# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
An increasing number of mothers and health professionals have sought to find more information on the levels of medicines passing through milk to the baby. Standard reference books such as the British National Formulary (BNF) provide little information for professionals and parents to make decisions on individual situations. BfN endeavours to provide information to enable mothers to breastfeed their babies for as long as they wish and to provide information on the safety of medicines for each mother and baby pair.

Please use the below links for more information

We are constantly reviewing the information available on drugs and breastfeeding as new research is conducted. Therefore, from time-to-time the information on this website may be updated - please be sure to check regularly for any new information and changes to the drug information fact sheets and leaflets.

What is the Drugs in Breastmilk Information Service?

The original Drugs in Breastmilk Helpline was set up by BfN in response to the number of calls we were receiving that concerned medication.

In 2017 we noticed that majority of enquiries from parents and professionals to the Drugs in Breastmilk Helpline were coming via email or social media. As a charity operating on reducing funds we need to run the service in the most efficient and effective way possible without compromising the needs of parents. As a result we decided to run the Drugs in Breastmilk service via email and social media enquiry only.

You can still access information on taking prescription drugs while breastfeeding by sending a private message via our Facebook page or via . Please provide as much information as possible (age of baby, dose, frequency and name of medication or drug). All enquiries are answered as soon as possible by one of our small, volunteer team of qualified pharmacists or breastfeeding supporters. As we can't guarantee a response time, in an emergency situation, please do not wait for our reply, but access help from a trained healthcare professional.

If you call the old Drugs in Breastmilk helpline 0844 number, you will hear a recorded message with information about where to access alternative support. Calls won't be answered live and there is no voicemail service available.

If you still have the Drugs in Breastmilk helpline number on any materials or web pages please could you remove it and replace it with the following information:
'If you have specific questions about medications or treatments, please message the Drugs in Breastmilk information service Facebook page or email druginformation@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk. If you require breastfeeding support, please call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212."

The service is open to mothers and professionals. As the time available to deal with breastfeeding support of mothers is limited, professionals are encouraged to find out the information to enable them to support the mothers themselves.

Evaluation of the Drugs in Breastmilk Information Service

In 2019, BfN commissioned Swansea University to undertake an evaluation of the DIBM service we offer. The executive summary of this report can be found and the full report can be found .

Become a Friend of Drugs in Breastmilk

Please click here for more information on how you can help support this vital service.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Drugs In Breastmilk - Is It Safe? - The Breastfeeding Network

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
An increasing number of mothers and health professionals have sought to find more information on the levels of medicines passing through milk to the baby. Standard reference books such as the British National Formulary (BNF) provide little information for professionals and parents to make decisions on individual situations.

# data[].attributes.body
Cough and cold remedies and Breastfeeding - Cough and cold remedies and Breastfeeding - The Breastfeeding Network

Decongestants and Breastfeeding - https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/factsheet/decongestants/

Sore throats and Breastfeeding  - https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/factsheet/sore-throats/

Alcohol and Breastfeeding - Alcohol and Breastfeeding - The Breastfeeding Network

Mastitis guidance - Mastitis Information - The Breastfeeding Network

Vaccinations and Breastfeeding  - https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/factsheet/vaccinations/

Vitamin D and Breastfeeding - https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/factsheet/vitamind/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
An increasing number of mothers and health professionals have sought to find more information on the levels of medicines passing through milk to the baby. Standard reference books such as the British National Formulary (BNF) provide little information for professionals and parents to make decisions on individual situations. BfN endeavours to provide information to enable mothers to breastfeed their babies for as long as they wish and to provide information on the safety of medicines for each mother and baby pair.

Please use the below links for more information

We are constantly reviewing the information available on drugs and breastfeeding as new research is conducted. Therefore, from time-to-time the information on this website may be updated - please be sure to check regularly for any new information and changes to the drug information fact sheets and leaflets.

What is the Drugs in Breastmilk Information Service?

The original Drugs in Breastmilk Helpline was set up by BfN in response to the number of calls we were receiving that concerned medication.

In 2017 we noticed that majority of enquiries from parents and professionals to the Drugs in Breastmilk Helpline were coming via email or social media. As a charity operating on reducing funds we need to run the service in the most efficient and effective way possible without compromising the needs of parents. As a result we decided to run the Drugs in Breastmilk service via email and social media enquiry only.

You can still access information on taking prescription drugs while breastfeeding by sending a private message via our Facebook page or via . Please provide as much information as possible (age of baby, dose, frequency and name of medication or drug). All enquiries are answered as soon as possible by one of our small, volunteer team of qualified pharmacists or breastfeeding supporters. As we can't guarantee a response time, in an emergency situation, please do not wait for our reply, but access help from a trained healthcare professional.

If you call the old Drugs in Breastmilk helpline 0844 number, you will hear a recorded message with information about where to access alternative support. Calls won't be answered live and there is no voicemail service available.

If you still have the Drugs in Breastmilk helpline number on any materials or web pages please could you remove it and replace it with the following information:
'If you have specific questions about medications or treatments, please message the Drugs in Breastmilk information service Facebook page or email druginformation@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk. If you require breastfeeding support, please call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212."

The service is open to mothers and professionals. As the time available to deal with breastfeeding support of mothers is limited, professionals are encouraged to find out the information to enable them to support the mothers themselves.

Evaluation of the Drugs in Breastmilk Information Service

In 2019, BfN commissioned Swansea University to undertake an evaluation of the DIBM service we offer. The executive summary of this report can be found and the full report can be found .

