Life events

 
 

Having a baby

Getting pregnant

If you feel anxious or worried about getting pregnant then talk to your GP or a family planning clinic. NHS Direct online offers information on a variety of fertility issues and advice and guidance on your health during pregnancy. The National Childbirth Trust offers support in pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood. For details of GPs, hospitals and family planning in Westminster visit the Local Health Authority's web site.

Your health during pregnancy

The BBC provides comprehensive details on becoming a parent. Click here to find out about vitamins and supplements; healthy eating; pregnancy and weight; smoking during pregnancy; drinking alcohol; pills, medicine and other drugs; fitness; and dealing with emotions.

Pregnancy complications

You should be able to speak to your GP or midwife at any time, but if you think something may be seriously wrong, contact them or your local hospital immediately for advice and help. NHS Direct online offers general information and details of publications about pregnancy complications including ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage and stillbirth. The Miscarriage Association also provides support and information for those suffering the effects of pregnancy loss. For those looking for help specifically in Westminster try the Council's Community Information System.

Your entitlements

If you're expecting a baby there are a number of benefits you may be entitled to whether or not you are working. Check out the Department of Work and Pensions (former DSS) website for further information on the benefits available. If you are claiming any benefits don't forget to inform the Council or Benefits Office of your change in circumstances. If you are working you could be entitled to parental leave. The Department of Trade and Industry website provides details.

Where to have your baby

Whether you decide to have your baby in a hospital or at home your midwife and doctor will be able to tell you more about your options. BBC online's Parenting site tells you more about where you may have your baby and offers information on hospital and home births. For details of hospitals in and around Westminster visit the Health Authority's Web site.

Labour

BBC online explains what you can expect during labour, how you might deal with it and what will happen during childbirth. A hospital birth is described, but this section will also be useful if you are having a home birth. It may help to have someone present during your labour and this information should also be useful for them.

Registering a birth

Full details of how to register a birth in Westminster are available on this Web site.

Feeding your baby

You will need to decide how you are going to feed your baby. It is important that you have enough information about all the options and feel comfortable about your choice. Speak to your midwife, GP or health visitor. The BBC website also contains useful information about feeding your baby.

Links

For resources specifically in Westminster the Council has access to two databases. These are the Community Information System and/or for those with a disability there is WELDIS.