Frequently Asked Questions

NewMums.com is a UK-based support site offering free tools and gentle guidance for pregnancy, birth, and the early months with your baby.

NewMums.com is for pregnant women, new mums, and those supporting them. It is suitable whether this is your first baby or not.

Yes. All content and tools are designed around UK guidance, NHS care pathways, and local support services.

Yes. All tools on NewMums.com are completely free.

No. You can use all tools without registering or providing personal details.

No. Personal information entered into tools is not stored or shared. Everything stays on your device.

Yes. NewMums.com is mobile-friendly and designed to work well on phones and tablets. Some tools also work offline once opened.

No. The site provides general information and supportive tools, not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical concerns.

If you feel worried, unwell, or something does not feel right, you should contact your midwife, GP, health visitor, or NHS services for advice. Trust your instincts—you know your baby best.

Baby blues are very common and usually settle within two weeks. Postnatal depression is more serious, lasts longer, and may require professional support. See our Mental Health section for more details.

Many new mums struggle emotionally, especially in the early weeks. Feeling overwhelmed does not mean you are failing. Support is available, and asking for help is important. Contact your Health Visitor or GP—they want to help you.

No. NewMums.com supports and complements professional care but does not replace midwives, GPs, health visitors, or mental health services.

It is easy to feel like you need to buy everything, but newborns actually need very little. We have created a Preparing for a Newborn Guide which covers the absolute essentials for your hospital bag, sleeping, and clothing, plus tips on what to borrow or buy second-hand.

• England, Wales & Northern Ireland: Within 42 days of birth.
• Scotland: Within 21 days of birth.

You typically need to make an appointment at the local register office in the area where your baby was born. You should take identification (like a passport) and your discharge papers from the hospital.

You should claim Child Benefit as soon as you have registered the birth. It can be claimed online (using the HMRC app or website) or by post using form CH2.

The first round of NHS vaccinations is offered when your baby is 8 weeks old. This includes:

• 6-in-1 vaccine (diphtheria, hepatitis B, Hib, polio, tetanus, whooping cough)
• Rotavirus vaccine (oral drops)
• MenB vaccine

You will usually receive an invitation from your GP surgery to book this appointment.

Your GP surgery will invite you, and schedules can vary slightly — always follow your NHS appointment plan.

You need a Maternity Exemption Certificate. Ask your midwife or GP to complete form FW8 for you. The certificate entitles you to free NHS prescriptions and dental care until 12 months after your baby's due date or actual date of birth.