Colindale Midwives Community by

rfcolindale — 2022-05-09 14:23:36 UTC

Midwives are the lead experts in caring for low-risk women throughout their antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal periods. We work alongside obstetricians if a woman has more complications, always catering your care to what is safe for you and your baby. Putting your needs and wants first is what midwives advocate for and we tailor and individualize care around you.

rfcolindale — 2022-05-10 11:37:22 UTC

Welcome all to meet the Colindale team midwives!
We have a range of midwives in the team who cater their care and services to suit your needs!
Putting you in the center of what we do, we hope to make your pregnancy experience the best one yet!
We provide you with complete continuity of care, which means you see a member of our team all the way throughout your pregnancy experience. The aim of this is to provide you with a familiar face who you know and trust to make this exciting journey even better!

Your Postnatal Stay in Hospital

rfcolindale — 2022-05-10 11:40:43 UTC

After your baby is born, and depending on the type of delivery that you had, you may stay in the hospital for a few days if necessary. If everything was uncomplicated, natural and straight forward, you may be discharged from hospital within the first 6 hours.

Follow this link to our page regarding the current arrangements for visitors during your stay with us after your baby's arrival. The details for amenity rooms can also be found here.

Postnatal Visits at Home

rfcolindale — 2022-05-10 11:42:24 UTC

One of our community midwives visit you the day following your discharge from hospital to check on you and your baby. The next visit will generally be on day 5, when we check your baby's weight and complete the Newborn Blood Spot Screening if you are happy for them to have it. Information on this test can be found here.

Your midwife will then set the next visit based on the needs of you and your baby. We will usually visit until day 14-28, after which time your care is handed over to the health visiting team.

Laura Martinez

rfcolindale — 2022-05-10 12:01:51 UTC

Our Team Leader!

Born in Spain but healthcare career developed in Ireland and England.

My background is within Nursing and Midwifery.

I have been working in Chelsea and Westminster Hospital as a Recovery Nurse in Maternity before becoming a Registered Midwife so I have been supporting women and babies for a long time now 💚.

I have been a community/case-loading midwife for 4 years and have been enjoying every second of it.

I am focused on making women safe as they follow this natural process.

I love being alongside women at every step of their journey, having conversations with them throughout where they get to make the choices that are very important to them and their babies.

🗓Clinic day: Thursday.

📍Clinic Location: Silkstream Children's Centre.

📞 07929778793

Yocheved Kesselman

rfcolindale — 2022-05-10 12:02:16 UTC

𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 (𝘾𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙧𝙖-𝙨𝙝𝙮) 𝗺𝗶𝗱𝘄𝗶𝗳𝗲

Having trained at the Royal Free Hospital, and worked there since, I am an experienced midwife who is passionate about providing continuity to the women in my care.
I am excited to enhance your experience of maternity care by caring for you in your pregnancy, during your labour and birth, and at home in the postnatal period.

Looking forward to meeting you at our “Meet the midwives Sessions”. 😉

🗓Clinic day: Monday.

📍Clinic Location: Silkstream Children's Centre.

📞07976842267

Tayyaba Rouf

rfcolindale — 2022-05-10 12:02:45 UTC

Being a part of a continuity of care team means that I get to be a part of your pregnancy journey right from the beginning till the end of your postnatal period. I am excited to meet many of you and discuss all things related to pregnancy and postpartum.

I Hope to support you during this time and would love to get to facilitate your births wherever that may be!

Wishing you the best in this journey, and hope to get to share these special moments with you.

🗓Clinic day: Tuesday.

📍Clinic Location: The Greentop.

📞07929790911

Asha Mohammed *Maternity Leave

rfcolindale — 2022-05-10 12:03:08 UTC

I trained at Royal free hospital and continued my midwifery journey with them. I got the opportunity to rotate and gain knowledge and experience in antenatal, intrapartum and postpartum care.

I am passionate and excited to support you and your family throughout this life changing time in your lives. I am Also here to empower you with the resources you need to enable you to make decisions for you and your baby.

Excited to meet you all soon 😊

🗓Clinic day: Friday.

📍Clinic Location: The Silkstream Children's Center.

📞 07976323802

Angelina Angeli On Secondment

rfcolindale — 2022-05-10 12:04:24 UTC

I am a passionate midwife who thrives on making your pregnancy experience the best one yet. I don't believe in 'normal, standard care', I believe in tailoring our sessions to you and making everything individual.
Having trained at Barnet for 3 years, I have experience in all three hospitals we offer. Covering Chase farm, Barnet and Royal free.
I believe having a baby is one of the greatest experiences a family goes through, and in my care I try to include the surrounding family along the journey as well as much as possble! And more so, I will always try and make everything FUN!

🗓Clinic day: Fridays

📍Clinic Location: The Hyde Children's Centre

📞07773581919

Amy Poynton

rfcolindale — 2022-05-10 12:04:38 UTC

Born in Ireland 🇮🇪 but building a family in London 👨‍👩‍👦.

I would like to say that I am thrilled to be part of the Colindale team.

I have previously worked at the Royal Free across the ward areas but community based continuity of care is my passion.

I am looking forward to supporting you to bring your little one (or ones!) into the world.

Whether you have lots of questions on your mind (no question is a silly question) or would like breastfeeding support, I will be with you every step of the way through your pregnancy and during those early days after your baby has been born.

🗓Clinic day: Wednesdays.

📍Clinic Location: Silkstream Children Centre.

