Working in partnership for the people of Herefordshire

Becoming a parent

People experience many different emotions when they discover they are expecting.  Becoming a parent can be the most wonderful experience but it can also be scary and unplanned.  To help you through this time, we have complied a list of questions and answers plus some general advice that may be of use to you.
How do I plan for what happens to me during pregnancy?
How do I plan for what will happen to me during pregnancy?
How do I plan what will happen to me during my pregnancy?  The pregnancy planner identifies key areas to think about during pregnancy, labour and the birth. External link to NHS website.
As an expectant dad, what about me?
Where do expectant Dads fit in?
What can I expect as an expectant dad?  Information and advice on what to expect as a dad-to-be.  External link to NHS web site
What support is there during the birth?
What support is there during the birth?
What support is there during the birth?  Information on maternity services based at Hereford hospital.  Exernal link to hospital web site
What if I am expecting twins or more?
What if I have twins or more!
What if I am expecting twins or more?  Information and advice on preparing for a twin or multiple birth.  External link to NHS website
What do children centres do?
What childcare is available for 0-4 years
What are Children's Centres and where are they?  Children's Centres provide a range of different services to help children who are under five years of age and their families and carers.  They also host antenatal and postnatal services.
Life Events: Registering a birth
Mother and very young baby
How do I register my child's birth? Information on dealing with the formalities required by law.
Life Events: How can I foster or adopt a child?
Family on sofa
Where can I  find information about fostering and ?
Life Events: Maternity and Paternity Rights
Man reading newspaper
What are Maternity and Paternity Rights?  Information on maternity and paternity rights in the workplace.  External link to government website.
Life Events: Contraception
Couple looking in mirror with heart on it

Advice on contraception at NHS Choices or tailored for young people on YouthZone. Further information is available here on local pharmacies offering emergency contraception (PDF document).

Life Events: Teenage Pregnancy
Pregnant lady typing
I am a teenager and think I might be pregnant.  Information on where you can get help and advice on the options available.  External link to government website.
 
Herefordshire Council, Brockington, Hereford. HR1 1SH | Tel: (01432) 260000 | info@herefordshire.gov.uk