Maternity

Having a baby is a life-changing experience—whether it's your first or your last child.

Having the services you need right when and where you need them during this time is a given with the maternity services offered by Wairarapa DHB, often in partnership with other local organisations like Whaiora Whanui, Parents Centre, Plunket and the Independent Midwives.

Pregnancy and parenting classes

'Pregnancy and Parenting' classes are a great way to make new friends, and meet others who will be sharing the same joys and concerns that you may have. Time and again, women tell us how important this is both during pregnancy, and in the first year or two of your baby's life.

If you would just prefer:

a personal talk with a midwife
a tour around the unit
or to see a birthing video

contact 'Pregnancy and Parenting' midwife Michelle Thomas on (06) 946 9800 x 4200, or email preggy@wairarapa.dhb.org.nz

'Pregnancy and Parenting' classes are provided in conjunction with experienced childbirth educators from the Wairarapa Parents Centre. We really enjoy being involved in this wonderful time of preparation for the birth of each new baby. We invite you to bring your partner and/or supporters to the classes.

Classes are a great time to learn together and enjoy the company of others who are also going to become parents, or play an important role in your life as a new family.

It is an opportunity to talk together with other parents about options and choices in maternity care and parenting issues, including the lifestyle changes involved in becoming a parent.

Learn about:

Health in pregnancy
Labour and birth
Coping with pain
Breastfeeding
Care of your newborn baby
Relaxation techniques
Where to find help when you need it

Young parent 'Pregnancy and Parenting' Classes

Young parents often face additional challenges as they strive to do what is best for themselves and their babies. DHB 'Pregnancy and Parenting' midwife Michelle Thomas runs classes designed to meet the needs of expectant teenage mums and their partners and/or support team. The classes are held year round on an 'as needed' basis. You can contact Michelle through Maternity reception on 946 9800 x 4200

General Class information

The DHB contracts our local Parent's Centre to provide all other antenatal education classes. Each series has eight sessions.

It is good to book early for your classes - any time from 12 weeks pregnancy. You usually start classes when you are around 6 months pregnant. Booking in advance to ensure we have the right amount of teaching materials, though no-one will be turned away.

Class start dates for 2010

Classes start most months, depending on demand.

Please book your place emailing preggy@wairarapa.dhb.org.nz

Or phone reception 946 9800 x4200 and ask to book a place.
Remember that South Wairarapa residents can freephone on 0800 946 9800.

Wairarapa Hospital Maternity Unit

If you choose or need to have your baby at Wairarapa Hospital, be assured our facilities and staff combine to provide you with a safe, supportive environment in which to have your baby.

We have three delivery rooms, two of which can access the labour pool pictured below.

Bedrooms have their own ensuite bathrooms, and babies room-in with mothers to support bonding and the establishment of breastfeeding. We are a 'baby friendly' accredited hospital, which means we have the training, policies, procedures and facilities to support you to successfully breastfeed if this is your choice.