The Department of Health is to offer childbirth education classes beginning next month.

The free lunchtime classes are aimed at preparing mothers-to-be for childbirth and the period immediately after the birth.

Sessions start on October 8 and provide expectant mothers with tips on topics from breastfeeding to infant massage. There will also be health care professionals speaking on a variety of topics of motherhood.

A Health Ministry spokesperson said: "Childbirth education classes are vital for expectant mothers hoping to enjoy a healthy pregnancy and labour.

"They not only equip women [and their partners] with essential information, but also help to demystify the birthing experience thus removing a kind of 'fear of the unknown', especially in the case of first-time mothers."

Just as one shouldn't enter a marathon without training beforehand, the spokesperson said neither should they go through labour without vital tools to prepare them for the "big day".

The classes will take place at Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI). Attendees are advised to wear loose, comfortable clothing. Most classes start at 12 p.m.

For more information call Rachel Card on 278-6441 or e-mail mcard@gov.bm.