If you are pregnant, it is important to start your NHS maternity care as early as possible.

You can usually refer yourself directly to an NHS maternity service without seeing a GP first. After you refer yourself, the maternity service will contact you to arrange your first appointment with a midwife. Where possible, your first midwife appointment should take place by the time you are 10 weeks pregnant.

If you are already more than 10 weeks pregnant, you should still refer yourself as soon as possible.

If you have a long-term health condition or take regular medication, you should also speak to your GP or specialist so that your condition and medicines can be reviewed during pregnancy.

Refer yourself for NHS pregnancy care:
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/refer-yourself-for-nhs-pregnancy-care/

NHS Pregnancy and Baby Advice

The NHS Best Start in Life service provides trusted information and guidance throughout pregnancy and after your baby is born.

You can find advice about:

• Your pregnancy week by week

• Healthy eating, vitamins and medicines during pregnancy

• Preparing for labour and birth

• Feeding your baby

• Caring for your newborn

• Baby development and bonding

• Parental health and wellbeing

NHS – Best Start in Life:
https://www.nhs.uk/best-start-in-life/

Need Help?

Your midwife should usually be your first point of contact for questions or concerns relating to your pregnancy.

You can also contact your GP practice if you have a health concern that is not directly related to your pregnancy or if you need advice about an existing medical condition or regular medication.

For trusted information throughout pregnancy and early parenthood, always use NHS guidance or advice provided by your maternity team.