Bevalling

When to call the midwife?

The period between 37 and 42 weeks of pregnancy is called the expected period. From week 37 on, the baby is fully developed and ready for birth. If you are past 37 weeks and it seems like labor is starting, call the midwife at 020-8203474 option 1 for the following points.

If there are signs of labor such as contractions, amniotic fluid, or vaginal bleeding before the 37th week, always call the emergency number.

  • Contractions
    • If it’s your first child, call if you have regular contractions for 1 hour, coming every 3 minutes and lasting 1 minute.
    • If you have given birth before, call if you have regular contractions for 1 hour, coming every 5 minutes and lasting 1 minute.
  • Amniotic Fluid Loss
    Labor can also start with the breaking of your water (10%). Always try to collect some amniotic fluid in a glass or on a sanitary pad.
    • If the water is colorless or light pink (clear), call us between 9:00 am and 8:00 pm. We will come during the day for checks and wait for up to 24 hours for contractions to start. If it is night, try to get some sleep.
    • If the water is yellow, green, or brown, the baby may have passed meconium (first stool) in the amniotic fluid. Call us immediately.
    • If the baby’s head was not engaged in the pelvis during check-ups, and your water breaks, call the midwife immediately and go home
  • Vaginal Bleeding
  • Reduced or No Baby Movements 
  • Anxiety or concerns