Become a Friend of Drugs in Breastmilk

Please click here for more information on how you can help support this vital service.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Drugs In Breastmilk - Is It Safe? - The Breastfeeding Network

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
An increasing number of mothers and health professionals have sought to find more information on the levels of medicines passing through milk to the baby. Standard reference books such as the British National Formulary (BNF) provide little information for professionals and parents to make decisions on individual situations.

# data[].attributes.body
Welcome to this padlet which will help you find reliable websites and leaflets that we recommend with information to support you in pregnancy, labour and birth.

Scroll across the page to see all of the sections or use the search bar to find a specific subject.

If you have a concern about yourself or your baby, please contact your midwife or maternity triage. Any advice on third party websites does not replace advice from a health professional.

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First Steps Nutrition Trust- Breastmilk and breastfeeding information 

# data[].attributes.subject
First Steps Nutrition Trust- Breastmilk and breastfeeding information 

# data[].attributes.headline
Introduction to infant feeding video (20 mins)

# data[].attributes.subject
Introduction to infant feeding video (20 mins)

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Manchester Infant Feeding Team Introduction to Infant Feeding (P)

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Tehneek information (British Muslim Heritage Centre) 

# data[].attributes.subject
Tehneek information (British Muslim Heritage Centre) 

# data[].attributes.headline
Tehneek information (British Muslim Heritage Centre) 

# data[].attributes.subject
Tehneek information (British Muslim Heritage Centre) 

# data[].attributes.body
Ring Paul on 07526 562968

https://homestartmanchester.com/dadmatters

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Mums Matter is a friendly, welcoming 8 week group offering mums time to focus on their emotional wellbeing and mental health. It is designed for Manchester based mums with a child under two.

In a calm and welcoming space, mums will:

Explore practical tools to support their mental and emotional wellbeing

Learn simple techniques to manage daily pressures

Connect with other mums and share experiences

Build confidence and feel more like themselves again

Each 2-hour session is delivered in local family hubs, with an optional crèche available.

Register your interest to join a course in your local area here:-

https://data.manchestermind.org/mums-matter/self-referral

# data[].attributes.body
Mums Matter is a friendly, welcoming 8 week group offering mums time to focus on their emotional wellbeing and mental health. It is designed for Manchester based mums with a child under two.

In a calm and welcoming space, mums will:

Explore practical tools to support their mental and emotional wellbeing

Learn simple techniques to manage daily pressures

Connect with other mums and share experiences

Build confidence and feel more like themselves again

Each 2-hour session is delivered in local family hubs, with an optional crèche available.

Register your interest to join a course in your local area here:-

https://data.manchestermind.org/mums-matter/self-referral

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LGBT Foundation – A national charity with LGBTQ+ health and wellbeing at the heart of everything we do.

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A national charity with LGBTQ+ health and wellbeing at the heart of everything we do.

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Embarking on your adventure down the path to motherhood or parenthood can be a scary, anxious & difficult time, mixed in with excitement & the feeling of the unknown.Whether you are thinking about starting a family, have started the journey or are thinking about siblings, we have multiple support groups available.

We hold these private Support Groups for our community to ask us for guidance, support, share their experiences & meet others who are on the same journey as them. People are welcome to join more than one support group if it applies to them. The only rules we have are to be kind, compassionate, & respect all journeys.

Our support groups are a safe space to ask questions & release their emotions in a constructive & supportive environment. No-one's details or experiences are to be discussed outside of these groups.

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Embarking on your adventure down the path to motherhood or parenthood can be a scary, anxious & difficult time, mixed in with excitement & the feeling of the unknown.Whether you are thinking about starting a family, have started the journey or are thinking about siblings, we have multiple support groups available.

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Advice for patients that have had a C-section

# data[].attributes.headline
25 things every baby would want you to know 

# data[].attributes.subject
25 things every baby would want you to know 

# data[].attributes.headline
First Steps Nutrition trust: Formula feeding - which milk to choose? How to make formula milk safely?

# data[].attributes.subject
First Steps Nutrition trust: Formula feeding - which milk to choose? How to make formula milk safely?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Infant milks for parents & carers — First Steps Nutrition Trust

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First Steps Nutrition Trust is a charity which provides clear, evidence-based and independent information and support for good nutrition from pre-conception to five years of age.

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Instructions

From 35 weeks perineal massage 2 or 3 times a day for 2-3 minutes

Make sure your hands are clean with short nails.

Use a lubricant like water based jelly, coconut oil, olive oil.

Use your thumbs or fingers to press towards your bottom and slide your fingers up the side of your vagina in a "U" shape

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Some studies suggest that complementary therapies can help women feel in control of their labour and use less medication to reduce pain.

