Information for New and Expectant Mothers in Greenwich

Welcome to your pregnancy journey. If you live in the Greenwich area, this page provides essential guidance on accessing maternity care, taking pregnancy vitamins, healthy living in early pregnancy, and support if you experience problems such as pain or bleeding.

Self-Referral to Maternity Services

If you suspect or know you are pregnant, the first step is to self-refer to maternity services to begin your antenatal care. You do not need to wait for a GP appointment.

To register with the maternity team at Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) Woolwich, part of Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust, complete the online self-referral form:

• Maternity Services Self-Referral Form – Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust

Once registered, you will be contacted by a midwife to schedule your booking appointment (usually around 8–10 weeks), and then your first scan at 12 weeks. Regular antenatal checks will be arranged with midwives and hospital teams throughout your pregnancy.

If you require help completing the form or have difficulty accessing it, contact the maternity helpline:

020 8836 4491 (Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm)

Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit (EPAU)

 – for Pain, Bleeding or Urgent Concerns <16 Weeks

If you are less than 16 weeks pregnant and experience vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, severe nausea, or signs of miscarriage, you can self-refer to the Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit (EPAU) at QEH Woolwich.

This is a nurse-led specialist service that provides telephone triage and, where appropriate, urgent ultrasound scanning.

• EPAU – Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woolwich

EPAU Contact Details

• 020 8836 4897 (Reception)
• 020 8836 6000 (Switchboard)
• lg.qehepau@nhs.net

If you are bleeding heavily, in severe pain, feeling faint, or collapsing, attend A&E immediately.

Maternity Vitamins – Folic Acid & Vitamin D

All pregnant women are advised to take:

• Folic Acid 400 micrograms (μg) daily from pre-conception until 12 weeks of pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects
• Vitamin D 10 micrograms (400 IU) daily throughout pregnancy to support bone health and immunity

These are available in most standard pregnancy multivitamins.

If you know you have a body mass index (BMI) above 30, or think you may be overweight, please contact your GP practice. You may need a higher dose of folic acid (5mg daily) than is included in standard pregnancy supplements. This can be prescribed.

Free vitamins through the Healthy Start scheme

You may be eligible for free pregnancy vitamins through the NHS Healthy Start programme if you are on a low income or receive certain benefits.

• Live Well Greenwich – Healthy Start

Your GP or midwife can also advise on how to access free vitamins locally.

Healthy Living in Early Pregnancy

Looking after your physical and mental health early in pregnancy benefits both you and your baby.

• Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and dairy. Avoid alcohol, raw/undercooked meat and eggs, unpasteurised dairy, liver, and certain high-mercury fish
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive caffeine (limit to 200 mg per day)
• Exercise: Safe activities such as walking, swimming and antenatal yoga can improve mood, sleep and circulation
• Mental wellbeing: Hormonal changes, fatigue, and anxiety are common. Prioritise rest, talk to supportive people, and seek help if you’re struggling emotionally

Managing Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy

Nausea and vomiting are common in the first trimester.

Tips to manage symptoms:

• Eat small, frequent meals
• Try plain snacks like crackers or toast on waking
• Avoid strong smells and greasy foods
• Sip fluids slowly—try fizzy drinks or ginger tea

If nausea is severe or persistent, speak to your GP or midwife. You may be offered safe anti-sickness medication, such as cyclizine or prochlorperazine.

Contacting the Day Assessment Unit (FAU)

If you are more than 16 weeks pregnant and experience reduced baby movements, leaking fluid, itching, or other pregnancy concerns, contact the Day Assessment Unit (FAU) at QEH Woolwich.

FAU Contact Details

• 020 8836 4873
• 020 8836 5359

Summary of Key Contacts – Queen Elizabeth Hospital (Woolwich)

Useful Links

Lewisham & Greenwich NHS Trust Maternity Services

Queen Elizabeth Hospital Early Pregnancy Unit (EPAU)

Live Well Greenwich – Healthy Start & Free Vitamins

If you are newly pregnant, self-refer early, begin taking the right vitamins, and reach out for support if you experience any concerns. The local NHS services are here to support you throughout your pregnancy.