The Antenatal Clinic is lead by the midwife. The primary aim of antenatal care is to monitor your health during pregnancy, as well as the health and development of your baby. It can help predict possible problems with your pregnancy or birth, so action can be taken to avoid or treat them.
Home pregnancy test kits are usually very reliable so it is not normally necessary to have a doctor repeat the test to confirm that you are pregnant. You should make an appointment to see the midwife as soon as possible when you know you are pregnant. You can self refer (see below) or ask to book in at reception.
A booking appointment is usually made early on in your pregnancy. You will be asked a number of questions, about your health, your family history and any previous pregnancies. . You will be asked to give a blood and urine sample at this appointment.
Throughout your pregnancy, you will have a number of consultations either at home, at the surgery or at St Richards Hospital. Some of the routine checks that may be performed include:
- blood pressure
- palpation – feeling your tummy
- listening to your baby’s heart
- questions about your baby’s movements
- urine tests
- checking any swelling in your legs, arms or face
- questions about how you feel
Whilst pregnancy can be a fantastic time, it can also bring worries – our midwives and GPs are here to help you through the experience.
Maternity services website: https://www.westernsussexhospitals.nhs.uk/services/maternity/pregnancy/booking-birth/
Online booking form: https://pregnancybooking.wsht.nhs.uk/
Maternity triage and advice line, if you are pregnant and need to speak to a midwife, or think you are in labour: https://www.westernsussexhospitals.nhs.uk/services/maternity/us/maternity-triage-advice-line/
Tel: 01903 285269
Early pregnancy assessment clinic at St Richards, if you are in early pregnancy and are bleeding or in pain: 01243 788122 x 32874 (lines open 8.30-12.30 Mon-Fri, outside these times please speak to your GP or call 111. If symptoms are severe you may need to consider attending A+E )