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Risks of epidurals for labour/ risks of spinal anaesthesia for caesarean sections 

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Risks of epidurals for labour/ risks of spinal anaesthesia for caesarean sections 

# data[].attributes.headline
Risks of a planned caesarean section consent form 

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Risks of a planned caesarean section consent form 

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For women/birthing parents:

Third or fourth-degree perineal tears

Planned caesarean birth 0 per 100,000

Vaginal birth 560 per 100,000 (about 1 in 179)

Urinary incontinence more than 1 year after birth

Planned caesarean birth 7,300 – 19,600 per 100,000 (about 1 in 5-14)

Vaginal birth (unassisted birth)

19,800 per 100,000 (about 1 in 5)

Vaginal birth (assisted birth [forceps/suction cup])
48,799 per 100,000 (about 1 in 2)

Faecal incontinence more than 1 year after birth

Planned caesarean birth

7,800 per 100,000 (about 1 in 13)

Vaginal birth No difference if unassisted.
Vaginal birth If assisted: 15,100 per 100, 000 (about 1 in 7)

Urinary tract injury

Planned caesarean birth About 1 per 1000*

Vaginal birth No data available

Uterine rupture in a future pregnancy

Planned caesarean birth

200 per 100,000 (about 1 in 500)*

Vaginal birth

7 per 100,000 (about 1 in 14,000)

Emergency hysterectomy

Planned caesarean birth

200 per 100,000 (about 1 in 500)

Vaginal birth

100 per 100,000 (about 1 in 1000)

Placenta accreta in a future pregnancy

Planned caesarean birth

100 per 100,000 (1 in 1000)*

Vaginal birth

34 per 100,000 (about 1 in 2900)

Maternal death

Planned caesarean birth

25 per 100,000 (about 1 in 4,000)

Vaginal birth

4 per 100,000 (about 1 in 25,000)

For baby:

Asthma

Planned caesarean birth

1,809 per 100,000 (about 1 in 55)

Vaginal birth

1,500 per 100,000 (about 1 in 67)

Dying within 28 days of birth

Planned caesarean birth

58 per 100,000 (1 in 1,700)

Vaginal birth

30 per 100,000 (about 1 in 3,300)

* Numbers for planned and unplanned caesarean births

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My caesarean birth with spinal anaesthetic: A journey in pictures

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What to expect with a planned caesarean section

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What to expect with a planned caesarean section

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If you are planning on having a caesarean birth, this page offers guidance on what to expect on the day, including what happens to you and your baby before, during and after your delivery.

Normally, you will visit the hospital before you come in for your caesarean birth. The midwife will see you and take some blood from you to check you haemoglobin (HB) to make sure that you are not anaemic and to confirm your blood group in case you need a blood transfusion after your operation. She will also check that you don't have MRSA by taking some swabs from your skin. This is just a routine check.

Most women go home after the assessment and come back to hospital on the day of the caesarean birth, but you may need to come in the night before. The midwife will give you tablets to take before your caesarean birth to reduce the acid in your stomach and to help to prevent sickness. These are taken the night before your caesarean birth and on the morning of the caesarean itself.

You need to avoid eating and drinking for a certain period of time before you have your caesarean birth. This is to prevent you feeling sick during the surgery and minimise complications. Your midwife will explain all this to you.

You should be seen by an anaesthetist before your caesarean birth. The anaesthetist will talk with you about your medical history and any anaesthetic you have had in the past. The anaesthetist will also discuss the different types of anaesthetic you could have and answer your questions.

On the day of your caesarean birth, the midwife will see you to check that you have taken your tablets. Your bikini line may need to be shaved. You will have a name band on your wrist or ankle. The midwife may help you to put on special tight stockings (called TED stockings) to reduce the risk of blood clots forming in your legs. You will be given a theatre gown to put on.

In most cases, your birth partner, if you have one, will be able to be with you during the caesarean birth. A midwife will provide them with special clothes for the operating theatre.

There will be quite a few people in the operating theatre. This will include:

The midwife who will help look after you and your baby.

The anaesthetist and assistant.

The obstetrician and an assistant and a scrub nurse.

There will be another nurse who is responsible for fetching extra equipment.

A paediatrician may be also present if he/she is needed.

At the very least there will be seven members of staff in the theatre as well as your birth partner (if you have one).

If you have a regional anaesthetic, your birth partner will be able to join you in the operating theatre. They will be asked to sit down and to avoid certain areas of the room. This is to reduce the risk of contaminating sterile operating instruments.

If you are to have a general anaesthetic (put to sleep) your birth partner will be asked to wait in another room.

For more information on what your birth partner can expect during your delivery, see the birth partners in theatre page.

Just before the caesarean starts, a member of the theatre team will confirm your name, date of birth and hospital number to ensure that we have the correct patient prior to the start of the caesarean birth.

A screen will separate you and your birth partner from the lower part of your body and the surgery. The anaesthetist will stay with you all the time. You may hear a lot of preparation in the background. This is because the obstetricians work with a team of midwives and staff in the operating theatre.

Your skin is usually cut slightly below the bikini line. Once the caesarean birth is under way you will hear the sound of instruments and suction of fluids from around the baby.

From the start of the operation it usually takes about 10 minutes until your baby is born. The obstetrician will take about another half-hour to complete the operation. However, because every caesarean birth is different, it may take longer than this.

Before your caesarean birth starts, an antibiotic will be put into your drip to reduce your risk of getting an infection. After the birth, a drug called oxytocin is put into your drip to help tighten your womb and to cut down blood loss.

If you feel sick, you may be given medicine to help you stop feeling sick or vomiting. If you feel any discomfort, the anaesthetist may give you extra medicine to help relieve the discomfort and, sometimes, they will need to give you a general anaesthetic.

For pain relief after your caesarean birth, see the question below.

There are several ways to give you pain relief after a caesarean birth.

You may be given a suppository (tablet) up your bottom to relieve pain when the anaesthetic wears off. If you've had a regional anaesthetic, the pain-relieving drugs given with your spinal or epidural should continue to give you pain relief for a few hours. In some hospitals, the team will leave the epidural catheter in place so they can give you more drugs later on.