Colindale Team pack

rfcolindale — 2022-05-10 13:24:11 UTC

rfcolindale — 2022-05-10 13:37:31 UTC

Asha

rfcolindale — 2022-05-29 11:52:18 UTC

Angelina

rfcolindale — 2022-05-29 12:12:03 UTC

Li Cunanan

rfcolindale — 2022-05-29 13:15:17 UTC

Hi I'm Li,
I'm the only Midwife Assistant in the team.
Most likely you will meet me in your antenatal appointments, and perhaps after you have your baby at home, to provide postnatal care and breastfeeding support.
I'm originally from the Philippines and a midwife by profession in my own country. So knowing a lot about midwifery I can confidently say you're in good hands with the team❤️

Tayyaba

rfcolindale — 2022-05-29 14:59:05 UTC

Please see attached our free parenthood classes!

rfcolindale — 2022-05-29 15:03:24 UTC

Li Cunanan

rfcolindale — 2022-06-22 17:39:14 UTC

Our camera shy Yocheved

rfcolindale — 2022-08-10 07:54:25 UTC

Laura

rfcolindale — 2022-08-10 07:55:50 UTC

Contact for Royal Free Hospital

rfcolindale — 2022-08-10 08:07:32 UTC

Switchboard: 020 7794 0500
Department extension numbers:
Appointment line - 0203 758 2022 - option 2 Sapphire team
Scans - 35644
Triage - 36208
Maternity Day Unit - 33845
Antenatal/Postnatal Ward - 33845
Labour Ward - 020 7830 2721

Contact for Barnet Hospital

rfcolindale — 2022-08-10 08:07:57 UTC

Switchboard: 020 3758 2000
Department extension numbers:
Appointment line - 0203 758 2022 - option 2 Sapphire team
Scans - 0208 216 5216
Triage - 0208 216 4408
Maternity Day Unit - 0208 261 5144
Antenatal/Postnatal Ward - 0208 216 5219
Labour Ward - 0208 216 5180

Weigh your baby!

rfcolindale — 2022-08-10 10:42:55 UTC

Child benefit

rfcolindale — 2022-08-10 10:44:45 UTC

https://www.gov.uk/child-benefit

Are you entitled?

rfcolindale — 2022-08-10 10:45:37 UTC

Healthy Start Vouchers

rfcolindale — 2022-08-10 10:46:09 UTC

https://www.healthystart.nhs.uk/how-to-apply/

Hot weather alert

rfcolindale — 2022-08-10 12:21:25 UTC

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/first-aid-and-safety/safety/safety-in-the-sun/

rfcolindale — 2022-09-05 16:27:14 UTC

https://ratemynhs.co.uk/survey/8235cebc-93bd-4fdb-a5e1-a1c350b72a6e

North Central London Maternity Services are currently working to improve the pelvic health care that you receive from the NHS during and after pregnancy. Pelvic health problems may include leaking of urine (pee) and/or stool (poo), prolapse (bulging or swelling), injuries and infection in the area between the vagina and anus, pelvic girdle pain (pain in the pelvic area and/or back) and abdominal rectus diastasis (tummy muscle separation).

To make sure that the care we offer meets your needs, we would like to hear about your experiences and your suggestions for improvement. The results of this survey will be used by your local service to understand what we are doing right and how we can improve.

This survey has been developed with service users. The information will be collected and seen by North Central London Maternity Services and will only be shared with others in a way that would not identify you. You do not have to complete this survey if you do not want to.

Register with us to answer a short survey (3 minutes) and receive invites to focus groups. For more information and to register your interest, please contact Holly.Davies12@nhs.net

rfcolindale — 2022-09-05 17:04:40 UTC

rfcolindale — 2022-09-05 17:04:55 UTC

Translatable resources

rfcolindale — 2022-09-20 11:00:34 UTC

https://padlet.com/charlotteeaston1/Bookmarks

Self-referral physio

rfcolindale — 2022-09-20 11:15:50 UTC

https://www.royalfree.nhs.uk/services/services-a-z/therapy-services/physiotherapy/pelvic-health-physiotherapy/

Sleep deprivation is normal

rfcolindale — 2022-09-20 11:23:02 UTC

SIDS, what is it?

rfcolindale — 2022-09-20 11:29:24 UTC

Smoking

rfcolindale — 2022-09-20 11:30:04 UTC

Postnatal Depression

rfcolindale — 2022-09-20 11:32:08 UTC

Mental Health in pregnancy

rfcolindale — 2022-09-20 11:32:43 UTC

MIND

rfcolindale — 2022-09-20 11:33:15 UTC

rfcolindale — 2022-09-20 11:33:36 UTC

Different languages/audios

rfcolindale — 2022-09-20 11:34:54 UTC

https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/health-professionals/free-pregnancy-resources/leaflet-and-banner-feeling-your-baby-move-sign-they-are-well

Say something about your care!

rfcolindale — 2022-10-27 08:29:02 UTC

https://www.royalfree.nhs.uk/patients-visitors/patient-experience/

rfcolindale — 2022-11-15 10:22:53 UTC

rfcolindale — 2022-11-15 10:23:27 UTC

rfcolindale — 2022-11-15 10:29:59 UTC

Amy

rfcolindale — 2022-11-28 09:47:03 UTC

rfcolindale — 2022-11-28 09:49:49 UTC

https://www.royalfree.nhs.uk/contact-us/patient-advice-and-liaison-service-pals/

Add up your scores!

rfcolindale — 2022-12-14 11:11:17 UTC

Edgeware Birth Centre

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:45:52 UTC

Contact us:
0203758 2434 Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
Email: rf.ebc@nhs.net

If you are unable to contact the midwife or for any other concerns about yourself or your baby please call Barnet Hospital Maternity Triage on 0208 216 4408.

Visiting

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:47:47 UTC

| With effect from Monday 21st November 2022,

One partner or companion can attend all antenatal clinic appointments and pregnancy scans.
One partner or companion can attend the Maternity Day Unit (Barnet) and Day Assessment Unit (Royal Free) and Triage units at both sites.
Two birth partners can support women on the labour wards and in the birth centres.
One partner or companion can visit throughout a 24-hour period on Victoria ward and 5 South (antenatal / postnatal wards)
One additional partner or companion is permitted on Victoria ward and 5 South (antenatal / postnatal wards) between 2pm-8pm. The second visitor can be a sibling.

