About Our Service
The Department of Parent Education at the Coombe Hospital is dedicated to supporting parents during the critical first 1000 days of life, encompassing pregnancy, labour, birth, perinatal mental health, infant feeding, early childhood development, and parenting programmes. Our mission is rooted in the belief that empowering parents with up-to-date, evidence-based information and participative learning provides some of the most impactful support during this transformative time.
In alignment with the National Standards for Antenatal Education in Ireland (2020), we are committed to delivering the highest standards of antenatal and postnatal education. Our approach caters to all types of adult learners through interactive and participative learning methods, ensuring that all parents—regardless of the type of birth they are preparing for or their parenting choices—feel empowered to take ownership of their experiences and make informed decisions.
We strongly believe in the power of education and peer support to build and sustain communities. By working collaboratively with multiple agencies, we aim to achieve the best possible outcomes for children from conception to three years of age. Our classes and video resources are thoughtfully designed to address the diverse needs of parents, fostering confidence and creating a supportive foundation for the journey ahead.
Email: classbookings@coombe.ie
Online Interactive Antenatal Classes
Classes for Parents
The Parent Education Department offers both in-person and online interactive antenatal classes to all women registered at The Coombe Hospital.
Booking registration is available from 24 weeks of pregnancy. It is highly recommended that you complete your booking by 28 weeks to ensure your preferred options are available and you get maximum benefits from your chosen classes.
Parent Education Videos & Classes
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Parent Education - Labour & Birth
Every woman’s labour is different and it can be difficult to know when labour has actually started. While some experience a sudden onset, most have a gradual lead-in.
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Parent Education - Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time which brings many changes to a woman’s body and it is important that you are aware of what to expect and what you can do to help yourself during this time.
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Parent Education - Parenting
Having a baby is an incredibly precious time of a woman’s life and although there can be challenges along the way, it is a whole new chapter in your life.
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Parent Education - Classes
The Coombe Hospital offers free online and in-person antenatal classes, including birth preparation, hypnobirthing, breastfeeding, and VBAC
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Parent Education - Class Dates
Stay informed on best practices for you and your baby. Find out where the latest Coombe Parent Education Online and In Person Classes are happening here.
Birth Dynamics
Birth Dynamics is a programme of antenatal education which we have developed at The Coombe Hospital to support you through labour and optimise physiological birth.
Birth Dynamics refers to the forces that impact on the birthing process and is a toolkit for labour which uses techniques and supports to enhance both the labour process and your experience of birth. .
Parent Education Handouts
Birth Preferences
As you work through your antenatal education we advise that you and your birth partner develop your preferences for birth. Although your situation may change as pregnancy/labour/birth progresses it is still a great idea to have your birth preferences written down so you can take it to the hospital with you.
Minding Me
This is an Minding Me designed booklet titled Looking after your Mental Health during Pregnancy and Beyond, providing advice and support information for expectant and new mothers, anyone planning a pregnancy or partners, grandparents, family and friends that may be supporting someone who is expecting or has a baby.
HSE
This is an HSE designed workbook titled Post Birth Wellbeing Plan, to help you to prepare for post birth.
This is to encourage you to think about and name some useful things/people that can help you adjust to your newrole as a mother/parent.
Hospital Bag
For your convenience, we have thoughtfully compiled a comprehensive list of essential items that you should consider including in your hospital bag. This list is designed to help ensure you have everything you need during your stay. Alternatively, feel free to visit our webpage for more information and resources.
FAQs
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For all information on classes available please visit our Parent Education webpage at https://www.coombe.ie/parent-education.
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To book for classes please email classbookings@coombe.ie
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No all classes provided at the Coombe are free of charge for all parents.
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Yes, partners or birth companions are encouraged and very welcome to attend all parent education classes.
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We advise that all women attend an Early Pregnancy Class between 16-18 weeks of pregnancy.
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We advise all parents to commence their Preparation for Birth and Parenting programme at 28 weeks of pregnancy.
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Yes, Hypnobirthing is available to all parents attending the Coombe and is free of charge.
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Yes we offer face to face classes in Dublin 8, 10 and 22. Places for these classes are limited so very early booking is advised.
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Yes online classes are facilitated for parents on weekday evenings and at weekends.
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Yes, we offer a refresher progamme for second/third time etc parents which is designed for women who have had a previous vaginal birth. We also offer a Birth Choices/VBAC class for women who are preparing for a vaginal birth following a previous caesarean birth or who want to explore their options.
Choose The Right Care For You
Our clinics offer tailored care for every stage of a woman’s life, from family planning and maternity to menopause and beyond. Whether you choose Public, Semi-Private, or Private services, we are here to provide expert, compassionate care that supports your health and well-being every step of the way.
Public Clinic
If you are living and working in Ireland and have the PRSI contributions or you have a medical card you can access free maternity and newborn care.
Semi Private Clinic
The semi-private clinic is a fee based option. Most women who choose this clinic use private health insurance to cover costs. .
Private Clinic
There are a number of consultant obstetricians offering services through our private clinic. Antenatal care fees vary between consultants..
Patient Experience
Every patient’s path to diagnosis and treatment is individual. No matter your specific journey, we believe in empowering you to take an active role in your healthcare.
Departments & Services
Help & Support
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Appointments:
All appointments can be directed through Hospital reception: 01 408 5200, 24 hours a day -
Health Insurance:
We operate a direct payment scheme with VHI, Laya Healthcare, Irish Life Health, Garda Medical Aid, ESB, Medical Provident Fund, and Prison Officers Medical Aid. If you are covered by any of these insurers, the relevant insurance forms are signed electronically on your admission to hospital.
Fees:
For more information on Fees - visit our Hospital Charges page -
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The Resource Page:
Browse our collection of patient resources, brochures, and information leaflets—all in one place. Downloadable and easy to access, these documents cover everything from appointments and procedures to maternity, newborn care, and more.
Contact Us
Tel: 01 408 5200
Find Us
The Coombe Hospital
Switchboard:
Location:
Cork St, Dublin, D08 XW7X