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FAQs
Most commonly asked questions about Birth Prep with Joy courses and workshops
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What is included in your antenatal course?My in person antenatal courses cover everything you need to prepare for birth and the early days with your baby. Labour and birth - from early signs to your baby's arrival Caesarean birth and induction of labour Pain relief options - self help, medical and non-medical Baby care basics - nappy changing, baby bathing, safer sleeping, baby behaviour Feeding your baby - breastfeeding, formula feeding or both Postnatal recovery and relationships - expectations and self- care Bonus Extras - Hypnobirthing workbook - 6 hypobirthing MP3 scripts - Caesarean birth relaxations - Tailored hypnobirthing scripts - MP3 relaxation tracks for feeding - Online resources hub - 1:1 support when needed - Course goodie bag It's not just a class. It's a supportive space to explore all your options, ask your questions and get the guidance you need to feel confident.
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Can my partner come too?Absolutely! Birth partners, co-parents, and support people are fully included in the course. I create a welcome space for them to feel just as confident, informed and supported as mum does.
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Where do the courses take place?All courses take place at the Low Port Centre, Linlithgow, West Lothian. The venue is fully accessible with free parking and a five minute walk from Linlithgow train station. Most sessions run in the evenings but there are weekend courses too to fit around your schedule. There is a maximum of 9 couples per course so that I can offer 1:1 support and tailor the course to meet your needs.
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When should I book?I recommend booking between 20-31 weeks of pregnancy (for a 5 week course) but there is scope to leave it a bit later if you are doing a weekend course. Ideally the course should be completed before 37 weeks of pregnancy but I am flexible and happy to discuss booking needs.
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Is this like an NHS antenatal courseThink of it as the next step up. We diver deeper than the NHS classes, exploring not just the 'what' but also the why and how. This course is designed for people who want more than a one-size-fits-all approach. You'll leave with the tools, clarity and confidence to make informed choices about what feels right for you.
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Can I attend on my own, or what if I miss part of the course?You’re absolutely welcome to attend on your own — whether you’re a solo parent or just prefer to attend without a partner, the course is all about you and what feels best for you. If you do miss part of the course (life happens!), don’t worry — I’ve got you covered. We can catch you up on anything you missed, either with a short one-on-one Zoom session or by providing all the materials you need. You’ll never feel left behind. This is your journey, and I’m here to support you, no matter what!
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Is it suitable if I have had a baby before?Absolutely! Whether it’s your first baby or your third, this course is designed to support you at any stage of your pregnancy journey. For those who have had a baby before, this course offers an opportunity to refresh your knowledge, explore new techniques, and learn how to approach birth and baby care with even more confidence. Each birth is unique, and the course will give you the tools to feel empowered, no matter what your previous experience was. It’s all about providing the support and clarity you need — even if you’ve been through it before.
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Is the course suitable if I am expecting twins or more?Absolutely! Expecting twins or multiples is a unique and exciting journey, and this course is tailored to give you the tools and confidence you need — whether you’re having one baby or more. While the course focuses on general birth preparation and baby care, we’ll also talk through the specific needs of multiple births and how to handle those extra little ones! From managing labour to caring for newborn twins (or more), I’ll make sure you’re fully supported and feel confident for what’s ahead.
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What is hypnobirthing and does it work?Hypnobirthing is a set of relaxation, breathing, and mindset techniques designed to help you stay calm, focused, and in control during labour. Think of it as a tool that allows you to embrace your birth experience, rather than fear it. It helps reduce stress, manage pain naturally, and empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions throughout the process. Does it work? Absolutely! Countless mums swear by it for making labour less stressful, more empowering, and often quicker. It’s about creating a calm, positive mindset — and when you feel calm, your body responds, helping you have the best possible birth experience for you and your baby. Do not use hypnobirthing downloads or practice the techniques or exercises contained within the course downloads whilst driving or operating machinery.
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Will you be able to provide medical advice during the course?I’m not a medical professional, but I’m here to support you with all the non-medical guidance you need to feel prepared, calm, and confident for birth and baby care. I’ll give you evidence-based, practical advice, but when it comes to medical questions or concerns, I’ll always refer you to your healthcare provider. That said, I’m always happy to talk through your options and help you make informed decisions every step of the way.
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I am concerned about ... and I am worried it might ...I want you to feel confident in your choice. If you have any questions during the course or before you book, please get in touch. I am happy to chat via text: â€07471 933644‬ or you can email info@birthprepwithjoy.com After you sign up, I'll reach out to welcome you and provide course details. I'll also ask if there's anything important I should know to tailor the course to your needs. Any information you share is held in strict confidence and is not shared with other course members. If needed, I can make adaptations to the course to better support your learning.