If you've had a general anaesthetic, you may be given local anaesthetic to numb some nerves in your tummy as well as a morphine injection or a similar painkiller. In some hospitals, you may be given a drip containing morphine or a similar drug and you can control the amount of painkiller you have yourself. This is called patient-controlled analgesia or PCA.

A midwife will give you tablets such as diclofenac or ibuprofen, paracetamol or morphine. It is better to take regular pain medication when nurses or doctors offer it to you than to wait until you are sore. The drugs may make you feel sleepy. Sometimes if you are breastfeeding, your baby may be affected by the pain-relieving drugs and may be a little bit sleepy too.

After the operation, you will be taken to the recovery room where your blood pressure will continue to be monitored. Your partner and baby will usually be with you. Your baby will be weighed if not already done so in the theatre and then you can begin breastfeeding, if you want to.

In the recovery room your anaesthetic will gradually wear off and you may feel a tingling or itching sensation. Within a couple of hours you will be able to move your legs again.

Immediately after the birth of your baby, the midwife dries and examines your baby. A paediatrician may do this with the midwife. After this, as long as they are happy that the baby is doing well, you and your partner will be able to cuddle your baby and, in some cases, have skin-to-skin contact.

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If you are planning on having a caesarean birth, this page offers guidance on what to expect on the day, including what happens to you and your baby before, during and after your delivery. Normally, you will visit the hospital before you come in for your caesarean birth.

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Caesarean section information and pain relief options 

# data[].attributes.subject
Caesarean section information and pain relief options 

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A caesarean birth is an operation to deliver your baby through a cut made in your tummy and womb. About a quarter of babies are born by caesarean birth and two thirds of these deliveries are unexpected. Our information helps you to understand the pain relief choices available to you should you need a caesarean birth.

Watch this video in another language

Elective vs emergency caesarean birth

If you know beforehand you'll be having a caesarean birth, it's called an elective operation. Your appointment will normally be before your baby's due date, so you don't go into labour.

An emergency caesarean is where your obstetrician recommends a caesarean birth, usually when you are already in labour. If it is very urgent (usually because there is a sudden problem with your baby), then some of the preparations we would normally do may be changed or even left out.

Types of pain relief

There are two main types of anaesthetic for your caesarean birth: you will either be awake (regional anaesthetic) or asleep (general anaesthetic).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A caesarean birth is an operation to deliver your baby through a cut made in your tummy and womb. About a quarter of babies are born by caesarean birth and two thirds of these deliveries are unexpected. Our information helps you to understand the pain relief choices available to you should you need a caesarean birth.

# data[].attributes.headline
What happens with a caesarean section? (video)

# data[].attributes.subject
What happens with a caesarean section? (video)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Trafford Start for Life booklet Web Version July 25

# data[].attributes.headline
Pregnancy and early parenthood: NHS Talking therapies

# data[].attributes.subject
Pregnancy and early parenthood: NHS Talking therapies

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
GMMH139 Perinatal and Early Pregnancy Leaflet 2.2 e-copy

# data[].attributes.headline
Perineal massage from 35 weeks can reduce the risk of severe tears

# data[].attributes.subject
Perineal massage from 35 weeks can reduce the risk of severe tears

# data[].attributes.body
Instructions

From 35 weeks perineal massage 2 or 3 times a day for 2-3 minutes

Make sure your hands are clean with short nails.

Use a lubricant like water based lubricant, coconut oil, olive oil.

Use your thumbs or fingers to press towards your bottom and slide your fingers up the side of your vagina in a "U" shape

# data[].attributes.body
Read more about it here:-

https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/giving-birth/delayed-cord-clamping-optimal

# data[].attributes.body
Food tips and recipes -free download

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Registered Nutritionist in Manchester - Registered Nutritionist supporting clients to get healthy without breaking the bank or chaining them to the kitchen

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Free resources - Registered Nutritionist in Manchester

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Everyone loves a freebie. I would love to develop more to help you. Get in touch with requests. Recipes Access recipe hub Free Pregnancy Download You have just found out you are pregnant, congratulations! Or you are preparing to try to conceive. Want to learn more about what to eat during pregnancy? This free download

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Animated video to accompany OASI Care Bundle course 1.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Animated video to accompany OASI Care Bundle course 1.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Published: 4 August 2022

Please note that this information will be reviewed every 3 years after publication.

This information is for you if you are considering a planned (elective) caesarean birth for your baby.

It may also be helpful if you are a partner, relative or friend of someone who is considering a caesarean birth.

This information is not for you if you have already been offered a caesarean birth because of specific reasons in your pregnancy, as the benefits and risks will be different. If you are in that situation, your healthcare professional will discuss your options for birth with you.

If you have had a caesarean birth in the past, please see the RCOG patient information Birth options after previous caesarean section.

The information here aims to help you better understand your pregnancy and your options for planning the birth of your baby. Your healthcare team is there to support you in making your decision. They can help by discussing your preferences, providing you with further information and answering your questions.

The figures quoted in this information are based on the best available research, which is limited. When considering the benefits and risks of your different options, it is important to bear in mind that we have to rely on studies of variable quality, including some that compare planned caesarean births for all reasons (including caesarean births for women who have medical factors) with vaginal births, or emergency caesarean births with vaginal births.

Within this information we may use the terms 'woman' and 'women'. However, we know that it is not only people who identify as women who may want to access this information about their choices around birth. Your care should be appropriate, inclusive and sensitive to your needs whatever your gender identity.

A glossary of medical terms is available at A-Z of medical terms.

