Pub talk helps dads with mystery of childbirth

That curio is just one tip that expectant fathers will learn at an exclusively male antenatal class set to start in Launceston next month.

Childbirth education program Beer + Bubs has been run for seven years interstate but the monthly program will start in Tasmania for the first time on June 19.

While traditional antenatal classes may elicit groans from Launceston men, childbirth educator Sarah Behrmann said a pub's casual atmosphere was a surprisingly good fit for educating them on childbirth.

She said men could be unknowingly insensitive as their pregnant partner's hormones raged and the 2 1/2-hour class would give them some helpful hints in dealing with the emotionally charged time.

"Most guys like a beer and a meal in a pub and the information is delivered in a way that is short and punchy, giving them the essentials without all the medical and physiological jargon that they don't need to know," Ms Behrmann said.

"We cover how they can engage positively in birth and support their partners through different stages of labour, natural pain relief management and what to say and what not to say."

She said many men wanted to help their partners during childbirth but were clueless as to how they could, although simply being there the whole time was a huge help.

"It's invaluable for a mother to have their partner around during this time," Ms Behrmann said.

Beer and Bubs will be held at the Pizza Pub in Launceston. Go to www.beerandbubs. com.au for details.