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Can I pay a deposit?Yes! You can reserve your spot with a 50% deposit of £87.50. The remaining balance is due 3 weeks before the start of the course. You’ll receive an invoice via email for the second payment. Please note, your place is not guaranteed until the full payment has been made. This ensures that your spot is secured and that we’re ready to welcome you into the course.
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What happens if my baby is born early?If your baby is born before 37 weeks and you haven’t yet started the course, don’t worry — we’ll issue a full refund. Your peace of mind is important to us. If your baby arrives early while you’re partway through the course, please reach out to me at info@birthprepwithjoy.com.
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What is your refund policy?You’ll receive a full refund if you cancel your booking 21 days or more before the course begins. If your baby is born before 37 weeks and you haven’t started the course, you will receive a full refund. Unfortunately, refunds are not available once the course has commenced. Refunds for other circumstances are at the sole discretion of Birth Prep With Joy. If you need to discuss your situation, please get in touch with me at info@birthprepwithjoy.com — I’m always happy to work with you on finding a solution.
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Terms and Conditions including Cancellation PolicyTerms and Conditions By signing up for, purchasing, or accessing any in-person or online courses or online content (website and social media) from Birth Prep with Joy, you are agreeing to the following: Payment Terms Your space on any course will be confirmed upon receipt of full payment. Refunds – If You Wish to Cancel Your Place A full refund will be given if cancellation is notified 21 days or more prior to the course commencement. Refunds are not available after the course has commenced. Refunds under any other circumstance are at the sole discretion of Birth Prep with Joy. Please contact us at info@birthprepwithjoy.com for assistance. Rescheduling of Dates / Changes of Venue For online courses, every effort will be made to rearrange sessions to suit you if required. Once sessions have been confirmed, rescheduling may not be possible. Birth Prep with Joy reserves the right to cancel, change, or alter the dates and venues of any course at any time. If the course changes from the advertised description and you are no longer able to attend, we will offer you a full refund or an alternative time/course at no extra cost. Important Things to Note The information shared by Birth Prep with Joy in courses, online, or in correspondence is not intended to replace medical advice. We are unable to comment or advise on any personal medical circumstances. If you have any concerns about your or your baby’s health or wellbeing, you should always contact your midwife or healthcare provider. Birth Prep with Joy accepts no responsibility for any decisions you make regarding your pregnancy and birth. Physical activity: Participation in any physical exercises, positions, or movements provided during the course should only be done when deemed safe by your midwife or healthcare team. You are responsible for ensuring that your space and equipment are safe to use during physical activities on the course. Birth Prep with Joy accepts no responsibility for injury caused by taking part in any physical activity on the course. If you experience any concerns during the course (including but not limited to bleeding, pain, reduced movement, dizziness, nausea, or any unusual symptoms), stop immediately and contact your midwife. Disclaimer Using Hypnobirthing techniques and other birth prep ideas discussed during an antenatal course is not a substitute for the advice or presence of a qualified medical practitioner, midwife, or obstetrician during pregnancy, labour, or birth. Any questions or doubts about the use of Hypnobirthing or the safety or appropriateness of this programme should be discussed with your medical caregiver before attending the course. Birth Prep with Joy accepts no responsibility for the inappropriate use of Hypnobirthing techniques or other birth prep ideas discussed during the course. Hypnobirthing is intended solely as an aid to increase the comfort of labour and birth, and is not a guarantee of any specific birth outcome. Participation in any part of the Antenatal or Hypnobirthing classes is done with the understanding that no legal action or claims for compensation, reimbursement, or refund will be made against Birth Prep with Joy at any time. Intellectual Property All course materials, recordings, and written content, as well as all associated intellectual property rights (including trademarks and copyrights), are the sole property of Birth Prep with Joy or those from whom such rights are derived. They are for the personal use of course participants only and may not be used for any other purpose without obtaining prior written permission. GDPR The participant agrees that Birth Prep with Joy shall hold your details on file and on computer in accordance with the GDPR Act 2018. You have the right to view, amend, or delete your individual file by giving no less than seven days' written notice. We treat your personal data with the utmost care and will keep only relevant information to process your booking. We will not sell or share your information with any third party. By engaging with any content, purchases, or otherwise from Birth Prep with Joy, you are agreeing to the above terms and conditions. If you have any questions regarding these terms, please contact Birth Prep with Joy at info@birthprepwithjoy.com.
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