If you are trying to have a baby or are just thinking about it, it is not too early to start getting ready for pregnancy. A healthy, well balanced diet is strongly recommended before, during and after pregnancy.

Folate and folic acid are important for pregnancy since they can help prevent birth defects known as neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. Folate is a B group vitamin needed for healthy growth and development.

There are some foods to avoid or take care with when you’re pregnant as they might make you ill or harm your baby. 

Make sure you know the important facts about which foods you should avoid or take precautions with when you’re pregnant.

During your pregnancy you may have a number of annoying problems that are not dangerous but may need some attention. These problems include cramps, urinary frequency and incontinence, heartburn and indigestion, varicose veins, backache, constipation, haemorrhoids and thrush.

There are several conditions unique to pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia.

Whooping cough (pertussis) and influenza (flu) vaccines are very safe to be given during pregnancy and are recommended to protect both the mother and the baby during pregnancy and in the first few months after birth.

Giving birth will be different for every woman, but the main signs that you are starting labour will be strong, regular contractions, and a ‘show’.

Labour is painful, so it’s important to learn about all the ways that you can relieve the pain. It’s also helpful for whoever is going to be with you during your labour to know about the different options, as well as how they can support you.

A Caesarean is an operation where an incision (a cut) is made through the abdomen and uterus to deliver the baby. Some Caesareans are elective which are planned during pregnancy, and others are done in an emergency. 

When you first start breastfeeding, you may worry that your baby isn’t getting enough milk. It can take a little while before you feel confident that your baby is getting what they need

The perineum is the area of skin and muscle between your vagina and your anus. The perineum stretches and thins out over your baby’s head as he or she is born.