Antenatal care

Deciding to start a family will be one of the biggest moments of your life. Make sure you're getting all the support you can - even before the bump starts showing.

I'm pregnant, now what?

Whether you suspect you're pregnant, or you've taken a DIY test, it's advisable to consult your doctor. They can confirm that you are expecting, and provide you with details of available antenatal care.

What help is on offer?

A midwife

Your midwife is your point of contact on all health issues throughout the pregnancy. Available through the NHS or privately, s/he is also the person who will deliver your baby. Regular antenatal appointments with your midwife allow you to build a relationship of trust, which is important when it comes to the birth. Appointments usually happen every month until week 28 or 30, then every fortnight until week 36, and then weekly until the birth.

Antenatal groups or courses

These are also widely available throughout the UK, on the NHS or privately. They can range from lessons in how to cope with childbirth, relaxation techniques and the finer art of bringing up your baby, to a loose collective of like-minded parents-to-be who want to share their experiences and seek mutual support. For details of such courses and events in your area, ask your midwife or check out the links in Next Steps.