped us feel more prepared, and i would recommend them to anyone. The fact you can message Freya after and ask any questions that pop up is really helpful too and going the extra mile.
Thanks Freya - Mat & Kelly 😊
read moreread less
Kelly C.
30/08/21
We are first time parents that recently took both the online antenatal and hypnobirthing classes, and are very happy we did. The videos were very informative, and the zoom chats added additional helpful information that wasn't repeated from the videos, so i would highly recommend the online classes.
I wasn't sure hypnobirthing would be something I really benefited from, but was willing to give it (anything) a go. The class actually had a very pragmatic approach that I enjoyed and found really relaxing.
Overall the classes have helped us feel more prepared, and i would recommend them to anyone. The fact you can message Freya after and ask any questions that pop up is really helpful too and going the extra mile.
read moreread less
Emma H.
25/07/21
Invaluable antenatal course The Expecting antenatal course was invaluable for us in preparing for birth and beyond. It was hugely informative without being overwhelming, helping so much to put our minds at ease.The online course was also a brilliant format allowing us to watch the sessions whenever suited us, and then re-watch them again.Also knowing that Freya was available to answer any questions or worries we had was extremely comforting. Freya has been so lovely and approachable in our contact with her and we were really grateful for her support. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Expecting classes to anyone looking for antenatal information, advice and reassurance.We also joined Freya’s hypnobirthing course and the techniques I learnt made a huge difference to my state of mind during labour. Brilliant and again highly recommended. Thank you so much Freya and team.
read moreread less
Abigail N.
05/03/21
Me and my partner took part in the online antenatal class and also the online hypnobirthing class. It really helped us prepare for what to expect for birth and it really helped calm our nerves! The hypnobirthing class was easy to follow and gave us some really useful tips and tricks to use during our birth making it a calmer and more controlled experience!
read moreread less
Robert L.
27/08/20
My partner and I took the online Antenatal Class due to the current pandemic which consisted of 4 very informative videos, 2 video calls through zoom with other couples (who had questions you didn't realise you needed the answers to), various downloads available and direct contact with Midwife Freya who can give advice and answer any questions upto 28 days after your little one is born which is very reassuring.
There is even information on the site to help with introducing your dog to your little one. 👍🏻
The course was clearly set out and very well lead by Freya who was on hand through out to answer any questions. Freya also set up a WhatsApp group so all the couples can keep in touch.
I would highly recommend taking the classes.
Thank you again
read moreread less
Joe P.
13/07/20
Freya was fantastic! Due to COVID-19, we weren’t able to do the in-person antenatal classes so we did her online course, which was really helpful. My wife had an emergency c section and the information covered In the videos really came in handy. Thanks!
read moreread less
Marianne P.
23/06/20
My partner and I have just completed the expecting online course and it has been an absolute godsend during the coronavirus pandemic. When we went into lockdown I was very stressed at the thought of not being able to attend any antenatal classes as planned and didn’t know what to do. I tried to YouTube random antenatal videos but there was such a “mish-mash” of information that I felt more bewildered than ever. I was recommended Freya’s online course by several midwives and honestly they were right. The course is structured into 4 different episodes including Labour, Pain Relief, Feeding and Baby’s first days. It was great being able to watch the videos together with my partner, we watched them all through twice and made notes the second time around. We both feel so much better prepared now and don’t feel as though we have missed out on anything, which was definitely my main concern. Freya delivers the information brilliantly so that it doesn’t feel overwhelming to first-time parents like us. She makes you feel really at ease with it all. She also offers a video call once you have completed all of the online videos so that you can discuss any questions that you may have. I highly recommend this course, especially during the current situation, it will put your mind at ease and make you feel confident in bringing your baby into the world.
read moreread less
Nikki H.
13/06/20
I completed the online antenatal course (during covid pandemic) which was brilliant. It was great that me and my partner were able to watch them at our leisure and we could stop and go over bits again. It has everything you need to know and has prepared us for labour, the birth and caring for our baby after. Freya also offers a video call after completing the course to discuss any questions that we had and updated us on a few things. We had a lovely chat with her and my partner was really glad that he also did the course with me and was able to ask questions from his perspective too. I would definitely recommend doing Freya’s courses, she’s professional, relaxed and really informative!!! 😀
read moreread less
Julia H.
