Your new arrival is almost here. As the end of pregnancy draws nearer you may experience an intense mixture of emotions…
A sense of relief that the experience of pregnancy is almost over
Intense fatigue as the demands of the pregnancy take their toll
Wonder and excitement in anticipation of meeting your loved little one
Apprehension about the process of birth
Nervousness about taking your baby home and caring for a newborn.
SEE HOW WE CAN HELP YOU
Our visits will become more frequent now as we need to keep a close eye on how both you and baby are progressing. We will see each other every 2 weeks from 30 weeks then weekly from 36 weeks until delivery.
We will continually assess your progress, both physically and emotionally. We will address any specific issues you may have, as well as gain an understanding of your expectations and plans. Our aim is to arm you with knowledge, to help prepare you as best as possible for labour, birth and the postnatal period.
At each visit we will assess baby’s movements, ensure your blood pressure remains normal, check baby’s heartbeat and perform an abdominal examination to estimate size and position of the baby.
If we have any concerns about baby’s growth, the fluid around the baby, the blood flow through the placenta or the position of the placenta we may perform additional ultrasounds.
At 34 weeks
If you are a negative blood group we will give you anti-D prophylaxis.
At 36 weeks
We will recommend a low vaginal swab to check for Group B Streptococcus
This is a common bacteria found in the vagina that can impact on the baby as it comes through the birth canal.
If positive you will need antibiotics.
More information about GBS screening is available by clicking here
You will continue to see our specialist midwife who will build on our discussions about your labour, birth expectations and plans, to ensure you have a clear understanding of what is to come and how to proceed.