We remind all visitors that they must remain vigilant regarding infection control precautions. Face face masks must be worn when in the hospital building and adherence to hand hygiene and social distancing to be observed at all times

Feedback - Friends and Family Test

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:50:03 UTC

| What is the NHS Friends and Family Test?
The NHS Friends and Family Test is based on one straightforward question that we are asking people who are accessing a wide range of NHS services. It means you can give your feedback about the care you have received. The NHS wants to make sure that you have the best possible experience of care and the NHS Friends and Family Test is a way of gathering your feedback, so we can understand what has worked well and, where necessary, make improvements.

How does it work?
By clicking the links below, you will be able to tell us about your experience of our on antenatal, labour and postnatal care both within the hospital and with your community midwifery team.

Antenatal Care Survey
Postnatal Care Survey
Labour Care Survey

You can also provide us with your feedback by vising our website. www.royalfree.nhs.uk/maternity

How will the results be used?
Your feedback will help us to learn more about our services.

We want you to tell us what we are doing well - so we can do more of it, but it's also important that you tell us what you didn't like and where we can do better. We'll use your feedback to make changes that will help us to offer a continually improving standard of maternity care.

If you would like any help, advice or have any concerns about your care, you can also contact our Patient Advise and Liaison service (PALS) either via email: rf.pals@nhs.net or telephone on 020 7472 6446. In addition to our PALS team, if you have concerns about your care you can also ask to speak to a Senior Midwifery Manager.

Maternity Voice Partnership (MVP)

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:51:16 UTC

| The MVP is a group of parents, parents to be and maternity staff all working together to make the maternity care at RFL the best it can be.

If you would like to be more involved in the maternity care provided by the Royal Free, you can join the Royal Free Maternity Voices. Please email: royalfreematernityvoices@gmail.com

Formal Complaints

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:51:53 UTC

| Advice on making an NHS complaint

It can be difficult to know where to start when making a complaint, so here are some tips to ensure that we can begin looking into your complaint as soon as we receive it.

NHS complaints should be made as soon as possible after the event, as it is easier for everyone involved to remember what happened.
NHS complaints must be made within 12 months of the incident or within 12 months of discovering that you have cause to complain.
Please provide as much relevant information as you can: name, address, date of birth, the name and address of the patient (if different), hospital MRN/NHS number (if known), a full description of all the issues about which you wish to complain, relevant dates and times, the name(s) of the staff(s) and the ward name(s)/department(s) involved
If you have more than one concern, it helps to number the points you are making, so we can make sure we answer all your concerns.
If you make a complaint on behalf of someone else, complete the relevant consent form so that we can respond to you and disclose confidential details of the patient’s care. The investigation will not commence until consent is received.

Booking appointment

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:55:19 UTC

| Once you decide that you would like to have your baby with us we will arrange your booking appointment with a midwife. This appointment will either be done face to face or via Attend Anywhere and this is the opportunity to work with your midwife to begin planning your antenatal care. This appointment usually take place prior to 13 weeks of pregnancy.

At this appointment the midwife will take a detailed medical and social history, including details of any previous pregnancies. At the appointment you can discuss whether you would prefer to have your baby at home, at one of our birth centres or on one of our delivery suites. You will also discuss whether you would like to have any antenatal screening tests.

You will also be given the contact details of your named midwife who will have overall responsibility for co-ordinating your care and supporting your choices throughout your pregnancy.

Screening Tests

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:56:03 UTC

| We recommend a number of screening tests both during your pregnancy and following your baby's birth. We will discuss them at your booking appointment and then periodically through your pregnancy. Linked below are the leaflets by Public Health England describing these tests.

Smoking in pregnancy

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:56:42 UTC

| Speak to your midwife if you are currently smoking and would like help to quit. Click below for information on how smoking can affect you and your baby.

Healthy eating in pregnancy

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:57:09 UTC

| A healthy diet is important for the health and growth of your baby. Click below for some helpful advice and information on foods we would recommend and those to avoid.

NIPT

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:57:38 UTC

Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Screening Programme

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:58:05 UTC

Diabetes and Pregnancy

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:58:25 UTC

Antenatal Appointments Frequency

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 14:59:16 UTC

| During your pregnancy, you will have regular appointments with you midwife and the wider healthcare team. Where these appointments take place will depend on your individual circumstances and preferences.

The main purpose of these appointments is to monitor yours and your baby’s wellbeing as well as to provide support and guidance about your pregnancy and to help you make informed choices about your care.

Follow this link to the page that explains what appointments you will be offered and a brief outline of any screening that will occur at these appointments. At all appointments, we will test your urine and take your blood pressure. From 26 weeks we will also start measuring your bump (if you do not require additional scans towards the end of pregnancy) and listen to your baby’s heart using a handheld Doppler.

Antenatal Education

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:00:42 UTC

|  We are delighted to announce that we are rolling out virtual parenthood education workshops to all clients starting from August.

Classes will be available for clients to book direct via the Eventbrite links.

To book, follow the below links to the Eventbrite site:
Becoming a Parent
Preparing for Birth
Infant Feeding

Your Baby's Movements

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:02:34 UTC

| Between 16 and 24 weeks of pregnancy, you should start feeling your baby move. Click here for information on the importance of getting to know these movements.

Below is the current advice from Tommy's and the NHS regarding your baby's movements in pregnancy. This leaflet is also available in other languages.

Bonding With Your Baby

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:03:16 UTC

| Did you know that your baby can hear you from as early as 16 weeks of pregnancy? See link for information on how to ensure that you are doing all you can to build a strong bond with your unborn baby.

