Released on: 20 July 2011

The maternity service in Scotland is adapting to make sure that all women receive the best care. “Pregnant? Tell me” is a new national communications campaign launching on 1st February as part of the enhanced antenatal services for women within NHS Scotland.

The new system means that women no longer need to see their GP to confirm they are pregnant, or to refer them to maternity services. The process will move more quickly as women expecting a baby can be assessed by a midwife very early on. By seeing a midwife straight away, women can receive tailored care throughout their pregnancy from the word go. It also means that women can benefit from the full range of screening options available and hear important health messages in those first few important weeks.

The campaign communications will be delivered through a variety of methods including point-of-sale information within pharmacies, outdoor advertising and online signposting to Ready Steady Baby! www.readysteadybaby.org.uk

Cynthia Clarkson, NCT Maternity Service Co-ordinator, Scotland, says; “Women can now arrange an appointment with a midwife as early as possible after learning of their pregnancy.  It is no longer necessary for a woman to see a GP first, although she may still do so if she wishes.  Seeing a midwife early in pregnancy gives women more choice and control over how their pregnancy will be cared for.” 

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