14/04/20
Just finished a personal zoom call with Freya. What a brilliant service she offers! So personalised, informative and helpful. I did the online course and the access to videos was easy with supplementary notes; I loved that we could sit down and watch them at a time convenient for us. Freya then followed up with a session to answer all of our questions. I highly recommend this course.
read moreread less
Charlotte L.
13/09/19
Being sceptical in the beginning about an online antenatal class we were totally delighted after just one video class already! There was so much useful advice and insights given by Freya that we didn’t think about booking a weekend birth class anymore (which is the common way to do it here in Germany/Berlin)! The way she presented all the background information didn’t feel like an online video at all but very personal and fondly with the right amount of humour here and there. The classes calmed me down and left us as a couple relaxed, reassured and well prepared for the birth of our first child.
We would highly recommend her classes to anyone (even to non-natives). Just brilliant!
read moreread less
Dieks A.
12/03/19
My wife and I did the online classes. The information was clear and comprehensive. I felt equipped and looked forward to having our baby. I remember using some of the stuff I learnt when my wife was in labour and I believe it really came in handy
read moreread less
Full range of topics covered:
Session 1
pregnancy
signs of labour
the latent phase & advice
what determines the length of your labour
going to hospital /calling the midwife
first, second & third stages of labour
what the birth partner might see
water-birth
when things don’t go according to plan
Session 2
attitude towards pain
role of the birth partner
coping methods for early labour
natural pain relief
medical pain relief
Session 3
skin to skin
breastfeeding benefits to mums and babies
sterilising
bottle feeding
SIDS (cot death)
challenges of breastfeeding
anatomy & how it works
expressing
breastfeeding and partners
Session 4
how life is about to change
first hour with your babies
visitors
practicalities
first days with your babies
why do babies cry?
nappy changing
bathing baby
dressing baby
car-seat safety
insight into parenthood
Expecting Quick Tips
Bite size tips on a whole range of pregnancy, birth and baby related topics (click the playlist button, top right on the player to see all of the video topics)
Reviews
FAQs
When can I sign up?
- Any time after your first scan.
- If you’ve left it really late you can still sign up for our online course & get instant access to our full course & even benefit from a video call with a midwife after baby has arrived.
What’s the difference between the online course and the virtual classes?
- Both options give you access to our full course to stream and watch/rewatch in the comfort of your own home for a month.
- The virtual classes include Zoom calls with others at a similar stage of pregnancy and gives an opportunity to get to know one another, hear their questions and benefit from the wisdom of your experienced midwife. A what’s app group is set up for the mums to be in the group for added support from each other & your Expecting midwife.
- The online course includes a video call with an experienced Expecting midwife to answer any questions you might have including those specifically about your pregnancy.
How long can I access the videos for?
- The full online course gives you access to the videos for a month.
- The individual videos can be watched for 7 days each so it makes sense to stagger the start dates if you purchase more than one.
I know I’m having a planned Caesarean section. Is Expecting still relevant for me?
- Yes! We cover what to expect when you’re booked in for a caesarean & the aftercare.
- Our feeding & early parenting sessions are still equally relevant.
- Our hypnobirthing class can help keep you calm during pregnancy & be used in theatre during your caesarean.
- Our classes are a great way to meet others at a similar life stage.
Does the feeding class cover breast and bottle feeding?
Yes indeed! We offer non biased information enabling you to make an informed decision & support you in your choices.
Are classes and courses still as relevant for same sex couples?
Absolutely! It’s important you’re both prepared regardless of gender/sexual orientation. We’ve had a number of single sex couples attend our classes.
Can I still ask questions after the class/course?
- Yes! Your Expecting host midwife is on hand to receive calls or text messages right up until your baby is 28 days old.
My partner and I joined the Expecting Antenatal classes in November ahead of the birth of my first child. Unsure what to expect, I was welcomed by a friendly Freya who explained that classes were informative but relaxed which instantly put me at ease.
We were joined by several other couples who were going through similar journeys.
