Feelings, relationships and pregnancy

Pregnancy brings big changes to your life, especially if this is your first baby. Some people find it easier to cope with these changes than others do. Everybody is different.

You may find that you are having arguments with your partner while you’re pregnant. It’s important to talk with your partner about how you’re feeling. If you are worried about your relationship, talk to a friend, family member or your midwife.

If you are experiencing relationship problems during pregnancy, Tommys offer information and support.
Tommys Office Tel. : 020 7398 3400 (for general enquiries)

Gingerbread is a self-help organisation for single-parent families. It has a network of local groups and can give you information and advice. The charity can also put you in touch with other parents in a similar situation to you.
Helpline: 0808 802 0925

Domestic abuse

Domestic abuse or domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, financial or coercive control. It is often a combination of these.

Pregnancy can be a trigger for domestic abuse, and existing abuse may get worse during pregnancy or after giving birth.

If you’re pregnant and being abused, get help. You can speak in confidence to a GP, midwife, obstetrician, health visitor, or social worker.

Information about you will not be shared with other services without your permission unless there’s a concern that your unborn child or other children in your family, or someone else, is at risk of serious harm.

Further information can be found on our Safe Home page.

Or call the 24-hour freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge – 0808 2000 247 for free, confidential advice.

Poor quality housing & homelessness

If money is an immediate concern, find out more about the maternity and paternity benefits and leave you’re entitled to claim. Your local Jobcentre Plus or Citizens Advice service can advise you.

If you have a housing problem, contact your local Citizens Advice or your local housing advice centre.

You might be eligible for a Sure Start Maternity Grant on GOV.UK, or Healthy Start vouchers for free milk, vegetables and vitamins.

The Together Project - Maternity Passport

Delivering maternity care to parents with learning disabilities

The Together Project produced a Maternity Passport to be completed with and held by parents. This will support personalised preparation for parenthood and enable consistent and individualised information sharing with professionals, family and friends.

Learn more about the Together Project.