Know the signs: when to seek help during pregnancy

The guidance highlights the importance of accessing maternity care early. Pregnant women and people can access NHS maternity services, and maternity care is considered urgent and necessary. The leaflet recommends booking an appointment with a midwife by 10 weeks of pregnancy.

The resource provides advice on a range of pregnancy concerns, including vaginal bleeding, nausea and vomiting, breathlessness, headaches, baby movements and signs of labour. It also explains when people should contact their GP, midwife, maternity unit or NHS 111, and when they should call 999 or attend A&E.

One important message is not to wait if you are concerned about your baby's movements. From 24 weeks, if movements have stopped, reduced or changed, people are advised to contact their local maternity unit immediately and not wait until the next day.

The guidance also covers mental health during and after pregnancy, including where to seek support if someone is struggling or needs help urgently.

After birth, the resource outlines symptoms that may require medical attention, as well as emergency signs affecting both the mother and baby.

Healthwatch Barking and Dagenham encourages residents to familiarise themselves with the guidance and keep their maternity provider's contact details to hand. If you have concerns, speak to your maternity provider or contact NHS 111 if your maternity provider is not available.

Click on the links below to download these resources.