Having a baby

If you are expecting a baby you will have many new issues to consider. Here are a few guidelines and links to relevant websites to help steer you through some of the choices open to you during your pregnancy and childbirth.

Our factsheet, Information for new families, may be helpful to you as you begin this journey. For more helpful information, visit the BBC website – Pregnancy.

• Information for new families

Antenatal healthcare

The best way to discover the options open to you in your area is to discuss them with your GP. A GP will put you in touch with your local midwife who may be based at the surgery, a local healthcare clinic or hospital.

• NHS Choices – antenatal health and care
• Information on your local NHS services

Maternity leave and pay

The laws around maternity leave and pay were changed in October 2008, so make sure you are working with the latest facts. Visit the websites below for the most up-to-date information.

• GOV.UK – Pregnant employees' rights
• GOV.UK – Parental leave
• Department for Work and Pensions – guide to maternity benefits

Childbirth options

It is important to remember that the choice of where to have your baby is yours. Options include hospitals, birth centres or home. Take time during your pregnancy to decide which would suit you best.

• Birthchoice UK – advice and statistics
• National Childbirth Trust – information about your choices
• BBC – advice about birth options
• NHS Choices – where to have your baby

Registering a birth

You must register a baby within 42 days of the birth. Usually the mother will register the birth, although the father is also eligible providing he was married to the mother at the time of the birth. You do not need to supply any documents, although the baby's discharge notes may be useful.

• Registering a birth in East Sussex
• GOV.UK – Register a birth

Feeding

From choosing whether or not to breast feed to when to introduce solids, deciding what to feed your child can be daunting. The links below offer some helpful advice.

• NHS advice on breastfeeding
• La Leche League – support for breastfeeding mothers
• BabyCentre – starting solids

Health and immunisation

A baby becoming ill can be a parent's worst nightmare so check the links below for advice on immunisation and some helpful links to healthcare professionals.

• NHS Direct – health advice
• Department of Health – immunisation advice
• NHS Choices – information about reducing the risk of cot death

Support groups

Having a baby can be a very difficult time and sometimes new parents may find it hard to cope. There are a range of support services on hand to help with any problems, so don't suffer alone.

• Local Children's Centres
• Local parent and baby groups
• BBC – list of support groups
• National Childbirth Trust – help and advice on parenting

Benefits and tax credits

There are a range of benefits and tax credits for parents. Here are some websites that will guide you through what you are entitled to and how to claim.

• NHS Choices – Help with health costs
• GOV.UK – child benefit
• Child Support Agency – discover more about maintenance

Childcare

If you decide to go back to work after having your baby you will need childcare. From childminders to nurseries there is a wide range available. Here is some information to help you choose which is best for you and how to find it in your area.

• Pre-school childcare and early years – help for parents and carers
• Daycare Trust – information on childcare