Prenatal Education and Support

Prenatal care is vital for the health and well-being of both you and your baby. Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) offers free, comprehensive prenatal education to support parents in Oxford, Elgin, and St. Thomas through online and in-person options.

If you live outside these areas, please contact your local health unit to learn about available support. 

Free online prenatal classes

Get ready for life with your baby from home! Our online prenatal classes cover important topics like pregnancy, childbirth, and caring for your newborn. Each class includes:

• Videos that explain key topics
• Interactive activities to help you learn
• Fun quizzes to check what you know
• Helpful links and resources you can download
• A parent’s toolbox with extra tools and tips

How can I join online prenatal classes?

1. Register online: Complete our online form to sign up
2. Confirmation email: You’ll receive an email with a validation code to confirm your registration
3. Access anytime: Enjoy free access to the classes for 365 days starting from your first login

Note: If you live outside Oxford County, Elgin County or St. Thomas, please contact your local health unit for support and resources. 

In-person prenatal information sessions

Expecting a baby in 2025? Join us at Pregnancy 101: Things You Need to Know, our free in-person prenatal sessions at EarlyON Woodstock. Designed to complement our online classes, these sessions offer hands-on learning and valuable insights from local experts.

These sessions are designed for pregnant individuals who are 32 weeks or later and living in Oxford County. Partners or support persons are also encouraged to attend to ensure a well-rounded and supportive learning experience.

Session details

 Sessions are held once a month and alternating between Thursday evening and Saturday morning. Please select one of the 2 hour sessions.

Location: EarlyON Woodstock, 75 Graham St.

Dates and times:

• February 20, 2025, at 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
• March 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
• April 17, 2025, at 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
• May 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
• June 19, 2025, at 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
• September 20, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

How can I join in-person prenatal sessions?

1. Sign up for online prenatal classes
2. Register for an in-person session to reserve your spot

What do I need to know if I need medical help?

If you experience pain, bleeding, or anything that feels wrong, contact your healthcare provider right away. If it's an emergency, go to the nearest emergency department or call 9-1-1.

Looking for more child and family health resources?

If you're needing more Child and Family Health resources, we have options to help you:

• Sign up for breastfeeding support – Receive breastfeeding support from our Public Health Nurses.
• Join the Healthy Babies, Healthy Children Program – A province-wide program that offers support to pregnant women & families with children from newborn to school aged.