Contacting hospital before arrival for labour UK

Hi guys, I was wondering how I’d go about calling the maternity unit at the hospital to let them know I’m in labour in preparation of a water birth. I was told by my midwife to contact them once I start labour but unsure whether I’d call 999 or triage as it wasn’t clear in the conversation.

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I'm currently sat in the DAU at my local hospital for high BP (been here since 4pm) and heard their phone call about a lady coming in for a water birth, her contractions 3mins apart.

So possibly triage? They'd at least be able to advise you. Unless you cannot get yourself in without an ambulance then I'd say 999

Is there not a specific number in your file? I’ve been given a page with all the relevant numbers.

Definitely triage, let them know you're in labour and you planned a water birth and they will advise from there 😊 999 is if you cannot get yourself there for whatever reason. My first was a planned water birth and when I realised it was definitely contractions I was having I just rang triage and they advised me on what to do next 😊

It depends where you plan on giving birth as in labour suite or midwifery unit if your hospital has separate departments phone the department number. If a smaller hospital you should have a midwife number to phone. Sometimes they have day numbers and on call overnight numbers. Get in touch with your midwife if you’re unsure as different areas have different ways of doing things. Only need 999 if you need an ambulance to get there or think your to late to get to a hospital.

You phone triage!!

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