How and when to take a pregnancy test You can carry out pregnancy tests from the first day of a missed period. If you do not know when your next period is due, do the test at least 21 days after you last had unprotected sex. Some very sensitive pregnancy tests can be used even […]
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What is the most reliable contraception? Contraception is a method or device for preventing pregnancy. Many forms of contraception are supplied for free by the NHS. Contraception can be used by men and women. No method of contraception is 100% effective – methods that last a long time (e.g. IUDs, see below) are the most effective because […]
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Who do I ask for breastfeeding support? There are many ways to access breastfeeding support in a way you find most convenient and comfortable: Community midwife Your community midwife will visit you the day after you come home from hospital, and then book ongoing appointments with you. The midwife will ask you how feeding is […]
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What do they do at 6 week baby check? There are two different types of postnatal check. Both are between 6-8 weeks after your baby is born. This is why they are often simply called ‘the 6 week checks’. They are both done with your GP, and the GP will send you an appointment for them. […]
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When should a newborn be examined? All parents are offered a thorough physical examination for their baby within 72 hours of giving birth. The midwife delivering your baby (whether you deliver in a hospital, birth centre or at home) will do a routine initial check when they are born. This mostly involves checking baby’s general […]
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Why do I feel down after giving birth? The most common cause of low mood after giving birth is the ‘Baby Blues’. This can affect up to three quarters of new mothers. Following childbirth an individual with the Baby Blues may experience: Tearfulness Changeable moods Anxiety Sadness Irritability A feeling of being overwhelmed. These feelings […]
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How can I speed up labour when I’m in labour? One of the questions that midwives get asked the most is “how can I make my labour go faster?” Every labour is different, however if you are worried about a long labour there are some safe ways to naturally aid progress. For more information about […]
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4 stages of labour Labour is commonly said to be split into four stages: Latent stage, also known as early labour. This is where contractions have started and may be irregular in their length, strength and frequency. This may come in waves and may not happen all the time. The cervix is starting to change […]
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10 tips to staying healthy after childbirth Once your baby is born, it can be a joyous but sometimes difficult time. Here are some top tips for looking after your health following delivery. 1. Don’t be afraid to accept and ask for help Sometimes there feels like there is pressure to be a ‘super mum’, to do […]
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What are 10 tips for a healthy pregnancy? Pregnancy can often seem like a rollercoaster physically and emotionally. However here are 10 tips for how to live well in pregnancy, and to keep healthy and enjoy your pregnancy. 1. Healthy foods give your body a boost Fruit and veg are great for helping mums and […]
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