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
Although all our GP’s are qualified to provide ante-natal care, this is provided at the community midwife led clinics. After the baby is born, patients will be given an appointment by their Health Visitor for their post-natal (6 weeks) check with a GP.
- Any patients who have had a positive pregnancy test should contact the Maternity Central Booking Number on 0141 347 8422 to make their first appointment.
- Whilst trying to conceive or on finding you are pregnant you should take Folic Acid and Vitamin D supplements – speak to your community pharmacy for advice
- Early Pregnancy Advice Service – If you are less than 17 weeks pregnant and experiencing bleeding or pain contact this service on 0141 201 2331. Lines open Monday to Friday 08.00 to 16.00 and Saturday 08.30 to 16.30
- Maternity Assessment Unit – If you think you are in labour or need advice and are more than 17 weeks pregnant please contact the unit on 0141 232 4363/4377 (24 hours)
- Maternity Physiotherapy – Self refer on 0141 201 2324
- Pertussis Vaccination – You should receive this at a midwife appointment between 16 and 32 weeks
- Smokefree Services for pregnant women – 0141 201 2335 or text QUIT to 07796 937679
- Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 027 1234 (24 hours)
- Riverside Baby Club – Mondays 11am-12.30pm – speak to your Health Visitor for more information.
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. Antenatal appointments are now generally provided by the Midwife at the Hospital or satellite clinic. For further information please contact your 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, all pregnant women under 18 years of age and children who are under 5 years of age. Families who are supported by the scheme receive vouchers to spend on milk (including infant formula), fresh fruit and vegetables.
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.