University Hospitals Plymouth Maternity Services

07/09/2025

Babies cry, you can cope!

- Infant crying is normal
- Comforting methods can help
- It's OK to walk away
- Never, ever shake a baby

When babies cry it can be stressful and overwhelming. Speak to someone if you need support such as your family, friends, Midwife, Health Visitor or GP. If you are worried that your baby is unwell contact your GP or call NHS 111. For more information visit https://iconcope.org/

06/09/2025

Did you know? Plymouth Family Hubs are here to support you every step of the way on your parenting journey!

From pregnancy through to early childhood, they offer a wide range of services including:
-Some of our midwifery clinics are based here, where you will meet your midwife for your pregnancy appointments
-Parenting advice
- Health and wellbeing support
- Community-based activities and guidance
Like and follow their page to stay in the loop with the latest events, resources, and support available to you and your little one: https://www.facebook.com/share/1H72vbiQJP

05/09/2025

Skin-to-skin contact offers a powerful way to build a deep bond with your baby. This simple yet meaningful practice brings many benefits, including: calms and relaxes both mother and baby, regulates the baby's heart rate and breathing, regulates temperature, stimulates digestion and an interest in feeding, helping them to better adapt to life outside the womb. For more information visit: https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/baby-friendly-resources/implementing-standards-resources/skin-to-skin-contact/

This video covers both the theory and practice of skin to skin, but most importantly, what it can mean to parents and babies meeting each other for the first time.

Skin to skin contact has been at the heart of Baby Friendly and an integral part of our standards since the beginning. This special time for mother and baby ...

05/09/2025

Midwives in the Antenatal Clinic and Day Assessment Unit can also provide the vaccination between 8am and 5pm during the week.

For more information on antenatal care and vaccines click here: https://www.plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk/antenatal-care

04/09/2025

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/

03/09/2025

Want to see your appointments on your My Pregnancy Notes?

We know how important it is to stay on top of your appointments during your pregnancy journey. The good news is - it’s easy to view them right in your My Pregnancy Notes!

Follow our simple step-by-step instructions below to get started and have all your upcoming appointments at your fingertips.

1. When you log into your notes page choose "clinical record" in the top right-hand corner. This will open your care summary.
2. You can then choose "appointments" from the top menu and it will show you everything you are currently booked in for.

02/09/2025

If you're between 36 weeks and 1 year following birth please complete short survey to improve pelvic health around birth and have the potential to win £100 One4all voucher!

Follow this link to give us your feedback: https://forms.office.com/e/7BYxJHxFgQ

01/09/2025

Free antenatal education: dates available for September and October

Looking for more information on labour and birth with University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust?

Join one of our online antenatal education sessions led by our friendly and experienced midwifery team! These sessions are designed to support and prepare you for your journey into parenthood, offering expert advice in a relaxed and supportive environment.

Spaces are limited, so don’t wait!

Details on how to book your place here.

We look forward to seeing you there and supporting you every step of the way!

31/08/2025

As new parents, ensuring your baby sleeps safely is one of your top priorities. The NHS provides expert advice to help you create a safe sleep environment for your little one. Here are some key tips:-

- Always place your baby on their back to sleep, on a firm mattress in a cot or crib.
- Keep the cot free from pillows, blankets, and soft toys to reduce the risk of suffocation.
- Keep your baby’s head uncovered. Avoid hats or loose bedding that could cover their face.
- Ensure your baby is not too hot or too cold – dress them in light layers and check their temperature regularly.

For more guidance on safe sleeping, visit the NHS website for trusted resources.

https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/baby/baby-basics/newborn-and-baby-sleeping-advice-for-parents/safe-sleep-advice-for-babies/

30/08/2025

Building a strong bond with your baby makes them feel loved and secure, laying the foundations for their future mental health and happiness. Visit Start for Life for more tips and advice.

🔗https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/baby/baby-basics/bonding-with-your-baby/

Better Health Start for Life

29/08/2025

Babies cry, you can cope!

- Infant crying is normal
- Comforting methods can help
- It's OK to walk away
- Never, ever shake a baby

When babies cry it can be stressful and overwhelming. Speak to someone if you need support such as your family, friends, Midwife, Health Visitor or GP. If you are worried that your baby is unwell contact your GP or call NHS 111. For more information visit https://iconcope.org/