Aspirin in Pregnancy

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:03:48 UTC

| Some pregnant women are at risk of developing pre-eclampsia (a serious condition which usually presents as high blood pressure and protein in the urine) and intrauterine growth restriction (when the baby is smaller than usual due to not growing at a normal rate in the womb). There is evidence to suggest that this group of women are at reduced risk of developing these conditions if they take a low dose of aspirin during their pregnancy.

Why might I need aspirin during my pregnancy?
If you have one of the following risk factors, aspirin may be recommended during your pregnancy:
Hypertensive disease during your previous pregnancy
Chronic kidney disease
Autoimmune disease such as systemic lupus erythematosis or antiphospholipid syndrome
Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
Chronic hypertension
Low Pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein (PAPP-A) screening blood test
Previous Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) (either birth weight <2.5kg or <10th centile)
Previous stillbirth
Previous pre-eclampsia/eclampsia

If you have two of the following risk factors, aspirin may be recommended during your pregnancy:
First pregnancy
Pregnancy interval of more than 10 years
Family history of pre-eclampsia
IVF pregnancy
Age 40 years or older
Multiple pregnancy
Body Mass index (BMI) of 35Kg/m2 or more at first contact

How much aspirin will I be advised to take?
You will be prescribed 150mg of aspirin to take once daily (although a small number of women may be prescribed a larger dose). You should take this as soon as you receive the prescription (as this is associated with better outcomes) until the birth of your baby.

How will I receive the prescription?
Most risk factors will be identified by your midwife at your first booking appointment. The midwife will send a letter to your doctor to request the prescription which you can collect from your doctor’s surgery.

Some risk factors may be identified later in your pregnancy, for example following an ultrasound scan. If this is the case your midwife or doctor will inform you at that time and will notify your doctor in the same manner.

Are there any contraindications to taking aspirin?
There are some rare medical conditions were aspirin would not be recommended. You doctor will advise you if this applies to you.

Should you require further advice on the issues contained in this leaflet, please do not hesitate to contact your midwife or doctor.

Pre-Eclampsia

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:06:19 UTC

| Pre-eclampsia is a condition that affects some women usually around 20 weeks of their pregnancy or sometimes just after delivery of their baby.

The symptoms of severe pre-eclampsia include:
Severe headache that doesn’t go away with simple painkillers
Problems with vision, such as blurring or flashing in the eyes
Severe pain just below the ribs
Heartburn that doesn’t go away with antacids
Rapidly increasing swelling of the face, hands or feet
Feeling very unwell

These symptoms are serious and you should seek medical help immediately. If in doubt, contact your named midwife or the maternity unit at your local hospital/the hospital you are booked at.

Mid-Steam Urine Sample

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:06:45 UTC

| You will need to provide a urine sample at each antenatal contact you have. The purpose of the MSU is to:
confirm the presence of a urine infection
decide the best antibiotics to use

The aim is to get a sample of urine which is from the middle of your bladder where it is less likely that there will be bacteria present. If bacteria are found in the sample it may mean that an infection is present. A midstream sample is best as the first bit of the urine can be contaminated by bacteria from the skin and or from vaginal discharge.

Providing a correct MSU sample reduces the over diagnosis of urine infection due to contamination from the skin or vaginal discharge. See photo below for correct collection procedure for an MSU.

Fetal Growth Assessment Your Baby's Size Matters!

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:07:28 UTC

| Why?
Babies that do not meet their growth potential are more prone to complications. Early detection of small babies can improve health outcomes.

How?
We use the ‘Growth Assessment Protocol (GAP)’ developed by the Perinatal Institute.

We will create a Customised Growth Chart for your pregnancy to monitor your baby’s growth. The chart is produced according to your individual characteristics, such as weight, height, ethnicity and number of previous pregnancies. The use of customised growth charts has been endorsed by The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

Your Midwife will measure the growth of your baby by measuring from the top of the womb to the pubic bone and then she will plot the measurement with an ‘X’ on your customised growth chart.

When?
Your Midwife will print the Customised Chart and will start plotting the measurements from 26-28 weeks. If we suspect that your baby is not measuring as expected you will be referred for a Growth ultrasound Scan.

Why Not?
Some women who deliver at Barnet, Royal Free or Edgware will have their antenatal care outside the trust and the GP or midwife monitoring their pregnancy may not be trained to use these charts. In such cases we recommend you have your care at the hospital you have booked with.

You may choose to continue your antenatal care outside of our trust but still deliver at Barnet which will opt you out of the GAP/GROW programme. This means that your pregnancy monitoring for fetal growth will be done in the traditional way that is not customised for you and may prevent early recognition of fetal growth restriction that may present a risk to your pregnancy.

Travel advice in pregnancy

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:07:51 UTC

Maternity Certificate (MAT B1)

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:08:22 UTC

Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPS)

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:08:41 UTC

Whooping Cough Vaccination

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:09:05 UTC

| Your midwife will discuss the whooping cough vaccination that is recommended to take between 16 and 32 weeks of your pregnancy. Please have a look at the below leaflet for more information on why this vaccination is recommended.

Perineal Massage

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:09:32 UTC

Pelvic Floor Exercises

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:09:57 UTC

| Doing pelvic floor exercises regularly will help prevent you accidentally leaking wee when you cough or strain, both during your pregnancy and after your baby is born.

Where are my pelvic floor muscles?
Your pelvic floor muscles surround and support all the organs in your pelvis - your womb, bowels and bladder.

How to find your pelvic floor muscles
You can find out where the pelvic floor muscles are and how you control them next time you go to the toilet. As you wee, try to stop the flow briefly. The muscles you use to do this are your pelvic floor muscles. (Don’t do this more than once, though. It’s not good for your bladder to stop mid-wee and doing it regularly may lead to a urinary tract infection).

