We are committed to supporting women from all cultures, languages and backgrounds during their pregnancy and birth journey. If you do not speak English, please know we are here to help and ensure you feel confident and well informed.

Key Information for non-English speaking women

1. Translation and Interpretation Services

• We offer free interpreters to help you during appointments, scans, and hospital visits.
• If you need an interpreter, please let us know when booking your appointment so we can arrange this for you.
• Written information about pregnancy, birth and postnatal care is available in many languages. Ask your midwife for these resources.

2. Antenatal Care

• Regular check-ups during pregnancy are important to monitor your health and your baby’s growth.
• You will meet with a midwife or doctor who will guide you through your pregnancy.
• Share any concerns or questions, even if you’re using an interpreter - it’s important to feel confident and informed.

3. Birth Planning

• You can discuss your birth preferences with your midwife. This may include where you want to give birth, pain relief options, or cultural practices you wish to follow.
• Let us know if there are cultural or religious practices we can support during labour and delivery.

4. During Labour and Birth

• Bring a trusted companion who can provide support, even if they don’t speak English.
• Midwives and doctors will use interpreters to communicate with you during labour.
• Your comfort, safety, and cultural preferences are our priority.

5. After the Birth

• Our team will support you with breastfeeding, bottle feeding, and caring for your baby.
• If you have any questions about your baby’s health or your recovery, don’t hesitate to ask.

If you need more information please let you midwife know or contact our Refugee and Asylum Seeker Midwife at Emma.Kay@uhcw.nhs.uk

If you have any difficulties understanding our services, ask a friend or family member to help you call or email for support.

Further resources:

MAMTA - FWT: Supporting ethnic minority women in pregnancy and after baby is born, women only support and education.

Coventry Language Integration Project – Carriers of Hope: Support with education, language and applying for jobs

Family hubs – Coventry City Council: Family support throughout the city

Multilingual Maternity Resources

 

The Real Birth Company

The Real Birth company dedicated to empowering pregnant women and people by providing comprehensive education on labour, birth options, rights, and choices.

Their mission is to alleviate fear and anxiety surrounding childbirth by offering in-depth understanding and support, focusing on emotional and physical wellbeing for families.

The real birth company provide a digital package of antenatal education, accessible in a range of different languages which is useful for our families who’s first language isn’t English.

The programme is available on all smart devices, free of charge. You can register by clicking here.

You can email our Antenatal Education and Parent Support Midwife, Katie Hickman at NewBeginningsAntenatal@uhcw.nhs.uk

---

Back