Aquanatal Classes for Mums and Dads
Dads-to-be in Barrow-in-Furness can now take part in aquanatal classes with their pregnant partners. The evening service was set up in October at a local pool by Sure Start Barrow with the Barrow Dads’ Group and has been well-received by expectant couples.
“We know that aquanatal classes are good for mothers, because the sense of weightlessness is very relaxing and it brings their blood pressure down,” said Dave Morrison, the Dads’ Group manager.
“Allowing fathers in too gives them a chance to bond with the mother and child in a relaxed time outside normal work time. It’s free, transport can be provided to pick up the parents and there is time at the beginning to do things like check blood pressures and, at the end, for a chat and catch up on how things are going.
“At first some of the fathers feel uncomfortable because it is an unknown to them, but, once they have been, they really enjoy it. The service has really caught on and we’re finding that couples are using the time to make friends with other couples.”
The previous existing service, for women only, is continuing on another evening, said Dave Morrison, who praised local midwives for backing the initiative.
dave.morrison@surestart-barrow.nhs.uk
Tags: Maternity