Why pelvic floor exercises are important
During your pregnancy, your pelvic floor muscles will loosen due to hormonal changes in your body. This loosening, along with your growing baby pressing on your bladder, may cause you to leak urine when you cough, laugh, sneeze or exercise.

Doing pelvic floor exercises will strengthen these muscles and help you control any accidents. It will also help you ease your baby out during labour, and recover faster after the birth.

How do I exercise my pelvic floor muscles?
Once you’ve found your pelvic floor muscles, try stopping an imaginary wee rather than a real one. Once you can locate them like this, you can exercise them any time you like by tightening and lifting.

To tighten and lift your pelvic floor muscles, imagine doing the following at the same time:
squeezing your bottom as if stopping a poo
squeezing to stop the flow of wee
squeezing as though you’re gripping a tampon in your vagina.

You can do pelvic floor exercises anywhere you like. Nobody will know what you’re doing - as long as you don’t raise your eyebrows each time you squeeze! You can exercise on the bus, while you’re on the phone or waiting in the supermarket queue.

Quick Tip
It can be helpful to link your pelvic floor exercises to something you do often, such as waiting for the train or waiting for the kettle to boil. This will make it easy to remember to do them.

Slow squeeze pelvic floor exercise
This exercise will help support the organs in your pelvis and your growing baby. You may not be able to hold this squeeze for long at first, but keep building up the time and make sure you always release it slowly.
Slowly tighten your pelvic floor, lifting the muscles inwards and upwards.
Continue lifting up through your pelvis and into your tummy.
Try to hold it for 4 seconds, then release slowly.

If you find you struggle to hold the squeeze for this long and there’s nothing left to release, try holding it for less time at first and working up to 4 seconds.
Gradually increase the length of the hold. Make sure you always have some of the squeeze left to release and that you’re able to release slowly at the end of the exercise.

Quick squeeze pelvic floor exercises
This exercise will help make you less likely to wet yourself!
Tighten and lift your pelvic floor in one quick contraction, squeezing the muscles inwards and upwards.
Pause before releasing slowly.
Relax fully at the end.

Try to perform each repetition with the same speed and strength as the first. Remember to breathe normally when you’re doing your pelvic floor exercises.

How often should I do my pelvic floor exercises?
Once you get used to doing them, start off with 5 squeezes 5 times a day. Increase this to 10 squeezes 5 times a day if you can. Try to do a mixture of slow and quick squeezes.

Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT)

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:10:20 UTC

| Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar (glucose) that develops during pregnancy and usually disappears after giving birth.

It can happen at any stage of pregnancy, but is more common in the second or third trimester.

It happens when your body cannot produce enough insulin – a hormone that helps control blood sugar levels – to meet your extra needs in pregnancy.

Gestational diabetes can cause problems for you and your baby during pregnancy and after birth. But the risks can be reduced if the condition is detected early and well managed.

Who's at risk of gestational diabetes
Any woman can develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy, but you're at an increased risk if:

your body mass index (BMI) is above 30 – use the BMI healthy weight calculator to work out your BMI
you previously had a baby who weighed 4.5kg (10lb) or more at birth
you had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy
1 of your parents or siblings has diabetes
you are of south Asian, Black, African-Caribbean or Middle Eastern origin (even if you were born in the UK)

If any of these apply to you, you should be offered screening for gestational diabetes during your pregnancy.

Symptoms of gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes does not usually cause any symptoms. Most cases are only discovered when your blood sugar levels are tested during screening for gestational diabetes.

Some women may develop symptoms if their blood sugar levels gets too high (hyperglycaemia), such as:
increased thirst
needing to pee more often than usual
a dry mouth
tiredness

But some of these symptoms are common during pregnancy and are not necessarily a sign of gestational diabetes. Speak to your midwife or doctor if you're worried about any symptoms you're experiencing.

How gestational diabetes can affect your pregnancy
Most women with gestational diabetes have otherwise normal pregnancies with healthy babies.

However, gestational diabetes can cause problems such as:
your baby growing larger than usual – this may lead to difficulties during the delivery and increases the likelihood of needing induced labour or a caesarean section
polyhydramnios – too much amniotic fluid (the fluid that surrounds the baby) in the womb, which can cause premature labour or problems at delivery
premature birth – giving birth before the 37th week of pregnancy
pre-eclampsia – a condition that causes high blood pressure during pregnancy and can lead to pregnancy complications if not treated
your baby developing low blood sugar or yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) after he or she is born, which may require treatment in hospital
the loss of your baby (stillbirth) – though this is rare

Having gestational diabetes also means you're at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

Screening for gestational diabetes
During your first antenatal appointment (also called a booking appointment) at around week 8 to 12 of your pregnancy, your midwife or doctor will ask you some questions to determine whether you're at an increased risk of gestational diabetes.

If you have 1 or more risk factors for gestational diabetes you should be offered a screening test.

The screening test is called an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), which takes about 2 hours.

It involves having a blood test in the morning, when you have not had any food or drink for 8 to 10 hours (though you can usually drink water, but check with the hospital if you're unsure). You're then given a glucose drink.

After resting for 2 hours, another blood sample is taken to see how your body is dealing with the glucose.

The OGTT is done when you're between 24 and 28 weeks pregnant. If you've had gestational diabetes before, you'll be offered an OGTT earlier in your pregnancy, soon after your booking appointment, then another OGTT at 24 to 28 weeks if the first test is normal.

You can book your GTT here:
https://www.swiftqueue.co.uk/pre_timescreen.php?id=10084

Maternity day assessment units

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:10:58 UTC

| We have maternity day assessment units on the 2nd floor of Barnet Hospital and on the 5th floor of the Royal Free Hospital. Our specialist maternity day assessment units are for women who require additional care, monitoring and treatment during their pregnancy and after birth.

