Pregnancy and Birth
A new arrival on the way is a special, but often chaotic, time in your life. Here are some links to help you plan ahead, including advice for parents-to-be on health, nutrition and fitness.
Family Planning Clinics
There are several family planning clinics in the North East Lincolnshire area, including ones specially for teenagers, which can offer confidential advice on STD's, contraception and pregnancy, and free contraception supplies. Go to http://www.nlg.nhs.uk/sexual-health/family-planning.htm for a full list.
Trying for a Baby
The BBC Health website has some good advice for couples who are trying for a baby at http://www.bbc.co.uk/parenting/having_a_baby/preconception_index.shtml.
Care During Pregnancy
During your pregnancy, it is important to receive regular pre-natal check-ups with a GP or community nurse.
To find your nearest GP or register with a practice, go to http://www.nelpct.nhs.uk/links/html_files/#gp.
A list of community clinics can be found at http://www.nlg.nhs.uk/about/clinics.htm.
NHS Direct has lots of advice for women who are trying for a baby or in the early stages of pregnancy at http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/en.asp?TopicID=610.
Miscarriage
Grimsby's miscarriage support group have a website at http://www.grimsbymiscarriage.co.uk/.
Hospital Births
In summer 2004, Grimsby's maternity unit moved to newly built and specially equipped premises within the main Princess Diana of Wales hospital. The new Women and Children's Unit can be contacted on 01472 874111.
Registering the Birth
All babies born within the UK must be registered within 42 days of birth. North East Lincolnshire Council's registrars can register the birth, even if your baby was born outside the local area. More information can be found on their web pages at /community/birthsdeathsandmarriageregistration/birthregistration.htm.
Baby Naming Ceremonies
Baby naming are a good option for parents that wish to commemorate their baby's birth or officially name the child, within a secular context. Our registrars offer Baby Naming Ceremonies, and more information on the service can be found at /community/birthsdeathsandmarriageregistration/babynamingceremonies.htm.
Christenings
The Grimsby Parish website has some useful contact numbers for parents wishing to arrange a Christening. Go to http://www.saintjames.freeserve.co.uk/index.htm for more information.
Natural Nurturing
The Cleethorpes Natural Nurturing Network is for parents who wish to adopt a more natural approach to parenting, baby health and nutrition. Go to http://beehive.thisisgrimsby.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=SiteHome&ID=3542&PageID=17042 for more information.
The Breastfeeding Network at http://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/ offers advice and support for mothers who already, or hope to, breastfeed their child.
The National Childbirth Trust offers support throughout pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood, and aims to help parents make informed choices about the pregnancy, birth and their care. The Louth and Grimsby branch of the National Childbirth Trust can be contacted at ailsa.lewis@btopenworld.com or grants@tetney7.fsnet.co.uk, or by calling 01507 363 895. The main NCT website can be found at htt p://www.nctpregnancyandbabycare.com/home.asp.
Rights and Advice for New Families
The Maternity Alliance at http://www.maternityalliance.org.uk is a charity that aims to improve rights and services for pregnant women, new parents and their families.
Benefits
Pregnant women and new parents may be eligible for certain benefits and allowances:
• Maternity Allowance
• Sure Start Maternity Grant
• Statutory Maternity Pay
• Maternity Leave
• Child Benefits
• Child Maintenance Bonus
• Child Support Maintenance
• New Deal for Lone Parents