Concerns about yours or your baby’s wellbeing
Our maternity services remain open 24/7. It is just as important as ever that you contact us if you have any concerns about your pregnancy or your baby’s wellbeing (for example your baby’s movements are reduced). If you are concerned, it is very important that you call Labour Line without delay on 0300 369 0388 for advice. You may be advised to come in to hospital, even if you have tested positive for COVID-19.
We want you to feel that it is safe to come into hospital if you need to. We have set up a dedicated section of the maternity unit for women who have tested positive and who need urgent maternity care.
COVID-19 vaccine advice during pregnancy
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has advised that pregnant women should be offered the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as the rest of the population, based on their age and clinical risk group.
To help make a decision:
A short video with more information:
Consultant Obstetrician Jo Mountfield talks about the vaccination.
Government advice on COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
To offer additional support for pregnant women NHS Digital have this week announced that that there will be an ‘Are you Pregnant’ button on the national COVID-19 booking site. Through the site women will be able to book to have the appropriate vaccine and see tailored information and advice about the vaccines. This is in addition to you being able to access an appropriate vaccination via your GP.
Even if you receive the vaccine your employer should still complete a COVID-19 risk assessment.
If having read the RCOG decision aid and other information you would like to book the vaccine you need to:
- Book via the NHS site. There is the option to press are you pregnant on the site which gives them further information on the vaccine and book at an appropriate site
- Notify the team at the vaccination centre you are pregnant
- You are advised to have the Pfizer or Moderna vaccination
- Please note you cannot have any other vaccination (including flu or whooping cough) 7 days before or after a COVID-19 vaccination. So please be aware of this when you book your appointment for your COVID-19 vaccine.
Your midwife/obstetrician will be happy to talk to you about the vaccination in more detail if you would like.
Coronavirus infection and pregnancy
Information for pregnant women and their families
Access to emergency and urgent care for pregnant women
Labour care during the COVID-19 pandemic
Birthing plan
Online Antenatal Classes
We have provided live webinar antenatal classes for women in Dorset. These were provided by midwives and support workers across all sites covering a range of topics. We are currently filming more antenatal classes, these will be available soon and will be added once complete. You can watch our antenatal videos here.
You may also find these videos useful, which cover prenatal and postnatal topics.
Minority communities
If you are Black, Asian or another ethnic minority and pregnant we want you to know, we’re here to support you.
Pregnant people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds have 4 times the chance of needing a hospital stay because of COVID-19 symptoms. Research is ongoing to explain why this is. It’s natural to feel anxious in these uncertain times, especially if you are pregnant, but we’re here to help.
Infant feeding and postnatal
To keep you and your baby safe, we have made some changes to postnatal care and feeding support in Dorset. We are still here to provide you with all the support you need.
Smoking in pregnancy
Quitting smoking in pregnancy is the best thing you can do for your baby particularly with the increased risks of COVID-19 and smoking. Our Pan Dorset Service currently offers a very personal 1-2-1 based telephone chat so that we can offer you support and help on a personalised 12 week quit programme. Free nicotine replacement medication can be arranged for you also.
If you would like help and support please contact:
Royal Bournemouth Hospital: Live Well Dorset
Poole Hospital: SmokingInPregnancy@poole.nhs.uk or 07557322620
Dorset County Hospital: smokingcessation.midwife@dchft.nhs.uk or 07795317656
Babies cry, you can cope!
During this difficult time we understand the additional stresses that families are facing with a new born baby. ICON can help show you how you can cope with a crying baby, and what a normal crying pattern is. A midwife will talk to you about this before you leave the hospital.
I infant crying is normal and it will stop
C comfort methods can sometimes soothe the baby and the crying will stop
O its ok to walk away and you have checked the baby is safe and the crying is getting to you
N never shake or harm your baby
Remember this phase will not last, you can cope with their crying, it’s ok to have a break from your baby.
If you require further support contact your midwife, health visitor or GP or visit: ICON.