The reasons you may need to attend the day assessment unit include:

having high blood pressure in pregnancy
the baby not moving as much as usual during pregnancy
you are having severe itching during pregnancy
you are having a problem with a Caesarean section wound after the birth
you are having a problem with the stitches in your perineum after birth

If you have any concerns or would like to know more, you can contact the maternity day assessment unit on 020 7794 0500 x65144 (Barnet Hospital) or 020 7794 0500 x33846 (Royal Free Hospital).

Opening hours
Barnet Hospital:

Monday to Friday 8am-11pm
Weekends and bank holidays 8am-8pm

Royal Free Hospital:

Monday to Friday 9am-6pm
Weekends and Bank Holidays 10am-6pm (closed Christmas Day and New Years' Day)

Outside of these hours you will be seen in the maternity triage unit or on the delivery suites.

Group B Strep and pregnancy support

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:11:18 UTC

Tours

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:13:46 UTC

| Maternity tours prior to Covid would be done in person, however due to current restrictions, we are only able to provide the link to the the Royal Free virtual hospital tour hosted by our consultant midwife. We have also attached a video of the Heath Birth Centre for you to refer to.

If we resume face to face tours, your named midwife will endeavor to let you know, but please check the link above for any updates to this provision

Choosing where to have your baby

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:14:26 UTC

| Having a baby is an important event for women and their families. We aim to ensure that the whole childbirth experience is comfortable and relaxed.

At Royal Free Trust, we have a few birth place options available to you and encourage you to have a conversation with your midwife regarding which one is best for you.

Home Birth

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:14:58 UTC

| Mill Hill Team Midwives and Homebirth team serves all families wishing to home birth under the RFL NHS Trust geographical area.

Home Birth Info

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:15:43 UTC

Edgware Birth Centre

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:16:07 UTC

| The Edgware Birth Centre is standalone centre located within Edgware Community Hospital. There are no obstetricians on site and should complications arise during labour you would be transferred to our nearest hospital by ambulance.

All women planning to give birth at Edgware Birth Centre will be cared for by a dedicated team of midwives who will care for you throughout your pregnancy, labour and after your baby is born. Please call the midwife on the number provided by the Edgware Birth Centre Team when you are in labour.

If you are unable to contact the midwife or for any other concerns about yourself or your baby please call Barnet Hospital Maternity Triage on 0208 216 4408.

Facilities
At the Edgware Birth Centre we have:

five ensuite birthing rooms
three birthing pools for you to labour/birth in
birth stools to help you with an upright birth as well as bean bags and birth balls.

Edgware Birth Centre Info

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:16:32 UTC

Heath Birth Centre Tour

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:16:57 UTC

| The Heath Birth Centre is situated on the 5th floor of the Royal Free Hospital.

We have:
two birthing rooms with 'home from home' facilities, including a double bed
a birthing room with birthing pool
birthing equipment such as birthing balls, large floor mats, birthing stools and bean bags

Barnet Birth Centre

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:17:25 UTC

| Barnet Birth Centre is situated on the first floor of the maternity building at Barnet Hospital and offers a range of modern facilities for women and their families. We have:

five birthing suites with private ensuite facilities
three postnatal care rooms with shower and toilet
three birthing pools for you to labour/birth in
a kitchen area.

If complications occur in your labour or you require an epidural for pain relief, you will be transferred to our consultant-led labour ward on the floor below.

Consultant-led delivery suites - RF and BGH site

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:17:55 UTC

| Our consultant-led delivery suites are for women or babies experiencing complications during pregnancy or labour, or for women who have medical problems requiring specialist care. We have delivery suites at Barnet Hospital and the Royal Free Hospital.

We advise expectant mothers to give birth in a delivery suite if you:

go into labour before 37 weeks
require a Caesarean or an epidural
have had medical or obstetric complications during your current or previous pregnancy that make giving birth on the delivery suite safer for you and/or your baby

A team of healthcare professionals including midwives, obstetricians, anaesthetists, paediatricians and healthcare assistants provide care, including a 24 hour epidural service if required. We also have student midwives and medical students on clinical placements working under the supervision.

Packing list for hospital

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:18:59 UTC

| Attached is a list that you can print to help you pack your bags for your stay in hospital. This is just an idea, to get you started! You may think of other things that will make the experience what you want it to be.

Signs of Labour

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:19:25 UTC

| One of the first signs that labour may soon be starting is a “show”. This is a blood stained mucous plug which is passed out of the vagina when your cervix (the neck of the womb) begins to change. This is not a reliable sign and not all women see this. For those women who do see a “show” labour may be as much as two weeks away.

The most common indication that labour has begun is the start of contractions. These can range in intensity from mild irritation to strong pain and may be felt down in your back or like waves moving across your abdomen. It is important to time how often these come and for how long they last.

When contractions are regular (coming every 5-10 minutes), and lasting 45-60 seconds, we would advise you to call triage or your personal midwife before coming into hospital. Please bare in mind, it is possible for your labour to be quicker this time round if you have had a baby before.

If your waters break, this may also be a sign that you are going into labour. But it can often happen before your labour starts, when you are not having contractions. Sometimes this can be confused with a loss of urine. If your waters break you may need to be seen and assessed by a midwife. Always call your midwives, or triage, if you feel your waters may have broken.

Pain Relief in Labour

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:19:40 UTC

| It is completely normal, as an expectant parent, to have questions about the risks that come with some of these procedures you may need around the time of birth. At Labour Pains we aim to provide you with a variety of resources to help answer your questions. During your labour, you may be considering a number of different pain relief options to help cope with labour pains, including epidurals and spinals

Induction of Labour

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:20:03 UTC

Planned Cesarean Section

rfcolindale — 2022-12-19 15:20:35 UTC

| If you are having a planned caesarean section you will be asked to attend the maternity day assessment unit two working days before the date of your caesarean and you will be seen by a midwife, a doctor and an anaesthetist. They will assess you and your baby and complete all of the necessary procedures to ensure you are prepared.

