When you first learn that you’re pregnant, you should self-refer to the midwives. You can do that by following this link: Badger Notes - Self-refer your pregnancy to Oxford University Hospitals. It’s important that you do this as soon as you find out you are pregnant to ensure you have all the information and necessary care to support you through your pregnancy. The midwife team will aim to call you when you are 8 weeks into your pregnancy. If you haven’t heard from the midwife team by 9 weeks into your pregnancy, please contact them directly on 01865 220457.
It is important for pregnant women to take 400mg of folic acid every day until they are 12 weeks into their pregnancy. You should start taking this if you are planning to get pregnant. This reduces the risk of development problems during the early stages of pregnancy. We also recommend that you take a daily vitamin D supplement. The strength of vitamin D and/ or folic acid that you require may vary depending on your personal needs and circumstances so if you have any medical problems or are obese please speak to a doctor to check. You can read more about vitamins, supplements and nutrition in pregnancy here: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/vitamins-supplements-and-nutrition/.
If you are well and not taking any medication, you may not have to speak to your GP but if you are taking medications or have any medical conditions it is important that you inform the GP practice so we can make sure you get the appropriate care you need. This website has some useful information about taking medications during pregnancy: https://www.medicinesinpregnancy.org
Vaccination is also an important part of your pregnancy care. Pregnant women are advised to have the flu and whooping cough vaccines. Please follow this link to learn more about vaccination during pregnancy: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/vaccinations/