Tell the NHS you're pregnant
It's important to tell the NHS as soon as possible after you find out you're pregnant.
This is so you can get the care and information you need to help keep you and your baby as healthy as possible.
You can do this by referring yourself for NHS pregnancy care.
Find out how to refer yourself for NHS pregnancy care
If you have a long-term health condition or are taking medicine, you also need to see a GP or specialist as soon as possible to discuss any changes to your care or medicine.
Find out more
- your antenatal care: when your appointments will usually be and what happens at them
- pregnancy screening tests: what they are and when they happen
If your pregnancy is unplanned or you're unsure
If you're not sure how you feel about being pregnant, there is support and information to help.
Find out more
Find out your due date
You can use the due date calculator to help you work out when your baby might be born.
This is known as your estimated date of delivery (EDD).
How to keep healthy in pregnancy
Do
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take the recommended vitamins and supplements during pregnancy, such as folic acid and vitamin D
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ask your midwife or GP about the maternity exemption (MATEX) certificate – this gives you free NHS prescriptions and free dental care
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find out about safe medicines in pregnancy and which medicines to avoid
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have a healthy pregnancy diet
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know which foods to avoid in pregnancy
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do some safe pregnancy exercise
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learn about vaccinations in pregnancy to protect the health of you and your baby
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take steps to look after your mental health in pregnancy
Don't
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do not drink alcohol while pregnant – if you need help, your midwife or GP can get you the right support
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do not smoke – you can get support to stop smoking in pregnancy
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do not stop taking medicine that's been prescribed without talking with a doctor
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do not take illegal drugs in pregnancy – if you need help, your midwife or GP can get you the right support
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