Service Information

Specialist clinics and services

Specialist pregnancy services at ESNEFT

Pregnancy diabetes clinics

If you have pre-existing diabetes or develop pregnancy-related diabetes (gestational diabetes), you will have appointments in our specialist clinics at Colchester and Ipswich hospitals.  These appointments will be with a consultant obstetrician, a diabetes consultant, a diabetes nurse specialist and a diabetes specialist midwife.

It is recommended that you start a high dose folic acid supplement prior to becoming pregnant, and during your pregnancy. You can see your GP who can prescribe this for you and give you further advice on plans for your pregnancy.

Pregnancy and diabetes at Colchester Hospital

We advise that if you are diabetic and are planning a pregnancy or are newly pregnant, you should refer yourself to the North East Essex Diabetes Service (NEEDS).  Call them on 0345 241 3313 or email the NEEDS referral booking service

Pregnancy and diabetes at Ipswich Hospital

We advise that if you are a diabetic and are planning a pregnancy, you should speak to your GP or contact the specialist nurses at the Diabetes Centre at Ipswich Hospital.

Diabetes Centre at Ipswich Hospital – Diabetes and pregnancy

Pre-existing medical conditions

A consultant will liaise with your specialist team to make an individual plan of care for you.  This may include extra clinic appointments at the hospital.

Mental health support

We have a perinatal mental health team which includes a psychiatrist, a mental health nurse, an obstetrics consultant and a midwife.  This team will work with you throughout your pregnancy.

Birth choices clinic

This clinic is led by a specialist midwife to help you to explore the options for your birth.

If you have had a previous traumatic experience, previous Caesarean section or if you have other concerns you may find it useful to spend time discussing the choices available to you.

Please speak to your midwife or call the Antenatal Clinic to make an appointment.

Specialist pregnancy services at Colchester Hospital

These services are for patients of Colchester, Clacton and Harwich hospitals.

The Daisy Team

The Daisy Team can support you throughout your pregnancy and after you have given birth.  They help:

• people with mental health problems
• young parents
• people who have experienced domestic violence
• people with addictions

Please talk to your midwife about this support.

Physiotherapy

If you are booked at Colchester, Clacton or Harwich hospitals, please speak to your midwife about the physiotherapy services available in this area.

Debrief clinic

This is a time to reflect on your previous birth experiences.  We will answer any questions you have about previous births at Colchester, Clacton or Harwich hospitals.