Finding out you’re pregnant is a major milestone, but many people are surprised to learn that you usually do not need to see a GP to start your pregnancy care.
In 2026, the NHS has shifted toward a “Self-Referral First” model. This bypasses the 8am phone rush and gets you directly into the maternity system. Here is exactly who to contact and how to do it.
As soon as you have a positive pregnancy test, your first point of contact should be your local midwifery service. You should aim to do this as early as possible—ideally before you are 8–10 weeks pregnant.
How to Contact Them
The NHS Website/App: Most areas in England now use a central maternity self-referral portal. You can search “Refer myself for NHS pregnancy care” on the NHS website.
Trust Websites: Search for your local hospital’s “Maternity” or “Antenatal” department. Most provide a simple online form (like BadgerNotes, eConsult, or Medway) to submit your details.
Direct Phone Line: If you aren’t comfortable with online forms, most maternity units have a “Booking Office” phone number listed on their website.
While the midwife handles routine pregnancy, you should contact your GP surgery if:
You take regular medication: Some medicines for blood pressure, epilepsy, or mental health may need to be adjusted immediately for a safe pregnancy.
You have a long-term condition: Such as diabetes, asthma, or heart issues.
You have concerns about the pregnancy: Such as pain, spotting, or severe morning sickness (Hyperemesis Gravidarum).
Note: If you are registered with a GP, the midwifery team will automatically update your doctor about your pregnancy after your first “booking” appointment.
Once you have submitted your self-referral, the system kicks into gear. Here is what to expect:
| Milestone | What Happens |
| Weeks 0–8 | Self-Referral: You submit your form or call the booking office. |
| Weeks 8–10 | Booking Appointment: Your first long meeting with a midwife to discuss your health, medical history, and screening options. |
| Weeks 11–14 | Dating Scan: Your first ultrasound to see the baby and determine your “Due Date.” |
While you wait for your first appointment, you don’t need to stay in the dark.
The NHS App: Use this to track your medical record and see if your referral has been processed.
Start4Life: An NHS service that sends weekly emails tailored to your stage of pregnancy with advice on vitamins (like Folic Acid and Vitamin D), diet, and exercise.
Pharmacy First: If you have minor ailments (like a UTI or thrush) during early pregnancy, your local pharmacist can often advise you without a GP appointment.
Take a test to confirm (home tests are highly accurate).
Find your local hospital’s maternity website and fill out the self-referral form.
Start taking Folic Acid (400mcg) and Vitamin D (10mcg) immediately.
Only call the GP if you have pre-existing health conditions or take regular prescriptions.
Have you already identified which local hospital or NHS Trust you would like to use for your maternity care?
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