Hi Everyone. I have just found out that I am expecting our first baby. I am just over 5 weeks and really happy. Went to see my GP and nothing really happened, didn't take any tests of give my any information, just said if the test was positive that I was pregnat and that I needed to choose which hospital I would like to be treated in. Also I do not know whether to go through the NHS or to pay to go private(£2000.00). Can anyone give me any details on what the differences or benefits are of prviate care? Live in Northern Ireland and have to choose between the Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast and the Ulster Hopital, Dundonald. Really confused as don't want to make the wrong decision. Thanks x

Congrats to you.

I was at a bit of a loss when I had my 1st appointment. Our Dr was that laid back he nearly fell asleep! it was the midwife whom realy made us feel pregnant! she answered everything.
We had the choice of local Hospitals yet I already pay into private health care,always have done but after a bit of research NHS can actually be better when it comes to treating you and your Baby becasue they are governed...Also mine,which is BUPA, state they do not offer anything the NHS DO?? Apart from ceasarean(can't spell). So I'm not convinced it's worth spending all of that £ on private apart from maybe having SKY T.V!

Racheldee & Bean xx

I'm not 100% sure on the differences and I think a lot is probably down to the individual service provider as there can even be differences between NHS Hospitals.

We've only just started trying to conceive but it is something I have thought about because of some of the (bad)stories I have heard about the NHS.

We have decided that if we're lucky enough to get pregnant, we will go for an NHS hospital birth but with the support of an independent midwife, who will also provide the ante-natal and post-natal care (cost £2700)

You could always contact your local birthing centre (if there is one nearby) and see if they do open days (I know our local one runs open days each month)

Good luck

H xx