University Hospitals Plymouth Maternity Services

22/08/2025

Supporting families overnight

We’re so pleased that birth partners are welcome to be present overnight, offering comfort and support during such a special time.

We know that being a new parent is exhausting and you might be up more than usual at night. All we ask is that everyone is mindful of others by helping us keep the ward peaceful for those who are trying to rest. After giving birth, rest is essential for recovery. Please keep voices low, use headphones for devices, and save calls for daytime, if you can.

Thank you for being kind and respectful, it means the world to our families and our staff.

21/08/2025

Pregnancy myths - let’s set the record straight!

Pregnancy advice is everywhere- but not all of it is evidence-based. We're here to guide you with facts you can trust.

Myth: You shouldn't take a bath during pregnancy.
Truth: Baths are safe as long as the water isn’t too hot. Soaking in a warm bath can be soothing and help with aches - just avoid hot tubs or overheated water. For more information visit: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/finding-out/health-things-you-should-know-in-pregnancy/

Myth: You’ll know when labour starts.
Truth: Early labour signs can be subtle. If you're unsure whether it's the real thing, it’s always okay to call your provider or visit your maternity unit. For more information visit: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/labour-and-birth/signs-of-labour/signs-that-labour-has-begun/

Myth: Spicy food will induce labour.
Truth: While spicy food might cause heartburn, there’s no scientific proof that it brings on labour. Labour starts when your body and baby are ready. For more information visit: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/labour-and-birth/signs-of-labour/inducing-labour/

20/08/2025

Let’s talk about your pelvic floor!
Did you know the NHS recommends doing pelvic floor exercises throughout your life? They’re simple, safe, and make a big difference to your pelvic health before and after birth. Learn how to check you're in the right place by watching the APPEAL video below https://youtu.be/FLHcjrpFggQ

For more about pelvic health at Devon Pelvic Health Service website for more info:
https://myhealth-devon.nhs.uk/pelvic-health/

Midwife Leann teaches you how to properly do a pelvic floor muscle contraction. Learn more from our other videos:How to strengthen pelvic floor muscles: http...

20/08/2025

You can now get the RSV vaccine from 28 weeks of pregnancy. Walk-in clinics are running at various venues in and around Plymouth.

You can also pop into the Antenatal Clinic at Derriford Hospital on: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

If you have any questions or want to know more, don’t hesitate to speak to your Midwife, or search the links for more information:

RSV information https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv-maternal-vaccination/a-guide-to-rsv-vaccination-for-pregnant-women

Pertussis information: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/whooping-cough-vaccination/

19/08/2025

We’ve created a helpful booklet containing QR codes that link to key topics and resources displayed throughout our maternity and neonatal units on the information trees.

Some of the topics are important for you to read in advance of attending consultant appointments, for example birth after caesarean, considering a caesarean and induction of labour. Other general information can be found such as reduced fetal movements and birth preparation.

Ask a member of staff for a copy if you don't already have one.

18/08/2025

Maternity Triage is open 24hrs a day, 365 days a year to provide urgent help and advice

You should call them if you experience any of the following symptoms during your pregnancy:

-Reduced fetal movements
-Vaginal bleeding
-Abdominal pain
- Waters breaking - even if you are not sure
-Any contractions before 37 weeks gestation
-Regular contractions from 37 weeks gestation
-Visual disturbances - flashing lights/blurred vision
-Persistent severe headache
-Feeling very unwell or high temperature

Our Triage Number is 01752 430200 (if required)

17/08/2025

Your week-by-week guide to pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of growth, change, and preparation. Whether you're just starting this journey or counting down the weeks, having reliable information can make all the difference.

The NHS offers a Week-by-Week Guide to Pregnancy that covers everything you need to know, how your baby is developing, what changes you might experience, and tips for staying healthy along the way.

Explore the guide here: https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/

Every week is a new chapter in your story. We're here to support you through all the moments, big and small.

16/08/2025

Need help using your My Pregnancy Notes? We’ve listened to your feedback and created a short, helpful video with top tips based on the most frequently asked questions.

In this video, you’ll learn how to view your upcoming appointments, find your information leaflets, create an access token for other healthcare providers when travelling and more!

If you find it useful, feel free to like and share with other expecting families.

If you need help, please speak to your maternity team or for any appointment related queries please contact the appointments line on 01752 433256.

15/08/2025

Many are unaware of the respiratory illness , but it causes 20,000 hospitalisations each year in babies under 1, just in England.

Find out about the new vaccination programme launching this autumn to help thousands of children and older adults: https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2024/07/17/what-is-rsv-and-is-there-a-vaccine/

14/08/2025

What you need to know about MATB1 certificates.

Did you know that midwives need to examine you before issuing your MATB1 certificate? This document is essential for starting your maternity leave and is usually given at your 25 or 28-week appointment.

The midwife will confirm details like your due date when signing the form - don’t forget to attend your check-ups to get this important form on time!

13/08/2025

12/08/2025

Thinking of starting a family? Let's talk vitamins! Folic acid can help prevent birth defects known as neural tube defects, including spina bifida.

Did you know? Women with a BMI over 30 are recommended to take a higher dose of folic acid (5mg daily). This dose is only available on prescription, please contact your GP surgery to discuss this with a doctor. Many women don’t receive it in time and only start on the standard dose once they’re already pregnant, missing a vital early window.

We encourage all women who are planning a pregnancy to speak to their GP early about preconception care and to request 5mg folic acid if eligible. It’s a small step that can make a big difference.

You can read more about what vitamins are really needed during pregnancy in this helpful article from Tommy’s:
https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/blogs-and-stories/im-pregnant/pregnancy-news-and-blogs/think-twice-shelling-out-pregnancy-multivitamins

Pregnancy multivitamins are a waste of money because most mums-to-be do not need them, according to researchers. Folic acid and vitamin D are all that's needed.