Key points

Most women in the UK recover well and have healthy babies whether they have a vaginal or a caesarean birth.

A planned caesarean birth is a surgical procedure with risks and these should be balanced with the risks associated with a planned vaginal birth.

Every woman is different, and your individual needs and preferences will play the most important role in planning the birth of your baby.

If you are considering a caesarean birth or have any questions or anxieties regarding birth, you should tell your healthcare professional as soon as possible.

If, having considered the benefits and risks of your different options for birth, you decide that a planned caesarean is how you would like your baby to be born, your healthcare team should support this choice.

Sources and acknowledgements

This information has been developed by the following organisations: Birthrights, Birth Trauma Association, Caesarean Birth, National Birth Trust, RCOG Patient Information Committee, Royal College of Midwives and the RCOG Women's Network.

It is based on NICE guideline [NG192] Caesarean birth published in 2021, with supplemented data accessed from the NHS Digital Maternity Services dashboard and Rashid TG et al.; on behalf of the British Association of Urological Surgeons, Caesarean bladder and ureteric injuries in the UK (Journal of Clinical Urology 2014).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This information is for you if you are considering a planned (elective) caesarean birth for your baby. It may also be helpful if you are a partner, relative or friend of someone who is considering a caesarean birth.

# data[].attributes.headline
More information about your legal right for paid time off work to go to antenatal classes/groups

# data[].attributes.subject
More information about your legal right for paid time off work to go to antenatal classes/groups

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Time off for appointments - Maternity leave and pay

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Your rights for taking time off work to go to antenatal care appointments.

# data[].attributes.headline
More information about your legal right for paid time off work to go to antenatal classes/groups

# data[].attributes.subject
More information about your legal right for paid time off work to go to antenatal classes/groups

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Time off for antenatal care - Maternity Action

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
April 2025 This information sheet looks at your rights to paid time off for antenatal care. Who is entitled to time off for antenatal care? Can I take paid time off for my antenatal appointments? If you are an employee, you have the right to take reasonable time off for your antenatal appointments, […]

# data[].attributes.headline
Click the link below to view the government webpage about your right to time off work for appointments and antenatal classes/groups

# data[].attributes.subject
Click the link below to view the government webpage about your right to time off work for appointments and antenatal classes/groups

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Legal rights for pregnant employees - including paid time off for antenatal appointments, maternity leave and pay, protection against discrimination and telling the employer about the pregnancy

# data[].attributes.body
Please know that you are legally entitled to paid time off of work to join an antenatal class or group (including exercise groups) if it has been recommended by a midwife. See links at the bottom of this section

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Poster - Patient antenatal class padlet (2)

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Download to your phone

Essential Parent GM Family Hub App - iphone App Store Link

Essential Parent GM Family Hub App - Android Google Play Store Link

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
NHS Links - Pregnancy and Antenatal Care

# data[].attributes.headline
Antenatal classes around Greater Manchester: Labour, birth and baby information 

# data[].attributes.subject
Antenatal classes around Greater Manchester: Labour, birth and baby information 

# data[].attributes.body
Find your nearest antenatal classes and groups to get information and support during your pregnancy.

# data[].attributes.headline
Antenatal classes around Greater Manchester: Labour, birth and baby information 

# data[].attributes.subject
Antenatal classes around Greater Manchester: Labour, birth and baby information 

# data[].attributes.body
Find your nearest antenatal classes and groups to get information and support during your pregnancy.

# data[].attributes.body
Hospital support

Online support (video calls)

Private facebook group

Email support (hello@bliss.org.uk)

Emotional and practical support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Bliss offers a wide range of free services for the families of premature and sick babies including a video call support service.

# data[].attributes.body
Sensory play and baby massage sessions

Peer support networks

Support from a family support team

Trauma therapy and counselling

Online support networks

Community groups

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Spoons Charity - Neonatal Family Support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Community Groups - Spoons Charity - Neonatal Family Support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Check out our full timetable of events aimed at families who have experienced neonatal care in Greater Manchester

# data[].attributes.body
Click the picture above

Pain or stomach hardens (tightenings)

Pain or pressure down below

Backache

A gush or trickle of fluids down below

Sticky or Creamy fluid down below

Bleeding or spotting down below

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Click the picture above

Pain or stomach hardens (tightenings)

Pain or pressure down below

Backache

A gush or trickle of fluids down below

Sticky or Creamy fluid down below

Bleeding or spotting down below

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For after 16 weeks of pregnancy

Oxford Road: 0161 276 6567​

Wythenshawe : 0161 291 2724​

North Manchester: 0161 922 3167

Please only call the birth centres if you think you are in active labour:

Wythenshawe birth centre: 0161 291 5317

North manchester birth centre: 0161 625 8043

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Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust

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Active Pregnancy Foundation - Pregnancy CMO Guidelines

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Some vaccines, such as the inactivated seasonal flu vaccine and the whooping cough vaccine, are recommended during pregnancy to protect the health of you and your baby. An inactivated vaccine does not contain a live version of the virus it is protecting against.

Some vaccines, such as the tetanus vaccine, are perfectly safe to have during pregnancy if necessary.

But it does depend on the type of vaccination. For example, the MMR and yellow fever vaccines have potential risks, and you need to discuss these with your midwife or doctor before deciding whether to have the vaccine.

Vaccines not usually advised in pregnancy (live vaccines)

If a vaccine uses a live version of the virus, such as the MMR vaccine, you'll usually be advised to wait until after your baby is born before you get vaccinated.

