Telling your GP and/or Midwife promptly will help to make sure you receive maternity healthcare that takes into account all your health needs and preferences. You can book an appointment with your GP or directly with your Midwife as soon as you know that you’re pregnant.
It’s best to see them as early as possible to obtain the information you need to have a healthy pregnancy and because some tests, such as screening for sickle cell and thalassaemia should be done before you’re 10 weeks’ pregnant.
Midwife
The Midwife works with the Doctor to give care to women having a baby, both before birth and for ten days after the baby is delivered.
After initial booking with the doctor the midwife attached to the Practice will contact you to arrange your booking. This may be done at home or in the surgery. At the appointment the midwife will plan your care throughout your pregnancy, birth and aftercare.
Midwife clinics are held at the surgery on Tuesdays each week and they can be contacted on 01225 824669.
After your baby has been born, an appointment will be sent to you for your baby’s 6-week check and your own postnatal check. The midwives will visit you at home as necessary, usually up until 10 days. Please ensure your discharge summary is handed in to the Practice.
The role of the midwife
A Midwife is a qualified nurse who has undertaken further training to provide and promote normal midwifery.
They help you to prepare for motherhood and promote good health for yourself and your baby by advising on the effects of drinking, smoking and good diet whilst you are pregnant.
The Midwife guides you through your pregnancy and endeavours to detect any problems and make relevant referrals if necessary.
Healthy Start
Healthy Start is a government scheme that aims to improve the health of pregnant women and mothers on benefits or low incomes. If you are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4 you may be entitled to get help to buy healthy food and milk.
Your antenatal care
When you first learn that you’re pregnant, get in touch with a Midwife or GP as soon as possible. Ideally this should be by 10 weeks of your pregnancy. Telling your GP and/or Midwife promptly will help to make sure you receive maternity healthcare that takes into account all your health needs and preferences.