Having a baby can be an exciting but daunting time for women and their partners, there is a lot to think about and plan for. There are many questions and choices to make so we hope the information on this website will help you. Our aim is to work in partnership with you, your partner and family to achieve a happy, healthy pregnancy and birth.
Maternity services are provided across east Kent in the community and in four different hospital settings. Midwives work in all areas of the community and in our hospitals. Obstetricians are based at the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford and the Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate. Every pregnant woman needs a midwife and some need a doctor too.
Getting in touch
As soon as you suspect or know you are pregnant we recommend you make an appointment with one of our experienced midwives as soon as possible - ideally before the tenth week of pregnancy.
Seeing a midwife at an early stage will ensure you are given all the information that you need right from the start to help you make the right choices for you and your baby. There are some routine screening tests that need to be carried out by the tenth week of pregnancy, so an early appointment with a midwife will enable you to discuss these tests and plan appropriately.
You can book to see a midwife with us in one of several ways:
- Contact your GP practice and ask for a direct appointment with the midwife based there.
- Contact the Community Midwife Team directly who will arrange an appointment for you.
Women with uncomplicated pregnancies can choose to have all of their care with a midwife. Some women may need additional support from a consultant if there are any identified risk factors, such as diabetes or obesity.
An ultrasound scan will be arranged which is usually performed between 11 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. This gives the midwife a predicted delivery date for your baby’s birth and gives you the opportunity to take home your very first picture of your baby in the womb.