This is because there's a potential risk that live vaccines could cause your unborn baby to become infected. But there's no evidence that any live vaccine causes birth defects.

Sometimes, a live vaccine may be used during pregnancy if the risk of infection is greater than the risk of the vaccination. Your midwife, GP or pharmacist can give you more advice about vaccinations during pregnancy.

Live vaccines include:

BCG (vaccination against tuberculosis)

MMR (measles, mumps and rubella)

oral polio (which forms part of the 6-in-1 vaccine given to infants)

oral typhoid

yellow fever

Vaccines recommended in pregnancy

Flu

During pregnancy, your immune system (the body's natural defence) is weakened to protect the pregnancy. This can mean you're less able to fight off infections. As the baby grows, you may be unable to breathe as deeply, increasing the risk of infections such as pneumonia.

These changes can raise the risk from flu - pregnant women are more likely to get flu complications than women who are not pregnant and are more likely to be admitted to hospital. Having the flu vaccine means you're less likely to get flu.
Find out more about the flu jab in pregnancy
Whooping cough

Whooping cough is a very serious infection, and young babies are most at risk. Most babies with whooping cough will be admitted to hospital.

When you have the whooping cough vaccination in pregnancy, your body produces antibodies to protect against whooping cough. These antibodies pass to your baby giving them some protection until they're able to have their whooping cough vaccination at 8 weeks old.
Find out more about the whooping cough vaccination in pregnancy
Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine

If you're pregnant, or think you might be, it's strongly recommended you get vaccinated against COVID-19 to protect you and your baby.

You're at higher risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19 if you're pregnant. If you get COVID-19 late in your pregnancy, your baby could also be at risk.

It's safe to have the vaccine during any stage of pregnancy, from the first few weeks up to your expected due date. You do not need to delay vaccination until after you have given birth.

The COVID-19 vaccines do not contain any live viruses and cannot give you or your baby COVID-19.

You can book your vaccination appointment online.
Find out more about pregnancy and COVID-19 vaccination

Travel vaccines in pregnancy

When you're pregnant, it's best to avoid visiting countries or areas where travel vaccinations are required.
See the TravelHealthPro website for information and advice about travel vaccinations for different countries
It may not always be possible to avoid areas that require vaccinations when you're pregnant. If this is the case, talk to a midwife or GP, who can tell you about the risks and benefits of any vaccinations you might need.

If there's a high risk of infection in the area you are travelling to, it's often safer to have a vaccine rather than travel unprotected as most diseases will be more harmful to your baby than a vaccine.

For example, yellow fever is a virus spread by mosquitoes. Most people who get severe yellow fever die from it. The yellow fever vaccine is a live vaccine, but it may be considered necessary to have the vaccination if you're travelling to areas where yellow fever is common because the risks of yellow fever are so high.

Pregnancy and malaria

Pregnant women are particularly susceptible to malaria. This is a serious condition which, if severe, can be fatal for both a mother and her baby. Malaria mainly affects countries in:

Africa

South America and Central America

Asia

the Middle East

If possible, avoid travelling in these areas if you are pregnant. However, if you're unable to postpone or cancel your trip, preventative treatment is available. This involves taking antimalarial medicine tablets to reduce your risk of getting malaria.

The antimalarial medicine you take may depend on which country you're travelling to, your stage of pregnancy and whether you have any other pre-existing medical conditions. In some areas certain antimalarial medicines do not work because the malaria parasite has developed resistance to them.

Some antimalarial medicines are known to affect the developing baby. For example, doxycycline can cause the baby's milk teeth to be discoloured if a pregnant woman takes it after the first 12 or 13 weeks of pregnancy.

Other antimalarial medicines have not been studied sufficiently and more research on their use in pregnancy is needed. But the risk of harm to you and your baby from malaria is likely to be much greater than any potential risk from taking antimalarial medicine.
See the bumps website for more information about malaria and antimalarial medicines and their use in pregnancy
Protecting yourself against malaria

If you're pregnant, make sure you take precautions against being bitten by insects. For example:

use a mosquito repellent that's specifically recommended for use in pregnancy

wear a long-sleeved top, full-length trousers and socks to cover up your skin from dusk until dawn

always sleep under a mosquito net

Find maternity services near you

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Some vaccines, such as the inactivated seasonal flu vaccine and the whooping cough vaccine, are recommended during pregnancy to protect the health of you and your baby. An inactivated vaccine does not contain a live version of the virus it is protecting against.

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Where you give birth is your decision. You can choose to give birth at home, in a midwife-led birth centre or in hospital.

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The latent stage of labour is when your labour starts. Find out how long it can last, and how to get through it as comfortably as you can.

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What does being underweight in pregnancy mean?

Your BMI is a measure that uses your height and weight to work out if your weight is in a healthy range. For pregnant women, your BMI calculation will be based on your weight before pregnancy.
Find out your BMI
Once you work out your BMI, this is the scale:

Less than 18.5 = underweight

18.5 to 24.9 = healthy weight

25 to 29.9 = overweight

30 to 39.9 = obese

40 = severely obese

At your first antenatal visit, called the booking appointment, your midwife may measure your height and weigh you to work out your BMI.

How can being underweight in pregnancy affect me and my baby?

Most women who have a low BMI in pregnancy are fine, but there is an increased risk of:

miscarriage

premature birth (when the baby is born before they are fully developed)

the baby having a low birth weight

gastroschisis (when the baby's stomach doesn't develop properly).

This can be difficult to read but you will have support and there are things you can do to have a healthier pregnancy.

