University Hospitals Plymouth Maternity Services

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.

11/08/2025

Thinking about quitting smoking during pregnancy? You’re doing something amazing for you and your baby. Watch this video to hear about the affect of smoking during pregnancy.

- Talk to your midwife for support
- Call the National Smoke free Helpline: 0300 123 1044. Open Mon–Fri: 9am–8pm | Sat–Sun: 11am–4pm

You're not alone- help is here when you're ready. Learn more: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/stop-smoking/

Find out more here:http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/pages/smoking-pregnant.aspxMidwife Tracey Owen explains how smoking can harm your baby and...

10/08/2025

Postnatal care

The days and weeks after birth can be a whirlwind of emotions, questions, and new experiences, support is always available.

During the first 28 days after birth:

-For routine postnatal midwifery appointments: The Community Midwifery Administration Line: 01752 433256.
-For anything urgent or to contact a midwife: Maternity Triage on 01752 430200- available 24/7.
-For anything non-urgent your Health Visitor and GP are also a good resource.

Beyond 28 days postnatal:

For non-urgent concerns, speak to your:

-Health visitor
-GP

-For urgent concerns NHS 111/ 999 is there for you at anytime.

You’re doing an amazing job, and help is always just a call away. Don’t hesitate to reach out if something doesn’t feel right.

09/08/2025

Just found out you’re pregnant? We’ve created a quick, helpful video to guide you through how to self-refer to University Hospitals Plymouth Maternity using www.mypregnancynotes.com.

Watch the video and take the first step in your maternity journey with us!
Don't forget to like this post and share it with any expecting families who may find it helpful.

For more visit information : https://www.plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk/midwife-booking/

09/08/2025

Do you have an appointment with us but are not familiar with the site or know your way around?

Visit our detailed access guides at AccessAble. They show you everything, from car parking areas, to where entrances are located, what waiting rooms look like and where toilets can be found.

Reduce your anxiety about your healthcare appointment by visiting us virtually first.
https://www.accessable.co.uk/university-hospitals-plymouth-nhs-trust

08/08/2025

More pregnancy myths - busted!

Myth: You shouldn’t touch cats during pregnancy.
Truth: The concern is toxoplasmosis, which can be transmitted through litter. It’s safe to be around cats- just avoid cleaning the litter box if possible, or wear disposable rubber gloves gloves and wash hands well.
https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/infections-that-may-affect-your-baby/

Myth: You can tell if it's a boy or girl by the position of your bump.
Truth: Bump shape can be based on your muscles, height, diet and how many babies you have had before - not your baby’s gender. For more information visit: https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/pregnancy/week-by-week-guide-to-pregnancy/3rd-trimester/week-29/ -or-girl

Myth: You’ll stop having your period during pregnancy.
Truth: True menstruation stops, but light spotting, especially early on is common. Any bleeding should be discussed with your care provider to rule out complications. For more information visit:
https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/trying-for-a-baby/signs-and-symptoms-of-pregnancy/ #:~:text=Missed%20or%20lighter%20period,only%20losing%20a%20little%20blood.

07/08/2025

Knowing where to turn can make all the difference. Here's a quick guide to breastfeeding support available right here:

• Latch-On and peer support groups: Peer-led weekly meetups in Family Hubs (free, no booking!)
• Plymouth Wide Infant Feeding Team: Maternity, Family Hubs and Health Visitors all have an Infant Feeding Team, the teams work together to provide seamless support across the city and beyond
• La Leche League: Monthly groups offering informal guidance and mum-to-mum connection

Having access to local, evidence-based support increases confidence and breastfeeding success rates.

Plymouth Family Hubs Plymouth Latch On Plymouth 0-19 Health HubPlymouth City Council Action for Children Barnardo's Plymouth North Prospect Family Hub

07/08/2025

Breastfeeding is one of the ways to help build a deep emotional connection.
The hormones released during feeding promote bonding and calm for both mother and baby.

Sometimes the smallest moments matter most.

Plymouth Latch On Plymouth 0-19 Health Hub Plymouth Family Hubs Action for Children Barnardo's North Prospect Family Hub

06/08/2025

Feeling your baby move - what you need to know

One of the most exciting parts of pregnancy is feeling your baby move. You’ll usually start to notice movements between 16 and 24 weeks, and over time, you’ll get to know your baby’s unique pattern.

These movements are a sign your baby is well. That’s why it’s important to be aware of what’s normal for your baby.

Call Maternity Triage on 01752 430200 immediately if:

-Your baby is moving less than usual

-You can’t feel your baby moving anymore

-There’s a change in your baby’s usual pattern of movements

Don’t wait until the next day, even if it’s the middle of the night, it's always okay to call.

Midwives will want to check on your baby’s movements and heartbeat, and you're never wasting their time. Trust your instincts.

For more information, visit the NHS page here:
https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/your-babys-movements/