Skip to main content
pregnancy

Pregnancy

Jump to

Pregnancy can be an exciting time, but whether this is your first or fifth baby, looking after yourself is incredibly important. There is so much you can do to improve your diet and lifestyle to keep you and your baby healthy during your pregnancy. From the initial positive test all the way through to labour and the postnatal period, there are some common problems you need to be aware of, but hopefully your little bundle of joy will soon find its way into the world without any hiccups.

Planning to become pregnant

Pregnancy

Planning to become pregnant

by Dr Philippa Vincent, MRCGP

Early pregnancy signs and symptoms

Pregnancy

Early pregnancy signs and symptoms

by Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP

Pregnancy screening tests

Tests and investigations

Pregnancy screening tests

by Dr Rosalyn Adleman, MRCGP

Ultrasound scan

Tests and investigations

Ultrasound scan

by Dr Toni Hazell, FRCGP

General pregnancy information

Pregnancy brings big changes. Discover all you need to know about pregnancy including trying to get pregnant, foods to avoid and how to keep well in pregnancy.

Back to top

Antenatal care

Antenatal care is the routine medical and midwifery care you receive during pregnancy to keep you and your baby healthy. It includes regular physical check-ups, ultrasound scans, and blood tests.

Back to top

Baby and toddler

Caring for babies and toddlers comes with many questions. From feeding to sleep and common illnesses, discover trusted advice for this vital stage of life.

Back to top

Bleeding in pregnancy

Bleeding during pregnancy can be alarming but doesn't always indicate a serious problem. You should contact your GP or midwife as soon as possible whenever you experience bleeding.

Back to top

Contraception

There are many contraception options available, including pills, patches, implants, injections, intrauterine devices (IUDs), condoms, and natural methods. Each has its own pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your health, lifestyle, and preferences.

Back to top

Infections in pregnancy

During pregnancy, your immune system naturally changes, making you more susceptible to illnesses. While some common infections like the cold are mild, others can lead to severe maternal illness or complications to the baby.

Back to top

Labour and childbirth

Read about what happens during labour and birth, including the 3 stages of labour, contractions, dilation, birth positions and monitoring your baby.

Back to top

Newborn baby screening tests

Newborn screening involves critical tests performed shortly after birth—most notably the heel prick blood spot test around day 5, alongside hearing and physical examinations.

Back to top

Pregnancy complications

Not every pregnancy runs smoothly. Learn about common complications like gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia, and how doctors help keep you and your baby safe.

Back to top

Join the conversation

Looking for answers, reassurance, or people who understand your situation? Patient Communities bring together thousands of members to talk about health and wellbeing. You can browse discussions by topic, ask your own questions, and share personal experiences - all in a trusted, supportive environment.