Possible risks

Alcohol can cause problems in pregnancy – advice on what to do and where to find more information

If you catch COVID while you are pregnant contact your GP or midwife if you are concerned. Routine covid vaccinations for pregnant women are no longer offered , but you can always talk about your options with your GP or midwife If you have any concerns about your baby or your own health, it’s important you contact your GP or maternity team. Don’t worry that you might be bothering them - they want to hear from you. Make sure you have an emergency number to ring if you are worried - ask your midwife if you don’t have one already. Guidance on treatment options NHS England has general information

You’re at greater risk of infection when you’re pregnant, but can take some simple steps to help stay healthy - advice on what to do and where to find more information

In later pregnancy (after 28 weeks), it’s safer to go to sleep on your side than on your back When you’re asleep, you spend most time in the position you go to sleep in. For pregnant women, the blood flow going to the baby may be reduced or interrupted if they spend a long time lying on their back. Research has linked this with an increased risk of stillbirth The causes aren’t clear, but it may be that: the weight of the baby and uterus (womb) puts pressure on the woman’s blood vessels if she lies on her back, which reduces the flow of the blood back to her heart and also to the baby, or the

Always check with your pharmacist, midwife or doctor about medicines and therapies in pregnancy, even if you think they are harmless - advice and where to find more information

Older women have a higher risk of complications and problems during pregnancy - facts, advice and where to find more information

Smoking in pregnancy is harmful for you and your baby and stopping at any stage is helpful - advice on what to do and where to find more information and support

Street drugs,, recreational drug and other substances can be harmful during pregnancy, but help and support are available - advice on what to do and where to find more information