What will my midwife do if I am underweight?

If your BMI was less than 18.5 before you became pregnant, you may be advised to gain more weight than someone who is in the normal range.

Your midwife may refer you to the hospital antenatal clinic for extra scans to check on your baby's growth and development. You may also be referred to a dietitian to help you work on ways to eat well and gain a healthy amount of weight.

Your midwife or specialist will discuss with you what your target weight gain in pregnancy should be. This will be based on several factors, including your pre-pregnancy weight.

They might also ask to weigh you regularly during your pregnancy to check on your progress.

You may be given more specific advice based on why you have a low BMI.

There are many reasons for having a low BMI, including:

not eating enough food because of an eating disorder (see below). To be healthy, women should have around 2,000 calories a day through a healthy, balanced diet

over-exercising and not having enough food to replace the energy used in exercise

being unwell. There might be a medical reason for your low weight, such as an overactive thyroid. If you think this might be the case, talk to your midwife or GP

loss of appetite perhaps due to worry or stress

lack of money for food. There are local charities and community services that may be able to help you if you find that you do not have enough money for food every month. Ask at your GP or citizen's advice bureau about what's available locally. You may also be eligible for healthy start vouchers.

Eating disorders

An eating disorder is when you have an unhealthy relationship with food. This can take over your life and make you ill. If you have an eating disorder (or have had one in the past) putting on weight may be difficult for you. It can be hard, but it's important to tell your doctor or midwife if this is the case.

You should have a named professional (usually your GP or midwife) to support you during your pregnancy and after you give birth who will:

prepare you for the changes that will happen to your body

regularly check how you are getting on

offer you extra check-ups during your pregnancy

talk to you about getting the right nutrition (having a good diet) to stay healthy for you and your baby.

Your mental health

Sometimes, depression or any other mental health condition can affect your weight. Up to 1 in 5 women develop mental health problems during pregnancy or in the first year after childbirth. Low mood, anxiety and depression are not unusual. If you have been feeling low for more than two weeks tell your doctor or midwife.

Your midwife may recommend a multivitamin supplement that's suitable for pregnancy, including folic acid, vitamin D and iron, and eating healthy extra calories to put on weight.

What can I do for a healthy pregnancy weight gain?

If your diet is causing your low weight, try changing to a healthy, balanced diet and aim to gain weight slowly.

Try to avoid high-calorie food and drinks full of saturated fat and sugar, such as cakes, sweets and sugary drinks. These foods have very little nutrition, which your baby needs to grow and develop well. If your diet has a lot of saturated fat and sugar during pregnancy, your children are more likely to suffer from high blood pressure and weight gain themselves later on in life.

When thinking about what to eat to gain weight, choose foods that are high in healthy fats, such as fish, chicken, nuts, avocados and unsaturated fats such as oils and spreads made from sunflower or olive oil.

Eat more pasta, beans and wholegrain cereals. Aim to eat three small meals and three healthy snacks every day.

Looking for more tips on what to eat in pregnancy? Find out more about having a balanced diet.

Exercise

If you are exercising a lot or you have a very busy schedule, try to cut down a bit. It's still important to be active in pregnancy, but you don't need to do more than the recommended amount. This is 30 minutes a day at least four days a week.

Remember that exercise doesn't have to be strenuous to help you manage your weight and stay healthy in pregnancy. There are lots of gentler activities you could try, such as swimming, walking, yoga or pilates.

More support and information
NHS Choices provides information on eating disorders.
Beat is a charity for people with eating disorders that provides information, support, local groups and an online chatroom.

National Centre for Eating Disorders provides information on eating disorders and available treatments, including counselling.

Home-Start is a family support charity in the UK. Volunteers help families with young children deal with the challenges they face.

Family Lives is a charity may be able to help you to work out what social services are in your area that can help you.
Are you ready to conceive? Use our tool to find out.

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Your BMI is a measure that uses your height and weight to work out if your weight is in a healthy range. For pregnant women, your BMI calculation will be based on your weight before pregnancy.

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A mum supported by Home-Start Trafford, Salford and Wigan

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Infant Feeding - Home-Start Trafford Salford and Wigan

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“Home-Start has made such a difference to my life. The parent I am today is because of Home-Start” A mum supported by Home-Start Trafford, Salford…

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Vitamin K for newborn babies to prevent vitamin K deficiency bleeding – Medicines For Children

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This leaflet is for parents and carers about how to use this medicine in children. Our information may differ from that provided by the manufacturers, because their information usually relates to adults. Read this leaflet carefully. Keep it somewhere safe so that you can read it again.

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Membership of the Gorton Community Grocer is £3.00 each week. In return you will have up to 6 months access to:

Significant savings on groceries and household basics

Access signposting and referrals to help with health, finances, and wellbeing

Courses, workshops, and volunteering opportunities

Community socials and a safe space to make new friends

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Discover your Community Grocer for a basket of food & household essentials, good health, skills and belonging.

Our £2.50-£3 per week membership scheme is the perfect way to ensure any budget can provide fresh nutritious meals for you and your family. Contact your local coordinator using the details below.

And we have a new membership model at Gorton Community Grocer where your friendly project coordinator can support you to access services & support for issues such as health, finances, housing and wellbeing.

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Discover your Community Grocer for a basket of food & household essentials, good health, skills and belonging. Our friendly project coordinators can also signpost you to support services for issues such as health, finances, housing and wellbeing.