Each week a different topic was covered, and there was time for questions, chats and group activities.
I felt confident and prepared ahead of my birth experience.
The girls in the group still keep in touch and meet for coffee.
I have also since completed another post partum course led by Freya.
read moreread less
Laura C.
09/03/24
Freya's classes in Cannock were one of a kind. My partner and I learnt so much and enjoyed going every week. Her classes were tailored to tell you everything you needed to know with a no nonsense approach. The sessions were really interactive, with people sharing stories and asking questions. Sometimes we got completely off topic 🤣 but it's that sort of thing that has made us a group of mummy and daddy friends for life, sharing this wonderful experience together and Freya guiding us along the way 😍
read moreread less
Alison H.
15/01/24
The Expecting classes in Cannock with Freya were absolutely fantastic; important information given in a way that was easy to understand. Freya is truly an expert in her field, and really helps you to prepare for your baby's arrival. She was incredibly kind and encouraging, and continues to be amazingly supportive even after my wee one was born. She goes above and beyond to help! She gives you sensible research-backed, and experience-backed, advice that is invaluable. She also provides the perfect setting to meet other Mums and Dads, and encouragment to form a group of lovely friends in the same position! I strongly recommend these classes; you don't just get information, you get the village you need to raise your child.
read moreread less
Alexandra I.
15/01/24
My partner and I attended these classes prior to the birth of our daughter. They were really useful and we benefited a lot from attending. I cannot recommend them enough. Freya was lovely and we ended up using a lot of the information before and after the birth. The format was really accessible and the support provided via WhatsApp in the form of a group chat was superb.
read moreread less
Genevieve A.
17/12/23
Freya is amazing! Freya has been, and continues to be, amazing and such a massive support, both pre and post birth. The course is so informative, and gives lots of clear answers for first time parents, where we found advice from the NHS to be vague and unclear. Dads are included as much as Mums, and there are no cringey group breathing exercises. We would highly recommend this and all of Freya's classes for first-time parents.
read moreread less
Paul B.
29/09/23
So pleased that we signed up to these classes. Found them really useful but also enjoyable. It was a really lovely opportunity to meet couples who were also about to become new parents. Gemma is fab and goes out of her way to make everyone feel comfortable and get the most out of the sessions. Would highly recommend
read moreread less
Laura C.
09/09/23
Really enjoyed the class. Very informative and covers all the main areas of labour and early days with a newborn. It was also lovely to meet other expecting parents in the local area.
read moreread less
Jade A.
09/09/23
Gemma is super approachable and put us completely at ease- there was no such thing as a stupid question!
read moreread less
Samantha R.
09/09/23
SUPERB! SUPERB! I attended Freya’s hypnobirthing class with my husband and we found it so incredibly useful! She’s full of so much knowledge and information but made it really accessible. The class was really relaxing and we feel really positive about the birth. THANK YOU!
read moreread less
Sophie A.
02/09/23
Very informative classes We really enjoyed attending the antenatal classes and found them very informative. Freya creates a very relaxed environment where you feel comfortable to ask questions and discuss any concerns you have. We would really recommend the Expecting classes, they are really worth it!
read moreread less
Elle P.
01/09/23
Freya is great Freya is great! Her classes are informative without being intimidating. She has so much knowledge and experience and doesn’t for d her opinion on you. She has loads of advice to give. Our classes were gifted to us from my Sister in Law as she also found her so great. Would 100% recommend Freya to anyone expecting!
read moreread less
customer
01/09/23
I would highly recommend this class to any expectant parents, Gemma is amazing and as a practising midwife is able to pass on so much knowledge and up to date information, particularly on local hospitals and services that would be difficult to find elsewhere. The course was very relaxed and friendly and I’m so glad we made the decision to do it!
read moreread less
Jessica R.
09/08/23
Superb Classes and Support The classes were brilliant. Very interactive filled with lots of information that has proved extremely useful. The ongoing support and openness of the group leader is brilliant and somewhat invaluable. Highly recommend anyone expecting a baby to attend one of these courses. An absolute bargain for what is provided.
read moreread less
John P.
