If You Have a BMI Over 40
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of your height and weight and indicates if you are overweight. Pregnant women with a BMI over 35 are at higher risk of complications than those with a normal BMI (20-25).
Read information on pain management options on NHS.uk
Pain relief in labour
Your pain relief options. Labour can be painful – it can help to learn about all the ways you can relieve the pain. It's also helpful for whoever is going to be with you during your labour to know about the different options, as well as how they can support you.
Having an Epidural at Southmead
At Southmead, we understand the importance of giving women informed choices so have created this film to give you more information about having an epidural during the birth of your baby.
Contact North Bristol NHS Trust Maternity
Contact a midwife to book for antenatal care or leave a message on 0117 4146743
Antenatal Clinic (Appointments)
Telephone: 0117 4146924
Antenatal Clinic Midwives (Monday - Friday)
Telephone: 0117 4146929
Gestational Diabetic Team
Telephone: 0117 4141072
Percy Phillips Ward (Postnatal Ward)
Telephone: 0117 4146821 or 0117 4146822
Transitional Care Ward
Telephone: 01174145730
Maternity Triage Line
Telephone: 0117 414 6900
The Maternity Triage Line is available 24/7, 365 days a year for all contact from women and birthing people from 20 weeks pregnant through to 6 weeks postnatal, including if you are in labour. This replaces any numbers that were in use before 27 January 2026.
Southmead Hospital Switchboard: 0117 9505050