We strongly recommend that you continue your Rheumatology medication as normal, unless advised otherwise. Not taking your medication would mean you are at risk of having a flare-up, which puts you at a higher risk group than those on medication.  You should keep lateral flow tests at home.  You can use any lateral flow tests supplied by the Government. Please go to https://www.gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flow-tests  or call 119 to order a pack of lateral flow tests. Only use them if you develop symptoms. If you run out, you can order more. Please note that tests bought from a shop (including pharmacies) cannot be registered…

If you have a flare-up of your Rheumatology symptoms and need advice, follow the steps below and we will help you: 1.     Contact the Rheumatology department: 01432 36 4020 orrheumatology.patient@nhs.net 2.     Leave a voicemail message and include following details: Your full name and date of birth Your hospital number and/or NHS number (if known) Explain that you are having a flare-up and need some clinical advice Please make sure you say you are on PIFU pathway 3.     The team will review your concerns and decide if you need a telephone or face-to-face appointment. 4.     If the team thinks you need…

Many parents cherish the time they were able to spend with their baby, and keepsakes can play a vital role in the grieving process following baby loss as most parents find making memories and having such reminders afterwards a great comfort. Other parents may feel that making memories and seeing their baby isn’t the right decision for them. There are lots of different ways we can support you in remembering your baby, some of these include: A memory box provided by a Baby Loss Charity Hand and foot prints Photography by the midwives Professional photography by www.remembermybaby.org.uk Dressing or bathing…

Pulse oximetry Once baby is born they will be offered pulse oximetry to screen for possible heart problems. This is a quick test where their oxygen levels in their blood is measured on their right hand and any foot.  If the results are not normal then they will be referred to the paediatrician for further investigations. Hearing screening Hearing screening will also be offered. If you aren’t having an early discharge after birth then this will usually happen on the maternity ward, otherwise you will be sent a letter with an appointment within four weeks.  Newborn and Infant Examination (NIPE)…

As much as mother’s can be affected by the life changing event of pregnancy, birth and a baby, parenthood for the partner can also bring a variety of feelings which can include depression and/or anxiety. This is sometimes referred to as paternal depression. Having a baby can change the dynamic of your relationship and increase financial pressure. A lack of sleep and perhaps the need to look after more children can all contribute to poor mental health.  Some factors can make it more likely for partners to suffer with their mental health are: A lack of social networks Other life…

Your pelvic floor is a combination of muscles in your pelvis which act as a hammock, supporting your bladder, bowel and uterus. Due to the extra pressure on your pelvic floor during pregnancy and birth your pelvic floor muscles will likely be weakened. You might experience less sensation when you need to empty your bladder which can lead to incontinence. Your pelvic floor muscles should steadily improve, but you can aid your recovery with pelvic floor exercises. If you are having trouble controlling your bladder after having your baby then you may need to see a physiotherapist, speak to your…

Clostridium difficile infection Patient information Clostridium difficile is a type of bacteria (bug) which lives in the large intestine (part of the gut).

This page contains links to information leaflets to explain our service and help with the development of your baby and child's speech and language.   Leaflets include advice on talking to your baby during pregnancy, from 0 to 6 months, 6 to 12 months, 1 to 2 years. 2 to 3 years. use of television, dummies, and what to do if you are having difficulty understanding your child's speech. Talking to your baby bump during pregnancyTalking with your baby from 0 to 6 monthsTalking with your baby from 6 to 12 monthsTalking with your baby from 1 to 2 yearsTelevision…

We are passionate about women having a positive experience and individualised care. Feedback from families is essential for us to continue improving our service. You will find that on each ward that you visit there are QR codes, which lead to surveys about the care you’ve received. We really appreciate any feedback you give us, be it positive or something we need to work on. This section will explain how you can give feedback, read some birth stories from people who have received care from us and learn more about the Maternity Voices Partnership. We are proud to report that…

Continuation of Maternity Services during COVID-19 For the latest advice for pregnant women and their families see link below and information on this page. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) have guidance which is being regularly updated    Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic information for pregnant women - 19/8/20  Research produced during the COVID-19 outbreak has shown that pregnant women from Black, Asian and minority backgrounds (which we often refer to in the NHS as BAME backgrounds) have an increased chance of having severe symptoms of COVID-19 that require hospitalisation (4x the chance). Research is ongoing to explain the reasons for…