GP-led antenatal classes in Ringwood & the New Forest
Comprehensive, evidence-based preparation for birth and the early weeks, taught by a practising NHS GP and mum.
Small groups, with partners fully included
👩⚕️Designed and led by an NHS GP
🩺Diploma in Obstetrics & Gynaecology
🤝Small Class Sizes
📍Ringwood, Hampshire
The GP-led difference
Antenatal classes that go beyond the basics
Many antenatal classes give a general overview of the birth process. Baby Steps GP bridges the gap between lifestyle preparation and medical reality.
Led by a practising local NHS GP, our sessions give you evidence-based, medically sound and compassionate guidance, in line with current obstetric practice.
- Medically Accurate
- Based on current NHS and national guidance, and enriched by the personal experiences of Dr Meg and of other new parents.
- Intimate Community
- Limited places on each course mean a tailored experience and full interaction for every parent, and help foster real friendships.
- Practical and Positive
- Empowering, partner-focused preparation for birth and the early weeks.
Our offer
Two paths to birth preparation
Choose the setting that best suits your family’s preferences. Both pathways are designed and taught by Dr Meg.
Group Antenatal Classes
Build a reliable support network with other local parents in Hampshire. Places are limited on each course, so the teaching stays interactive and tailored, covering everything from the early signs of labour to supporting your family in the first few weeks.
Private 1-2-1 Sessions
Bespoke antenatal education at a time and place that suits you. Ideal if you’d like more time on particular topics, had a difficult previous birth and want to understand your options, or need flexible scheduling.
Meet Dr Meg Woodrow
Dr Meg Woodrow is a practising NHS GP with a diploma from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Recognising a real gap in how new parents are prepared for the medical side of labour and the postnatal weeks, she founded Baby Steps GP.
As a GP and a mum of two, Meg knows both the medical side and the real-life side of becoming a parent. She combines up-to-date, evidence-based knowledge with warmth and honesty, helping you make informed choices and feel prepared and confident on your journey to parenthood.
What you’ll learn
Comprehensive Evidence-Based Curriculum
Labour and Birth
Understanding the stages of labour, the mechanics of birth, and what to expect on the day, plus how to support your physical and mental health and prepare physically for early parenthood.
Pain Relief Options
An unbiased, detailed guide to medical pain relief and natural comfort measures.
Breastfeeding and Feeding
How breastfeeding works, positioning, troubleshooting, engorgement, pumping and expressing, and bottle-feeding options.
Newborn Care and Practicalities
Bathing, safe sleep, the first weeks at home, knowing when to seek help, and an honest take on what you really need. We also cover recognising allergies and feeding issues, basic first aid, and strategies to manage and reduce colic and reflux.
Partner’s Role
Hands-on tools for partners to advocate, soothe and support, with a focus on looking after their own mental wellbeing and finding your shared role as a team.
Postnatal Recovery
Navigating physical recovery, mental wellbeing, and hormonal changes.
Parent testimonials
Loved by Expectant Families
Hear from some of the many parents who started their journey with Baby Steps GP.
I honestly don’t know how I would have navigated the newborn days (and beyond) without Dr Meg.
From supporting my c-section recovery to answering endless questions during those hazy early weeks, she has been a constant, reassuring presence.
Her advice has always been kind, practical, and completely free of judgement, no question has ever felt too small or silly.
Imogen & Jack – 2025
Dr Meg gave us useful, easy to understand advice that was actually helpful.
The beauty of her being a doctor is that she can make you feel at ease and has the knowledge for any questions you may have.
Her having her own child as well, means she knows first hand how hard the first few weeks can be and she makes sure you’re aware of the reality (and joys) of labour, the aftermath and what’s to come. No questions are too silly.
Chloe & Joel – 2025
This was incredibly helpful as a first-time parent.
Dr Meg gave expert advice and was clear and practical it was a very relaxed experience, and she made it easy to ask questions.
Highly recommend if you want to feel more confident and connected before baby arrives.
Adele & Conrad – 2025
Free guides for expectant parents
Two free guides to help you feel prepared. No sign-up needed.
Early pregnancy guide
The first 12 weeks: the appointments to expect, what’s common, when to get help, and questions to ask your midwife.
Hospital bag checklist
A tick-off list for you, your baby and your birth partner. Save it on your phone or print it.
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common practical questions about our antenatal courses
When should I start antenatal classes?
We recommend starting between 20 and 30 weeks pregnant, but it’s never too early to book your place. If you’re earlier on, our free guide to the first 12 weeks is a good place to start, and the NHS guide to antenatal care explains what to expect from your midwife appointments.
I’m early in my pregnancy. Where should I start?
Congratulations! There’s no rush to book a class. A good place to start is our free guide to the first 12 weeks, which covers the appointments to expect, what’s common and when to get help. Your midwife and GP will guide your care, and the NHS pregnancy guide has trusted information for every stage. When you’re ready, you can see our upcoming dates.
Why choose a GP-led class?
Everything you learn is designed and taught by a practising GP with additional training in obstetrics and gynaecology, so it’s accurate, up to date and evidence-based. You’ll understand the medical side of birth and the early weeks well enough to ask the right questions of your own care team, and make choices that feel right for you. You can read more about Meg’s background on the About page.
What do the classes cover?
From labour and birth preparation to feeding, newborn care, partner support and postnatal recovery. See the full curriculum for what happens in each session.
Can my partner attend?
Absolutely. Partners are fully included in every session, with time dedicated to their role during labour, in the first weeks at home, and in looking after themselves too. The £150 course price covers you and your birth partner, and our hospital bag checklist even has a section for them.
Where are the classes held?
Group classes take place in Ringwood, Hampshire, and the full address is sent in your booking confirmation. Private sessions can be arranged at a time and place that suits you. See upcoming dates.
What should I bring to the class?
Wear comfortable clothes you can move in, as some sessions include practical activities such as trying out labour positions, and bring a drink. Your birth partner is welcome to join you. If you or your partner have any access needs or health conditions, please tell us beforehand so we can support you.
What if I need to cancel or move my booking?
Please email admin@babystepsgp.co.uk as soon as you can. You can cancel within 14 days of booking for a full refund, as long as your course hasn’t started. After that, if there are more than 6 weeks before your course starts, you can transfer to another course (subject to space, with a £25 admin fee) or cancel for a 75% refund. Closer to the start date, options are more limited, so please get in touch and we’ll do our best to help. If your baby arrives early or you’re unwell, we’ll offer you a later course or a refund for the sessions you missed. The full details are in our Terms and Conditions.
Will Dr Meg give me medical advice?
No. Our classes are education, not medical consultations. Meg shares up-to-date, evidence-based information about pregnancy, birth and early parenthood, but she can’t advise on your individual health or your baby. For that, your midwife, GP and maternity team are always the right people to speak to. If you’re worried about yourself or your baby, contact your maternity unit, use NHS 111, or call 999 in an emergency. The NHS pregnancy guide is also a trusted place to read more.
Do you recommend baby products?
There’s a lot of pressure to buy, and most families need far less than they’re told. Meg shares her honest perspective as a mum of two during the course. We have no sponsorships, affiliate links or brand partnerships, and our hospital bag checklist sticks to the essentials without naming any brands.
Ready to feel prepared?
Spaces are limited so everyone gets personalised guidance and the chance to connect with other parents. Book your antenatal course today and take the first step towards a confident birth.