Pregnancy Guide Book

        Having a baby is one of the most exciting things that can happen to you. But you might be feeling nervous as well. If it’s your first baby, it’s hard to know what to expect.

        Your mum, colleagues, friends and relations might all be giving you advice. And then there is all the information on the internet as well as in magazines and books. At times it can feel overwhelming and it’s hard to know who is right when people say different things.

Your pregnancy at a glance 

Before you get pregnant

• Think about the lifestyle factors that might affect your ability to get pregnant and have a healthy pregnancy

(see Chapter 5). This applies to men too. You are more likely to get pregnant if you are both in good health.

- If you smoke, get advice about stopping. You are up to four times more likely to stop smoking successfully with support. Visit

www.stopsmokingni.info further information on the 650+ specialist stop smoking services that are available across Northern Ireland. These free stop smoking services provide NRT and are run by specially trained staff who can advise you on the best way to manage your cravings and become smoke free. Services are offered in many GP practices, community pharmacies, HSCT premises, and community and voluntary worganisations. They can be set up in workplaces.

0–8 weeks 

• As soon as you know you are pregnant, get in touch with a midwife or your GP to organise your antenatal care (see Antenatal care on page 54). Begin to think about where you want your baby to be born (see page 60). A leaflet outlining your choices is available from your midwife and GP.

• Some pregnant women start to feel sick or tired or have other minor physical problems for a few weeks (see page 75).

• Take 10 micrograms of vitamin D per day. You should continue to take vitamin D throughout your pregnancy and while you are breastfeeding. If you qualify for Healthy Start (you are at least 10 weeks pregnant and in receipt of certain benefits) you will be entitled to Healthy Start vitamins which contain vitamin D and folic acid. If you do not qualify for Healthy Start your midwife may recommend other supplements.

• If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes or a past history of gestational diabetes, telephone the antenatal clinic for an early appointment as soon as you realise you are pregnant.

8–12 weeks

• You will usually attend your first booking appointment by 12 weeks.

• At the booking appointment, your weight, height and body mass index will be measured. You will be asked about your health and family history as well as about your baby’s father’s family history. This is to find out if you or your baby are at risk of certain conditions.

• Your hand-held notes and plan of care will be completed.

• You will be offered blood tests for hepatitis B, HIV, syphilis and rubella.