Most hospitals offer prenatal classes (Geburtsvorbereitung). They also offer prenatal exercise classes covering breathing and relaxation techniques along with birthing positions. Prenatal classes are very visual and therefore also suitable for those with limited German understanding plus it is likely that someone there will be happy to translate a few things, if necessary.
The following organizations may also be very useful during this time:
Geburtsinfo.wien
This is a website hosted by the city of Vienna that answers many pregnancy and childbirth-related questions as well as giving an overview of the many maternity services provided by the nine public hospitals. Their website is in six languages, including English. Most importantly, this site includes details about the prenatal classes organized by the family midwives (Familienhebammen) of the Municipal Department MA15.
Hebammenzentrum – Verein Freier Hebammen
This midwife center offers information and advice for parents-to-be. They also offer an antenatal course in English that contains valuable information; teaches exercises that can help during labour and delivery; and provides a forum to ask questions and exchange with other couples.
Nanaya Zentrum
Nanaya is a centre for pregnancy, birth and life with children. They have a programme in English, which includes prenatal classes, as well as a variety of services for after the birth.
And of course, Vienna Family Network
Our VFN baby groups are there to provide support and reassurance to parents-to-be. Our baby groups are often active up to 6 months before the due date, allowing our member parents plenty of time to support one another, through asking questions and exchanging tips, as they prepare together for one of life’s greatest adventures.