There will be time for any of your questions to be answered so please do ask if you are not sure about something.

Vitamin K for your baby

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:55:06 UTC

Signs of concern - mum and baby

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:55:36 UTC

There are a few things that you need to look out for after you have been discharged home. See the document below for a quick reference guide.

If you are concerned, please ring triage or if you feel that it is an emergency, dial 999.

Newborn Blood Spot Test

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:55:58 UTC

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:56:08 UTC

Your Crying Baby

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:56:28 UTC

ICON training provides information on how to cope when your baby cries and support to help you when you need it.

The lullaby trust

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:56:47 UTC

Baby Check will help you decide whether your baby needs a doctor. Baby Check contains 19 simple checks which test for different symptoms or signs of illness. Each check has a score. Go through all the checks, then add up the score

Newborn Jaundice

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:57:04 UTC

Jaundice is a common and usually harmless condition in newborn babies that causes yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes.

Below is a link to the NHS website providing further information on this condition.

Safe Sleeping

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:57:27 UTC

https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/safer-sleep-advice/

Caring for Your Baby at Night

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:57:39 UTC

https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2018/08/Caring-for-your-baby-at-night-web.pdf

Lullaby Trust: Safer sleep in winter

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:57:56 UTC

Car Travel Advice

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:58:10 UTC

Birth registration

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:58:29 UTC

Please visit the government's website for up to date information regarding birth registration.

Babies should be registered within 42 days of their birth to avoid the risk of a fine. Registering your baby is necessary in order for you to register them at your GP, obtain a passport and apply for tax credits.

Pelvic Health

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:58:43 UTC

Health visitor contact information

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 10:58:53 UTC

Health visitors are either registered nurses or midwives who have had additional training in public health. They provide support to all families and will support you from pregnancy until your child is 5 years old.
A health visitor will usually contact you around 10 days after you have had your baby and usually take over your care from a midwife.
If you have not heard from the health visitor by the team the midwives have discharged you from their care then please call this number
020 8200 2500

Guide to breastfeeding

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:02:53 UTC

Storage of breastmilk

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:03:12 UTC

The Breastfeeding Network has produced a leaflet to help you to understand more about expressing and storing breast milk. Their whole website has a wealth of breastfeeding information and tips and a helpline.

Hand expression video

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:03:30 UTC

https://youtu.be/K0zVCwdJZw0

Guide to bottle feeding

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:03:46 UTC

https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2008/02/start4life_guide_to_bottle_-feeding.pdf

Camden Baby Feeding Team

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:04:13 UTC

The Camden Baby Feeding Team offers information and support for parents in Camden during pregnancy and after they have had their baby. They currently provide telephone support and offer video-calls. Some in-person individual clinic appointments are available for complex issues that are not able to be resolved by videocall.

Parents can self-refer or be referred for help with establishing breastfeeding, bottle feeding, mixed feeding, expressing, planning return to work or stopping breastfeeding.

They also run online Baby Feeding groups and support the Health Visiting virtual weekly clinic. See link for details of how to register for these sessions.

Unicef Guidance

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:04:35 UTC

Please follow the link above to view current Unicef guidance on infant feeding in several different languages.

Baby Friendly Initiative

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:04:57 UTC

The Baby Friendly Initiative was set up in 1992 by the World Health Organisation and UNICEF to recognise hospitals that enable mothers to make an informed choice about infant feeding and to be supported in that choice. The Royal Free trust has been awarded the prestigious Baby Friendly Award and in 2016 in recognition of our commitment in providing the highest standards of care around infant feeding and relationship building.

Find out more about the Baby Friendly Initiative.

Best Beginnings Videos

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:05:14 UTC

Includes videos on attachment, the first breastfeed, and breastfeeding problems

Attaching Your Baby at the Breast - Video - Global Health Media Project

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:05:30 UTC

Urgent Safety Alert issued for baby self-feeding pillows

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:05:47 UTC

Feeding your baby

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:06:02 UTC

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:07:06 UTC

Pregnancy and parenthood can be just as confusing and emotional for partners! There isn't a lot of focus on them but we have put together some information and places that offer support.

The Dads Net

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:07:25 UTC

Forums, articles, product reviews and pratical support aimed at dads.

Camden

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:07:45 UTC

Perinatal Mental Health support aimed at dads.

Support for transgender and LGBTQI+ parents

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:08:05 UTC

Sure Start Maternity Grant

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:09:11 UTC

You could get a one-off payment of £500 to help towards the costs of having a child. This is known as a Sure Start Maternity Grant.

You usually qualify for the grant if both of the following apply:
you’re expecting your first child, or you’re expecting a multiple birth (such as twins) and have children already
you or your partner already get certain benefits

You must claim the grant within 11 weeks of the baby’s due date or within 6 months after the baby’s birth.

You do not have to pay the grant back and it will not affect your other benefits or tax credits.

Healthy Start Vouchers

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:09:31 UTC

If you’re pregnant or have a child under 4, the Healthy Start scheme can help you buy basic foods like milk or fruit.

If you qualify for the scheme you’ll be sent vouchers you can use in over 30,000 shops in the UK.

You can also get coupons to swap for:
pregnancy vitamins
breastfeeding vitamins
vitamins for children aged 6 months to 5 years old

IAPT - Mental Health Support

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:09:53 UTC

The Let’s Talk IAPT is part of the government’s Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) initiative.

The service is comprised of:

Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners (PWPs) – who are skilled at helping people find practical ways to manage their difficulties. Methods used include guided self-help, stress management skills, computerised cognitive behavioural therapy and psycho-education groups.

