Maternity Services
NHS Brent has been working with all our maternity service providers on a programme of improving maternity services locally, creating a joined-up team of health professionals who are there to support you.
What should I do if I think I’m pregnant?
If you think you're pregnant it’s vital you see a healthcare professional straight away, no matter whether this is your 1st, 2nd, 3rd or more pregnancy.
You can contact a midwife directly or a GP to make a free appointment. The first 12 weeks of your pregnancy are the most important time of your baby’s development, so the earlier you are seen by a doctor or midwife the sooner they can check everything is alright. If you have an existing health problem (for example, diabetes, epilepsy, or a mental health issue) or if you have previously experience complications with pregnancy it’s even more important that you make an appointment.
Your midwife or GP will talk confidentially with you about the pregnancy, and will discuss your choices for screening and pregnancy care.
You should receive your first antenatal appointment within two weeks of informing your GP or midwife that you are pregnant. If you don’t, please make sure you phone your GP or midwife.
Maternity services in Brent
You can speak to your GP or contact the midwifery services directly at:
Things to start doing now
| · |
Eating fruit, vegetables and foods that contain iron, calcium, folic acid and vitamins are essential for your pregnancy; a growing baby needs these nutrients right from the start |
Things to do less of or stop
| · |
Smoking: the health and growth of your baby can be affected if you smoke and you are strongly advised to stop completely |
| |
|
| · |
Drinking alcohol: the best advice is to avoid drinking alcohol when you are pregnant |
| |
|
| · |
Drugs: all drugs can harm your baby. Tell your GP or midwife as soon as possible about any drugs you are taking, including over the counter or prescribed medications or street drugs |
|
|
|
For more advice see the Pregnant? What to do next...leaflet on the left
Available in other languages
Farsi
Polish
Somali
Tamil |
Unhappy to be pregnant?
| · |
Phone your GP or family planning services and make an appointment to discuss your situation. All discussions are confidential |
| |
|
| · |
Contact The Family Planning Association Helpline: Tel:0845 122 8690 |
| |
|
| · |
Call NHS Direct: 0845 4647 | |