07/08/23
Baby Massage and Yoga A comfortable safe space where I was able to enjoy and learn something new with my baby. Felt it helped us bond and make bad days turn into good ones. It was lovely to meet other Mums and share our experiences and stories together. I will miss my Mondays with Freya and our group! Definitely would recommend to any new Mum or Dad.
read moreread less
Chloe
03/08/23
Expecting everything! We have become a fully converted Expecting family. Having done the antenatal courses, both my partner and I felt well informed when it came to bringing our baby boy into the world. Beyond Expecting has provided Ezra and I with a great weekly pit stop to decompress, and catch up with other Mums and babies. We have also just finished baby massage and baby yoga where we met more lovely Mums and babies and I have really enjoyed the bonding experience of some more physical/touch-based activity with baby. We love it so much my husband even did Dad’s massage. Every step of the way we have found Freya to be encouraging, calming and supportive and I’m so grateful for the communities that have been built through all these activities - I couldn’t imagine doing this baby malarkey without them!
read moreread less
Maddy B.
03/08/23
Full expecting experience Me and my partner started with the expecting antenatal classes which helped us both feel more confident about the big day and the fourth trimester. I also did the Hypnobirthing course, although my little boy came so quickly I didn’t get chance to put my practise to work, I did find it very relaxing in the last few weeks of pregnancy. We then continued with Freya for baby massage, I felt so supported by Freya when he was poorly. Freya is down to earth and so empathetic. The leg massage techniques certainly helped me to keep him calm on his op day! Bertie loves Freya and all the little babies he met so much we continued with baby yoga. He had so much fun, belly laughing through most of the classes 😂. We will certainly miss our Monday hot chocolate. Highly recommend! Such a calm and welcoming atmosphere even when baby is having a grizzly day!
read moreread less
Vikki L.
02/08/23
The perfect follow on from the antenatal classes from beyond expecting The baby massage and yoga classes are a great bonding experience for you and your little one! Both are perfect to do at home and packs are sent out after each session!! The sessions are great to meet mums at the same stage as you and bounce ideas or talk openly during them tough weeks when needed! Freya is so welcoming and hosts them in her home which is a cosy environment for all! Highly recommend
read moreread less
Cathy H.
02/08/23
We had been recommended Freya’s classes by a few friends and we can see why! Freya’s classes were brilliant in preparing us with the right amount of information vs time to talk and involve both mums and dads to be! Freya is so welcoming with plenty of drinks and snacks too! It was a great way to meet families at the same stage and has been great to keep in touch with the group in the months after helped as well by the reunion that Freya organises before classes finish. We have also attended the beyond expecting baby group which is a lovely informal session to meet others and feel less alone as first time parents and Freya facilitates conversations with others you have things in common with so don’t worry if you are going alone! I’d recommend Freya’s classes to anyone and classes are so reasonable too! Freya’s support hasn’t stopped after the group either she goes beyond to make you feel supported whenever you have a question she’s still at the end of a phone!
read moreread less
Hannah B.
21/06/23
Excellent sessions - a must for new parents! Freya’s sessions were fantastic in preparing my husband and I for the labour and birth of our first child! I truly believe because of these classes and the additional hypnobirthing course with Freya I got the unmedicated water birth I dreamt of. Without this knowledge I know I would have had more pain medication and felt less confident about giving birth. The aftercare with Freya is fantastic too any issues or questions she is the first person I contact for advice and the beyond expecting baby group is brilliant. This class is a must for new time parents!
read moreread less
Cathy H.
03/05/23
These classes were recommended to us by my partner’s sister and I am so, so grateful she did!
We had scoured the internet trying to find a class we could attend as a couple that would fit around work, and Expecting did just that.
From the very first evening, Freya created a warm and welcoming atmosphere where no question was a silly one and everyone in the group was included.
I loved that partners were involved throughout, and the importance of their role was emphasised.
Freya’s wealth of knowledge and experience is one thing, but her sense of humour and openness is incomparable! Freya doesn’t indulge horror stories or ‘just you waits’ but also doesn’t sugar coat what to expect either.
I could not speak highly enough of our experience of Expecting Antenatal Classes and we both definitely feel more prepared now than we would ever have done without them.