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What to do when I first find out I'm pregnant

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Get referred to a midwife

The easiest way to get a midwife appointment is by completing the Maternity Pregnancy Referral form below.

Complete the maternity pregnancy referral form

Sign up to the patient portal

The patient portal is a web-based solution that allows people under our care to view their maternity notes online.

After you’ve had an appointment or spoken to us, we will record the data and you’ll be able to see it in your patient portal.

What will you see in your patient portal?

You will be able to see summaries of the following:

  • antenatal appointments with your community midwife
  • antenatal visits to West Suffolk Hospital
  • a summary of your labour and delivery notes including caesarean section
  • birth information about your baby(s)
  • information about your discharge to the community midwife team after you’ve given birth
  • postnatal contacts with the midwifery team
  • information about when we discharge you from the service
  • you will not be able to see any sensitive information such as social concerns, or disclosures about domestic issues.

How can I get access?

If you already use the NHS App, you’ll be able to access the portal with your existing NHS App login details. If you aren’t yet using the NHS App, we recommend registering before signing up for the new Patient Portal, as you will use these credentials to log in.

Patients with an upcoming outpatient appointment will be sent a registration text message to register for the portal.

Stay healthy during your pregnancy

There are lots of things you can do to stay healthy during pregnancy. It is important to eat well and avoid smoking, drinking, or using any illegal drugs during your pregnancy, please let your midwife know if you are struggling with this, there is support available. Smoking, drinking or using drugs can cause your baby harm.

Please see the following information resources:

Looking after your mental health during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a significant life change, and it's completely normal to experience a range of emotions. But if you're feeling low, overwhelmed, or anxious, and it's affecting your daily life, you're not alone — and support is available.