Antenatal classes in Singapore: When to book, costs and how to choose

If you are expecting your first baby, an antenatal class can turn some of the unknowns around labour, newborn care and those first days at home into something more manageable. But with different hospitals, private providers, formats and prices available in Singapore, it can be difficult to know when to book or which one is worth your time. 

This guide covers when to book an antenatal class in Singapore, what you will learn, how much classes cost, and how to choose a programme that suits you, your partner and your birth plans. 

When should you book an antenatal class?

Most programmes are designed for the second or third trimester, when you are close enough to your due date for the information to feel relevant. 

Start researching your options at 16 to 20 weeks, then aim to attend the class during the later part of your pregnancy. This gives you time to compare schedules and secure a place without taking the class so early that you forget what you learned before labour. 

If you are expecting twins or have a pregnancy complication, speak with your doctor or maternity care team about the best timing for you. 

💡 Supermom tip: If weekend classes are your only realistic option, check availability early. These sessions may be harder to fit around work and family commitments. 

What do antenatal classes in Singapore cover?

The exact programme depends on the provider, but most antenatal classes cover practical information you can use before, during and after birth. 

You may learn about: 

• Labour and birth: the stages of labour, what contractions may feel like and what happens during delivery
• Pain management: breathing, relaxation, movement and medical pain relief options
• Birth positions: positions and techniques that may help you stay comfortable during labour
• Breastfeeding: basic positioning, attachment and common early challenges
• Newborn care: bathing, changing nappies, handling and settling your baby
• Postnatal recovery: what to expect physically and emotionally after birth
• Partner support: practical ways your partner can support you during labour and after delivery 

The hands-on element can be particularly useful. Reading about how to position yourself during a contraction is different from actually practising the position with an instructor who can guide you. 

How much do antenatal classes cost in Singapore? 

The cost of antenatal classes in Singapore varies depending on the hospital, course format and whether you choose a hospital or private provider. 

These are the current published fees on the respective hospital websites and may change, so check the provider’s registration page before paying ^[1]. 

Private childbirth educators may charge more depending on the class size, programme length and specialisation. Some focus on approaches such as hypnobirthing, active birth or other specific birth preparation techniques ^[2]. 

It is also important to budget for the class separately from your medical care. The MediSave Maternity Package covers eligible pre-delivery medical expenses, delivery procedures and hospitalisation charges. Antenatal education fees are not listed among these covered categories, so do not assume your class fee can be paid through MediSave ^[3]. 

Should you choose a hospital or private antenatal class? 

There is no single best antenatal class in Singapore. The right choice depends on what you want to learn and how you prefer to learn it. 

1. Hospital-based antenatal classes 

A hospital programme can be a good choice if you want a broad introduction to childbirth and newborn care from healthcare professionals. 

KKH’s programme, for example, is conducted by lactation consultants, midwives, physiotherapists and parentcraft nurses and covers labour and delivery, breastfeeding and newborn care. SGH also offers an intensive programme, while NUH provides normal, express and online options ^[1]. 

A hospital class may also be useful if you plan to deliver there and want to become familiar with the hospital’s processes. 

2. Private childbirth classes 

Private providers may suit parents looking for smaller groups, more flexibility or a particular birth philosophy. 

Some programmes focus more deeply on specific approaches such as hypnobirthing, active birth or partner-led techniques ^[2]. They may also offer intensive weekend courses or additional support outside the main classes. 

Before booking, check exactly what is included. A class that costs more is not necessarily more comprehensive. 

3. Online antenatal classes in Singapore

Online classes are useful if you have a busy schedule, are placed on a waiting list or prefer learning at your own pace. 

For example, NUH currently offers more than five hours of on-demand video content with two years of access for S$50 ^[1]. 

The trade-off is that online learning gives you less opportunity for hands-on practice and immediate feedback. 

What should you look for when choosing an antenatal class? 

Instead of choosing based only on price or location, compare these five things: 

1. What is covered?
Check whether the programme includes labour, pain relief, breastfeeding, newborn care and postnatal recovery. If you have specific priorities, make sure they are actually included. 

2. Who teaches it?
Look for qualified healthcare professionals or experienced childbirth educators, depending on the type of class you want. 

3. How big is the class?
Smaller groups may give you more opportunity to ask questions and practise techniques. Larger classes can still work well if you mainly want structured information. 

4. What format suits you?
A one-day intensive course may be easier if you work full-time, while weekly sessions give you more time to absorb and practise the information. Online learning offers the most flexibility. 

5. Can your partner attend?
Ask whether your partner is included in the fee and whether they are expected to attend every session. Some programmes are specifically designed to teach partners practical support techniques. 

How to make the most of your antenatal class 

Go in with a list of questions rather than expecting to remember everything. 

Ask about the things you are most likely to wonder about at 2am, such as: 

• When should I go to the hospital?
• What happens if my birth plan changes?
• What pain relief options are available?
• How can my partner help during contractions?
• What should I prepare before bringing my baby home?
• When should I seek help with breastfeeding? 

If there is a delivery suite tour, pay attention to practical details such as where to check in and what happens when you arrive. Knowing the basic process beforehand can make the day feel less unfamiliar. 

Most importantly, remember that an antenatal class is preparation, not a prediction. Your labour, birth and feeding experience may not follow exactly what you practise in class. The goal is to help you understand your options, ask better questions and feel more prepared when things change. 

Give yourself time to find the right fit 

You do not need to find the most expensive or most comprehensive antenatal class in Singapore. You need one that fits your pregnancy, schedule, budget and learning style. 

Start looking around 16 to 20 weeks, compare what each programme actually covers, and book early if you have your heart set on a particular hospital or weekend slot. 

References 

1. National University Hospital. Community Antenatal Programme. Accessed 2 September 2026.  https://www.nuh.com.sg/care-at-nuh/specialties/women-and-childrens-health/community-antenatal-programme. 

2. Thomson Medical. Antenatal Classes in Singapore: Are They Worth It? Accessed 2 September 2026. https://www.thomsonmedical.com/blog/antenatal-classes-singapore. 

3. CPF Board. What you need to know about the MediSave Maternity Package. Accessed 2 September 2026. https://www.cpf.gov.sg/member/infohub/educational-resources/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-medisave-maternity-package.