CBT therapists – who are trained to deliver cognitive behavioural therapy with you alone or in a group.

Counsellors who are trained to provide you with an opportunity to talk about day to day difficulties as well as difficulties from the past.

Online Therapy – delivered by accredited therapists and counsellors, using instant chat on a secure platform, available 24/7.

You can either self refer to the service, or speak to your named midwife who will be happy to help you with the referral process.

Women’s health counselling service

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:10:15 UTC

This is a free service for any woman and her partner who is a patient in the maternity unit and gynaecology department at the Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust.

iCope - Mental Health Support

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:10:38 UTC

iCope is a service offered through Camden Council that supports local residents struggling with a variety of mental health conditions.

If you feel you could benefit from their support, please use the self referral form on their website.

The service is comprised of:

Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners (PWPs) – who are skilled at helping people find practical ways to manage their difficulties. Methods used include guided self-help, stress management skills, computerised cognitive behavioural therapy and psycho-education groups.

CBT therapists – who are trained to deliver cognitive behavioural therapy with you alone or in a group.

Counsellors who are trained to provide you with an opportunity to talk about day to day difficulties as well as difficulties from the past.

Online Therapy – delivered by accredited therapists and counsellors, using instant chat on a secure platform, available 24/7.

You can either self refer to the service, or speak to your named midwife who will be happy to help you with the referral process.

Mindfulness

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:11:01 UTC

Mindfulness is a technique you can learn which involves noticing what's happening in the present moment, without judgement. You might take notice and be aware of your mind, body or surroundings. The technique has roots in Buddhism and meditation, but you don't have to be spiritual, or have any particular beliefs, to try it.

Barnet, Enfield and Haringey

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:11:45 UTC

Hertfordshire

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:12:01 UTC

Safeguarding Newsletter - Autumn 2022

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:12:19 UTC

Domestic Abuse Prevention

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:12:39 UTC

The contact details for Domestic Abuse Prevention, clink on link for helpful resources

Tommy's Pregnancy Hub

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:16:50 UTC

Tommy's midwife-led information hub covers everything you need to know about having a safe and healthy pregnancy, from conception to birth.

Information leaflets in different languages

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:18:22 UTC

Information leaflets in different languages and other formats

Along with the advice you are provided by your midwife/doctor and the information on our website, several organisations have produced important information leaflets for women and families in different languages to support women during their pregnancy

rfcolindale — 2023-01-02 11:22:15 UTC

Support with Feeding!

rfcolindale — 2023-05-05 18:38:31 UTC

Susana Ghamian

rfcolindale — 2023-07-15 14:22:16 UTC

I was born in Spain but I've spent most of my life in the UK.
Becoming a midwife was my biggest desire since I became a mother myself. I am now a proud mother of three that gets to enjoy every minute in the most rewarding job.
I've trained and worked since at the Royal Free Hospital and before joining the Colindale community team, I worked at the Labour ward, postnatal ward and antenatal clinic gaining experience in all aspects of antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal care.

I am overjoyed to have joined the team and looking forward to meeting you and your family. I look forward to offering you a personalised care and to support and guide you through this incredible and exciting journey.

🗓Clinic day: Tuesdays

📍Clinic Location: Silkstream Children Center

📞07773580837

Susana Ghamian

rfcolindale — 2023-07-15 14:22:56 UTC

COVID -19

rfcolindale — 2023-10-03 05:17:27 UTC

Anya App

rfcolindale — 2023-10-03 05:19:05 UTC

Ask Teddi

rfcolindale — 2023-10-03 05:19:27 UTC

GAP GROW

rfcolindale — 2023-10-03 05:24:10 UTC

Colindale Midwives Community by

Your Postnatal Stay in Hospital

Postnatal Visits at Home

Laura Martinez

Yocheved Kesselman

Tayyaba Rouf

Asha Mohammed *Maternity Leave

Angelina Angeli *On Secondment*

Amy Poynton

Colindale Team pack

Asha

Angelina

Li Cunanan

Tayyaba

Please see attached our free parenthood classes!

Li Cunanan

Our camera shy Yocheved

Laura

Contact for Royal Free Hospital

Contact for Barnet Hospital

Weigh your baby!

Child benefit

Are you entitled?

Healthy Start Vouchers

Hot weather alert

Translatable resources

Self-referral physio

Sleep deprivation is normal

SIDS, what is it?

Smoking

Postnatal Depression

Mental Health in pregnancy

MIND

Different languages/audios

Say something about your care!

Amy

Add up your scores!

Edgeware Birth Centre

Visiting

Feedback - Friends and Family Test

Maternity Voice Partnership (MVP)

Formal Complaints

Booking appointment

Screening Tests

Smoking in pregnancy

Healthy eating in pregnancy

NIPT

Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Screening Programme

Diabetes and Pregnancy

Antenatal Appointments Frequency

Antenatal Education

Your Baby's Movements

Bonding With Your Baby

Aspirin in Pregnancy

Pre-Eclampsia

Mid-Steam Urine Sample

Fetal Growth Assessment Your Baby's Size Matters!

Travel advice in pregnancy

Maternity Certificate (MAT B1)

Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPS)

Whooping Cough Vaccination

Perineal Massage

Pelvic Floor Exercises

Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT)

Maternity day assessment units

Group B Strep and pregnancy support

Tours

Choosing where to have your baby

Home Birth

Home Birth Info

Edgware Birth Centre

Edgware Birth Centre Info

Heath Birth Centre Tour

Barnet Birth Centre

Consultant-led delivery suites - RF and BGH site

Packing list for hospital

Signs of Labour

Pain Relief in Labour

Induction of Labour

Planned Cesarean Section

Angelina Angeli On Secondment