Pregnancy Care


The Maternity & Infant Care Scheme

Congratulations, you are about to become a mum and here at The Palms Surgery we are delighted to be part of your journey. We are very fortunate to have our own very experienced midwife, enabling us to care for you and your baby in the best possible way. During your pregnancy you will receive what is known as “combined care” which is provided FREE OF CHARGE under the Maternity and Infant Care Scheme. This means that your care will alternate between visits to the hospital and your GP/midwife, here at the surgery.

Antenatal Care

Your first visit to your GP will generally be before the 12th week of pregnancy. At this point you will sign a form confirming that you have not sought care with any other GP and that you agree to attend here for your antenatal care. This form is then sent to the Local Health Office by the surgery, shortly afterwards you will receive a white combined care card in the post. Your GP will generally then ask you to book a visit with the midwife at the surgery, which will be at 10 – 12 weeks gestation. During your first visit with the midwife she will organise for a referral letter to be sent to the hospital, give you information in relation to pregnancy and discuss any concerns you may have. Your first visit to the Antenatal Clinic/Obstetrician at the hospital is generally before the 20th week of pregnancy. This appointment will be posted to you after the referral has been made. Around this time you will generally have an appointment for your first scan. Subsequent visits to us will generally be at 28, 30, 34, 37 and 39 weeks and will be mainly led by our midwife. These visits will comprise of a check up to ensure that your pregnancy is progressing normally and that both you and your baby are healthy. Your combined care schedule is subject to change depending on what is decided by your Obstetrician/GP.

Please Note: It is your responsibility to make the appointments when they are due.

Post Natal Care

After you have had your baby your care will be continued here at The Palms Surgery, with check ups for you and your baby. • within two weeks of birth – this visit is an ideal opportunity to check on baby’s development and discuss any feeding problems or other concerns you may have in relation to your new arrival. IMPORTANT – when booking this appointment please register your baby with the receptionist and explain that it is a two week check. • at six weeks of age – this visit is a check up for both you and your baby. IMPORTANT – when booking this appointment please confirm that your baby is registered with the practice and explain that this is a six week check.

ONLY the visits listed under Antenatal Care and Post Natal Care are provided FREE OF CHARGE under the Maternity and Infant Care Scheme. Normal fees will apply to visits that are not directly related to your pregnancy, visits to Caredoc and administering flu or pertussis vaccines. Please ensure that you bring your white card with you on each visit to the surgery. We hope that your pregnancy will be a pleasant and enjoyable experience. Please do not hesitate to ask if we can be of help along the way.