Fit For Birth Antenatal Classes 2.06

Fit For Birth Antenatal Classes are run by Amanda Sullivan (MCSP, BSc Hons), a Chartered Physiotherapist and a full member of Pelvic, Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy (POGP) - Formerly ACPWH (Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Women's Health). Amanda has been specialising in Women’s Health (pregnancy and continence care) since 1999 and works in both the NHS and her own private clinic; Amanda Sullivan Physiotherapy:
www.pelvichealthphysio.co.uk
The clinic is based at The Old Rectory Clinic in Iron Acton.
www.theoldrectoryclinic.co.uk

Amanda has worked part time since the birth of her two children who are now seventeen and fourteen years old.

Amanda established Fit For Birth antenatal classes in 2008 to meet the needs of the increasing number of women seeking more information on the practical aspects of pregnancy and labour and to enable couples the opportunity to attend together, at a convenient time for working families.

As a Specialist Physiotherapist in pregnancy, Amanda not only has extensive knowledge of the changes that occur during both pregnancy and the postnatal period but also the professional expertise and skills of how to reduce the physical and emotional stresses of pregnancy and labour. She has a vast experience of treating patients with pelvic pain in pregnancy and has taught antenatal classes for 15 years.

Amanda has also undertaken a two year postgraduate course in continence care, earning her postgraduate certificate in 2007. Since this time she has built up a wealth of experience in treating both female and male patients with incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic floor weakness (during pregnancy and after childbirth) and has a keen interest in manual therapy for chronic pelvic floor pain after completing a course with Maeve Whelan (PelvicPhysiotherapy.com).

Fit For Birth classes consist of five one hour classes (four antenatal, one postnatal),where you will learn ways of practically coping with your labour and how to help yourself remain in control of your body using relaxation, breathing techniques and positions. As well as preparing you for labour, you will also be given expert advice on how to care for your body in the later stages of pregnancy and the early postnatal period and how to help relieve pregnancy aches and pains such as pelvic pain in pregnancy. The classes will also give you the opportunity to meet and share experiences with other mums to be in your local area.

The classes are designed to be both informal and friendly with an emphasis on the importance of birth partners, who are welcome to attend each session. The classes are suitable both for first time parents and those parents who already have a child/children and are seeking a useful refresher.