Maternity and neonatal 

Pregnancy, birth and newborn care in Essex

What are maternity and neonatal services?

Maternity services support you from early pregnancy through birth and after your baby is born.

Neonatal services provide specialist care for babies who need extra medical support, such as those born early or with health complications.

Teams work closely together to make sure you and your baby receive the right care at the right time, as close to home as possible.

Where can I give birth?

During pregnancy, your midwife will discuss your birth options with you. Your health and your baby’s health may affect which options are recommended.

If you and your baby are healthy, you may be able to choose from the following:

Home birth

Some people choose to give birth at home, where they feel most comfortable.

• Supported by qualified midwives
• Limited pain relief and monitoring options
• Transfer to hospital if needed

Midwife-led birth units (birth centres)

These offer a calm, homely environment and are usually based in or near hospitals.

• Led by midwives
• May include birthing pools
• Limited medical intervention
• Close to obstetric care if required

Hospital obstetric units (labour wards)

These units provide access to doctors and specialist teams.

• Recommended for higher-risk pregnancies
• Required for planned caesarean sections
• Access to specialist monitoring and treatment

Your maternity team will help you make an informed choice based on your circumstances.

Neonatal care

Neonatal units care for babies who:

• Are born early
• Have a low birthweight
• Need medical support after birth

Care is provided by specialist nurses, doctors, and therapists.

Parents and carers are encouraged to be involved in their baby’s care and supported throughout their stay.

Across the East of England, neonatal services work together to provide care as close to home as possible.

How to access maternity services

Once you know you are pregnant, you can:

• Refer yourself directly using an online form, or
• Contact your GP practice for support with your first appointment

Your first (booking) appointment should ideally take place before 10 weeks of pregnancy.

Early access helps ensure you receive timely screening, advice, and support.

Support during pregnancy and after birth

Your maternity team will provide:

• Regular check-ups
• Screening tests and ultrasound scans
• Advice on healthy pregnancy and emotional wellbeing
• Support with infant feeding
• Information on local classes and support groups
• Postnatal care after birth

If you have concerns at any stage, contact your maternity team.

Maternity services in Essex

Maternity care is available at five main hospitals in Essex.

When should I seek urgent help?

Contact your maternity team, NHS 111, or emergency services if you experience:

• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Severe abdominal pain
• Reduced baby movements
• Signs of infection (fever, severe pain)
• Sudden swelling, headaches, or vision problems
• Severe breathlessness

Maternity and neonatal voices partnership (MNVP)

A maternity and neonatal voices partnership (MNVP) is an independent group that brings together women, birthing people and families with midwives, doctors, commissioners and other NHS staff. Its role is to ensure that the voices and experiences of local people directly inform how maternity and neonatal services are planned, delivered and improved.

The MNVP works collaboratively with local NHS organisations to review services, identify areas for improvement and support the development of safe, inclusive and high-quality care. The partnership provides a constructive forum where feedback, both positive and critical, can help shape future services.

The MNVP welcomes feedback about your maternity or neonatal care experience. What you share helps influence real improvements for families across our communities.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Further information

You can find detailed national guidance on pregnancy, birth, and postnatal care on the NHS website.