Pregnancy and Health

It is important for you to stay well when you are pregnant for the health of you and your baby. To stay well you need to look after your mental wellbeing, eat a healthy balanced diet, avoid alcohol and not smoke.

Emotional wellbeing for you and your baby

Building your relationship starts before your baby is born, and can help them in many ways. It’s important for them to feel safe and secure to experience the world as a consistent, loving place so that they grow into a happy, confident person.

A little stress in life is normal, but increased or constant stress can have a lasting effect on both you and your baby. You may find it helpful to speak to family, friends, your Midwife, GP or Health Visitor. More information can be found here:

Eating Well

Eating a healthy balanced diet will help your baby to grow and develop. More info can be found here.

There are some foods you shouldn’t eat when you’re pregnant as they might make you ill or harm your baby. More info can be found here.

Smoking

If you smoke, stopping will help both you and your baby immediately. You will reduce the risk of complications in pregnancy and birth and you are more likely to have a healthier pregnancy and a healthier baby. More info can be found here and you can find local stop smoking service details here.

Alcohol

Drinking whilst pregnant can be harmful for your baby. The safest way is not to drink alcohol at all whilst you are pregnant. More info can be found here.

More info is available here:
Bradford Family Health Service

The short film below is about the risks involved when substance using during pregnancy.

The film features real life experiences of those affected by alcohol and drug use during pregnancy and the impact it has on baby development.

Every Baby Matters is a working group made up health professionals, (midwifes, health visitors etc.) who are reporting an increase in pregnant women who are substance using.

Public Health Bradford created this moving film to raise awareness of the risks in pregnancy, for pre-conception and expectant mothers who use alcohol and drugs.

Find help and support:

Bradford Maternity Services
Dedicated helpline is: 0800 0086074

New Vision Bradford
01274 296023

DrinkCoach
Online alcohol service offering free coaching