Having a Baby
Starting a Family
The Family Planning Association provide support and advice on issues of pregnancy, contraception and sexual health.
NHS Direct Online offers guidance on fertility and maintaining good health during pregnancy.
The National Childbirth Trust offers support in pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood.
BBC Online offers detailed advice on preparing for pregnancy, pregnancy and postnatal issues, with an emphasis on maternal health.
Babies.co.uk is one of the UK's largest baby websites, with information, advice and ideas for parents with children under 1.
Pregnancy Complications
If you have any worries or health problems during your pregnancy, you should be able to speak to your GP or midwife. However, if you think the problem maybe more serious, contact them or your local hospital immediately. A list of local hospitals can be found on the Birmingham Health Authority website.
NHS Direct Online (see link above) offers general pregnancy information and details of publications about pregnancy complications including ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage and stillbirth.
The Miscarriage Association provides support and advice services for those affected by the loss of a child during pregnancy.
The Association for Post-Natal Illness is the leading organisation in its field, offering support to mothers suffering from post-natal illness.
Registering a Birth
Every birth in England and Wales must be registered in the district in which it took place within 42 days of the birth date. Full details of how to register your baby's birth can be found on the Register Office pages of birmingham.gov.uk.
Entitlements
The Department for Work and Pensions site provides useful information regarding available benefits.
The DTI's website offers information on leave entitlements for working parents.
Childcare
Thie Family Information Service is based at the Central Library in Birmingham offers help and advice on finding full and part-time childcare.
Other Useful Contacts
Advice for new fathers
British Agencies for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF)Sudden Infant Death Support Group