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Food Banks | Greater Together Manchester

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Find your local food project and contact them for support

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The Booth Centre is a community centre run with people affected by homelessness.

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Damp and mould in social housing - Shelter England

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How to sort out damp and mould in council and housing association homes, from working out the cause and dealing with your landlord to getting compensation.

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Whoever you are, whatever the problem

Citizens Advice provides free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities.

Our aim is to:
Provide the advice people need for the problems they face. Improve the policies and practices that affect people's lives.

Get Help

Citizens Advice Manchester offers free, confidential, impartial and independent advice and information on a wide range of subjects. Get in touch in a way that works for you.

Volunteering can be hugely rewarding! If you'd like to boost your CV and enhance your skills for life and work or simply help people from your community, then you should consider volunteering for us. We're one of a network of over 400 bureaux across England and Wales. You may even have visited us for advice - over 40% of the population has!

Last year we helped 50,000 people in the city take charge of their finances by offering guidance and support on debt and benefits. Helped thousands of families into secure housing, supported victims of crime, worked with people struggling to remain in or find employment and provided access to the skills and advice that will allow parents to give their children the best start in life. Our advice makes communities more independent, saves time and money for public services, and brings income into the region.

People helped
Last year we supported over 50 thousand people from across the city find a way forward with their problem.

Problems resolved
Our advisers were able to resolve nearly a quarter of a million problems that were presented to them in the last 12 months.

£9 million
We increased the incomes of our residents through debts written off, benefits gained and consumer compensation for local people.

As well as providing advice, every Citizens Advice Manchester has a twin aim of collecting evidence from clients' experiences - and our experiences of advising them - and using this to campaign for positive changes that can benefit everybody, and not just people who come in to us.

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Citizens Advice Manchester offers free, confidential, impartial and independent advice and information on a wide range of subjects.

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Resolve Poverty does not provide advice or financial support for individuals seeking assistance with any issues relating to their circumstances. Please visit our maps to find your nearest support service. For other matters including media enquiries please call: 07561853933

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Money Advice Referral Tool (MART) Resolve Poverty believes that responses to poverty should focus on getting more money into people's pockets. That's why one of our strategic priorities is to support local efforts to boost household income and financial resilience. For many frontline organisations helping people dealing with poverty, information on where to refer people...

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Use the Turn2us Benefits Calculator to find out which welfare benefits you may be entitled to.

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Perinatal Trauma and Loss Service (PETALS)

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Perinatal Trauma and Loss Service (PETALS)

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African and Caribbean Mental Health Support

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African and Caribbean Mental Health Support

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Black women in the UK are four times more likely to die in pregnancy and childbirth than white women, and Asian and mixed-race women are twice as likely.

Download our report Systemic Racism, Not Broken Bodies, the evidence from our year-long inquiry into racial injustice in maternity care.

What are my human rights in pregnancy and childbirth?

Do I have the right to a home birth? How do I make a complaint? Can I choose my midwife or doctor? Our factsheets cover everything you need to know about your basic human rights in pregnancy and childbirth.

If you are thinking about pregnancy, are pregnant or have recently given birth and need further information or advice, our team is here to help you.

Donate monthly One-off gift

Our Partners

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You can unsubscribe at anytime.
We need to keep your details in order to send you information but will not share them - full Privacy Policy here

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Birthrights - your human rights during pregnancy and maternity care

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✓ Information and advice during pregnancy & childbirth ✓ Factsheets ✓ Translated pregnancy factsheets ✓ Maternal requests for caesareans ✓ Homebirths ✓ Training for healthcare professionals, doulas and childbirth educators ✓ Campaigning for change ✓ Your human rights during pregnancy and childbirth

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Proud 2 b Parents is an inclusive organisation for all routes to parenthood. We are run by and deliver services for LGBT+ parents/ carers to be , LGBT+ parents/ carers and their children living in Greater Manchester.

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Omeprazole leaflet - for those having a planned caesarean section

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Omeprazole leaflet - for those having a planned caesarean section

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Webpage:

https://porternutrition.co.uk/home/services-available/nutrition-workshops/postnatal-nutrition-workshop/

Book onto your course here

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Postnatal nutrition workshop - Porter Nutrition - Information for GPs

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'My Birthing Centre experience' NHS North Manchester

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Benefits and risks of a caesarean birth (video to watch) 

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Benefits and risks of a caesarean birth (video to watch) 

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Planned Caesarean Birth (Consent Advice No. 14) | RCOG

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This guidance is for healthcare professionals to aid the provision of appropriate and balanced information about the potential benefits, risks and alternative modes of childbirth to those considering a planned (elective) caesarean birth.

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Generic Bonding Before Birth Leaflet No Venue V1.1

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Infant feeding support and contact information

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Infant feeding support and contact information

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MFT infant feeding support leaflet updated july 2025

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https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/tour-of-bluebell-birth-centre-saint-marys-at-north-manchester-tickets-1372316859669

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Manchester Birth Centre tour information

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Manchester Birth Centre tour information

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https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/manchester-birth-centre-tours-wythenshawe-3006719

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Click below for more information

UK Car Seat Guidance and Law

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Welcome to the POGP Pregnancy and Early Postnatal section.

Find out more about pregnancy and early postnatal topics on our dedicated pages:

External links

Coming soon - collection of videos featuring women who have spoken out about their experience of suffering from the effects of an obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI)

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Welcome to the POGP Pregnancy and Early Postnatal section.

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Birth After Caesarean Section information leaflet

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Birth After Caesarean Section information leaflet