If you think you may be pregnant — Congratulations! This page explains what to do next, how to access maternity care, and where to get support so you can make the right choices for you.
The first step is to take a home pregnancy test. These are widely available from pharmacies and supermarkets.
If your test is positive, you do not usually need to see a GP to confirm pregnancy.
How to Access Maternity Care
In East Devon and across the UK, you can self-refer directly to maternity services without seeing a GP first.
You should refer yourself to the local maternity service as early as possible, ideally before 10 weeks pregnant.
Self-referral allows you to:
- Book your first midwife (booking) appointment
- Arrange early pregnancy screening
- Start your antenatal care
Self-referral is usually completed online through Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust using the East Devon Maternity Services self-referral form. A link to the form is available at the bottom of this page.
If you are unsure how to do this, our reception team can guide you.
When to Contact the GP
Please contact the GP practice if you:
- Have a long-term medical condition (e.g. diabetes, epilepsy, high blood pressure)
- Take regular medication
- Have had fertility treatment
- Have a history of pregnancy complications
- Need advice about stopping or changing medication
Important Health Advice in Early Pregnancy
You should take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily until at least 12 weeks of pregnancy. Folic acid helps support your baby’s development and reduces the risk of neural tube defects. Folic acid is available over the counter (OTC) from pharmacies and supermarkets.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for both you and your baby during pregnancy. You can support a healthy pregnancy by:
- Stopping smoking
- Avoiding alcohol
- Limiting caffeine intake
- Eating a balanced, nutritious diet
- Staying physically active if you feel well enough
Small healthy changes can make a big difference to your wellbeing and your baby’s development.
Medication Safety
Do not start, stop, or change prescribed medication without medical advice.
If You Feel Unwell
Contact your midwife, GP, or NHS 111 if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Vaginal bleeding
- Persistent vomiting and dehydration
- Fever or signs of infection
- Any symptoms that worry you
Urgent Pregnancy Concerns
Seek urgent medical advice via NHS 111 or attend A&E if you have:
- Heavy bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- Sudden swelling, severe headaches, or vision problems
- Reduced baby movements (after 24 weeks)
Call 999 in an emergency.
Making a Decision About a Pregnancy
If you are unsure about continuing a pregnancy or are considering a termination, confidential help and support are available.
You do not need to see a GP first. Many services accept self-referral.
How to Access Support
- Self-refer to NHS-funded abortion services
- Speak to a GP or nurse if you would like to discuss your options
- Contact specialist providers such as BPAS or MSI UK directly
These services provide:
- Confidential advice
- Clear information about your options
- Counselling and emotional support
- Medical or surgical care where appropriate
Termination services are confidential. Your information will not be shared without your consent unless there are safeguarding concerns.
Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing
Pregnancy can affect emotional wellbeing. Please reach out if you are feeling:
- Very anxious
- Low in mood
- Overwhelmed
- Struggling to cope
Support is available through your midwife, GP, and local perinatal mental health services.
We Are Here to Help
Most pregnancy care is provided by midwives, but your GP practice is here to support your overall health and wellbeing.
Please contact us if you:
- Need medical advice
- Are unsure what to do next
- Would like support with any decision
