Pregnancy can be an exciting time for you and your family. The first step is to see your doctor, who will confirm the pregnancy with a urine or blood test. They will help you to decide where you want to have your baby, and will refer you to the hospital or service you choose to take care of your antenatal care (the care you receive before the baby is born). You can also choose to have shared maternity care, where you sometimes see your GP as well as seeing the midwives or doctors at the hospital or birth centre. It is very important that you take good care of your health at this time, and visits will be set up to check on you and your baby’s health throughout the pregnancy. It is vital that you attend these appointments so you have the information, support and services to help you know what to expect from the birth and after the baby is born. If you or a family member is experiencing distress or hardship due to pregnancy, support is available through Pregnancy Counselling and Support Tasmania. It is a free service and is available by phoning 6 2 2 4 2 2 9 0.