When will my first antenatal appointment be?

This depends on where you live. Ask at your GP surgery or ring your local maternity unit to find out how it works in your area. Your first appointment with a midwife will probably be before 12 weeks. You may also receive an appointment for your first scan around this time too.

Who should come with me to my antenatal appointments?

It is completely up to you. You can take your partner, your mum, your sister, your friend, a social worker or anyone else who you feel will support you. Or you can go on your own if you prefer. 

If you decide to bring someone with you, the midwife may ask to see you on your own at least once in case there is anything you want to tell her that you don’t want to say in front of the other person.

I'm worried the midwife will think I'm stupid if I ask her questions.

All pregnant women (whatever their age) have loads of questions. No one will look down on you for asking as many questions as you need. The most important thing is that you feel that you know what's going on, so if you have questions, or aren't sure you've understood properly, keep asking.

Are there any morning sickness cures?

There is no real cure for morning sickness other than patience. However you can try and manage it by working out what triggers it, and what calms it down.

It may be worst at a particular time of the day such as morning or early evening. It might help to rest or eat a small snack to boost your blood sugar level before these times (have some snacks by the bed to eat before you get out of bed for example).

• Try travel sickness wristbands.
• Try nibbling ginger biscuits or sipping ginger tea, particularly first thing in the morning in bed can help. 
• Avoid large meals, but eat smaller more frequent meals and snacks. 
• If you are often sick, rinse your mouth afterwards with plain water to prevent the acid in your vomit attacking your teeth. 

I am pregnant. Should I be eating for two?

During pregnancy almost everyone is told by some well-meaning person to have a second helping, or to eat more of what they fancy, ‘...because you’re eating for two now’.

It’s not true!

Amazingly, your baby takes everything he or she needs from your body. Up until the third trimester (six months into your pregnancy) your baby grows well without any extra calories at all. It is more important that you ensure your diet is rich in nutrients such as iron, calcium and other vitamins and minerals so that your body can provide enough for the both of you.  In the last three months you may need a little extra food, but only up to 200 extra calories a day, which is about two slices of wholemeal toast and butter.

How much weight will I gain when I’m pregnant?

Doctors in the UK are still trying to decide how much weight gain is ok in pregnancy. All of us gain some weight when we’re pregnant, especially at the end of pregnancy, and each of us is different. The important thing is to keep weight gain to a safe and healthy level for you and your baby. Your doctor or midwife may be able to advise you on what’s right for you.