Pregnancy and birth

BEFORE PREGNANCY

This handout provides an overview of key information relating to conception, fertility and pregnancy.

You can improve your chances of getting pregnant and having a healthy pregnancy by following the steps on this page.

Deciding to have a baby is a big decision - but if you and your partner are ready for this step, there are things you can do to increase the chances of getting pregnant.

Find out about starting a family if you're lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or non-binary.

Find out about starting a family if you have a mental health condition, or if you have had one in the past.

You can find an overview of pregnancy and maternity services in Leeds via this link, including information about terminating your pregnancy and what the next steps are.

DURING PREGNANCY

The calculator on this page can help you work out when you might expect your baby to arrive.

This guide includes all you need to know about trying for a baby, pregnancy, labour and birth.

A patient information booklet about pregnancy choices.

How to look after yourself and your baby while you're pregnant.

The more active and fit you are during pregnancy, the easier it will be for you to adapt to your changing shape and weight gain. It will also help you to cope with labour and get back into shape after the birth. Find out more here.

Read about pregnancy complications and when you should get help.

Click the link for a portal to many topics relating to pregnancy and parenthood.

The NSPCC run a service called Pregnancy in Mind, designed to support mental wellbeing and prevent mental health issues during pregnancy. It is for parents-to-be who are at risk of, or currently experiencing, mild to moderate anxiety and depression during their pregnancy, and can be attended between 12 and 34 weeks gestation. Click the link to find out more.

GIVING BIRTH AND AFTER PREGNANCY

How to tell if you're in labour and what happens during labour and birth.

A guide to supporting you after you've had your baby.

Advice about stitches, piles, bleeding and other physical changes after birth, plus tips to help you make a healthy recovery.

Advice about looking after your baby after you have given birth.

All births in England, Wales and Northern Ireland must be registered within 42 days of the child being born. Find out more here.

Find out key information about sex and contraception after you have had a baby.

Relationships can be more challenging after you have had a baby, so read this page to get support.

If you are a parent who has been traumatised by birth, the Birth Trauma Association can help. They provide support to help you recover. You can visit their site or call 0203 621 6338.