There are lots of changes to your body that occur during pregnancy which can leave you feeling uncomfortable. Recognising what is normal and when to ask for help is important for you and your baby’s health.
It is common to experience some abdominal discomfort (tummy ache) that gets better by itself or improves with simple painkillers. However, if you experience pain associated with reduced baby movements or vaginal bleeding, you need to contact your maternity team.
Important: If you are taking paracetamol 2x 500mg tablets (1g) 4-6 hourly not exceeding 4g in 24hours.
What we mean when we say “severe, moderate or mild pain’’:
Severe pain:
Moderate pain:
Mild pain:
For more information on local services please click here.
If you are over 20 weeks pregnant call your maternity unit immediately if you have:
Contact your maternity unit immediately
If you are over 20 weeks pregnant call your maternity unit if you have:
See your GP (or NHS 111 out of hours) if you have:
You need to contact your:
Self care at home:
Things you can do at home:
This guidance has been reviewed and adapted by healthcare professionals across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin with consent from the Hampshire development groups.
Your local maternity unit is staffed 24 hours a day with obstetrician s and midwives to help care for you, your baby and your pregnancy related health concerns. For some AMBER concerns it may be possible to be seen in a midwifery led unit if it is more convenient for you. For health concerns that are not related to your pregnancy you are advised to see your GP, call NHS 111 out of hours, or attend A&E if it is an emergency.
Whilst you may have individual contact details for your community midwife, if you are concerned about your pregnancy we advise you call the maternity unit on the numbers provided because staff are available 24 hours a day. Please do not leave urgent voicemails or text on a community midwife’s phone.
GPs assess, treat and manage a whole range of health problems. They also provide health education, give vaccinations and can arrange referral to a hospital specialist should you need it. Whilst pregnant, you will have regular appointments with a midwife but it is still important to continue with any ongoing care from your GP.
You have a choice of service:
For information on common childhood illnesses go to What is wrong with my child?
NHS 111 can ask you questions to assess your symptoms, give you advice or can put you in touch with a GP out of usual working hours.
A&E departments provide vital care for life threatening emergencies, such as suspected heart attack or breathing difficulties. If you are not sure it’s an emergency, call 111 for advice.