So you’re having a baby (on Islay)!
*Your Essential Guide to Pregnancy and Parenthood on the Island*
Where Your Care Begins: Registering and Contacting Your GP
Once you find out you’re pregnant, your first step is to get in touch with your local GP practice. You can also contact your local midwife team directly on 01496 301 014, they will arrange your booking appointment when you are around 8 weeks pregnant. On Islay, there are several practices covering different areas of the island (including Bowmore, Port Ellen, and Port Charlotte), and your GP will initiate your maternity referral.
The Doctor’s Surgery and Midwife team will:
Confirm your pregnancy and calculate your due date.
-Carry out routine health checks (blood pressure, urine samples, etc.) as part of the routine booking process.
-Coordinate prescriptions or any relevant follow-up care.
Your GP remains an important contact throughout your pregnancy, especially if you develop health conditions like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or infections. There is also Obstetric care and support provided by the Royal Alexandria Hospital, where they can provide both video consultations or in person appointments in Campbeltown.
Essential Supplements: Pre, During & After Pregnancy
Good nutrition starts even before conception — and on Islay, access to high-quality supplements is close to home.
Before Pregnancy:
– Folic Acid (400mcg daily) – reduces the risk of neural tube defects.
– Vitamin D (10mcg daily) – supports bone, teeth and muscle development.
During Pregnancy:
– Pregnancy multivitamins with folic acid, vitamin D, iron, iodine and B12.
– Iron supplements if anaemic.
– Omega-3 (DHA) – for baby’s brain and eye development.
– Healthy Start vitamins are also available free of charge from your midwife.
Reminder: Avoid supplements with vitamin A (retinol) during pregnancy.
After Birth:
– Vitamin D (10mcg daily).
– Breastfeeding supplements.
– Multivitamins for energy and recovery.
– Vitamin D drops for infants (especially if breastfed). There are free Healthy Start vitamin drops available from your midwife.
Dental & Oral Health During Pregnancy and Early Childhood
Looking after your teeth and gums is especially important during pregnancy and after birth. Hormonal changes can make your gums more sensitive or prone to inflammation, so regular brushing, a healthy diet, and routine check-ups are key. Pregnant women are entitled to free NHS dental care during pregnancy and for 12 months after their baby is born — just show your Maternity Exemption Certificate (MATB1).
For little ones, oral care starts early. Through Scotland’s Childsmile programme, babies and young children can receive free dental check-ups, fluoride varnish applications, and toothbrush packs. Local dental clinics and health visitors can guide you through your child’s oral health journey — and we stock a variety of baby and toddler toothbrushes, teething gels, and gentle toothpaste here at the pharmacy too.
Antenatal Care on Islay
Your midwife becomes your main point of contact for antenatal care. Appointments are usually held at Bowmore Hospital, your local health centre, or in your home.
Services include:
– Routine antenatal checks.
– Blood tests.
– Nutrition and mental health support.
– Travel assistance for mainland appointments.
– Birth planning support. Both Aqua natal and other pre-birth classes are available.
– Place of birth planning. Any complex pregnancies will be advised to give birth on the mainland.
Your midwife will also help complete your Maternity Exemption Certificate (FW8), giving you free prescriptions and NHS dental care during pregnancy and for a year after birth.
– Once you are 21 weeks pregnant, your Midwife can issue form MATB1 to give to your employer regarding your maternity leave entitlement.
Travelling for Scans and Birth: What to Expect
As Islay doesn’t offer ultrasound scans or delivery services on-island, you’ll travel to the mainland for key appointments:
– Dating scan (~12 weeks) and anomaly scan (~20 weeks) in Glasgow, Campbeltown or Oban.
– Any early pregnancy care will need to take place off Island.
– Consultant appointments if high-risk
– NHS transport support for necessary travel.
– Your midwife will discuss the best place for you t- If you are giving birth off Island then they can help you plan this.
– You can also opt for a home birth with a midwife coming to you.
Tip: Keep travel receipts for NHS Highland expense claims.
How Islay Pharmacy Can Help
We aim to make your pregnancy journey smoother. Here’s what we can offer:
Health & Wellbeing Support:
– NHS-approved pregnancy multivitamins.
– Remedies for nausea, heartburn, insomnia.
– Minor ailment advice.
– Mental health support
Everyday Essentials:
– Stretch mark creams, bath salts, nipple cream.
– Breast pumps and maternity pads.
– Nursing pads, thermometers, nail clippers.
– Compression hosiery, baby skincare.
Need something specific? We can usually order within 24–48 hours.
And just between us — you’re not the only one figuring it all out. One of our own team members, Lynsay, is expecting too. So if you ever need to chat with someone who really understands the aches, cravings, or emotional rollercoaster — you might just find her behind the counter (probably Googling prams).
Postnatal Support on the Island
After your baby arrives (usually on the mainland), you’ll return home for local support.
You’ll receive:
– Community midwife visits.
– Health visitor support.
– Appointments for baby immunisations and milestones.
At Islay Pharmacy, we continue supporting with:
– Infant vitamins and teething relief.
– Colic remedies.
– Nappy rash creams, thermometers, sunscreen.
– Dosage advice for baby medicines.
Community support and parenting on Islay
Life with a baby on Islay is beautiful but can feel isolating. Connect with others through:
– Islay Family Centre
– Local Facebook parenting groups.
– Midwife and health visitor referrals.
– Pharmacy chats — we’re always here.
In Case of Emergency
If you experience unusual symptoms like bleeding, reduced movements, severe pain, or signs of labour. Contact your midwife during the day on 01496 301014. If it is out of hours then contact A & E on 999. Air ambulance or ferry arrangements are in place if emergency transfer is needed. Your midwife or GP can also provide a direct contact number for out-of-hours maternity advice.
– If you are experiencing reduced movements it is very important to get checked out immediately.
Packing & Travel Tips for the Mainland
When travelling for scans or birth, pack a small maternity bag with essentials: your maternity notes, comfortable clothes, snacks, chargers, toiletries, and baby items. If you’re booked to give birth off-island, prepare this bag a few weeks in advance — weather delays can and do happen!
Prescription Delivery Reminder
Too tired to leave the house? We offer local prescription delivery – just ask the team and we’ll get your items to you wherever you are on the island.
Mental Health & Wellbeing
Pregnancy can be an emotional rollercoaster — and it’s OK not to feel OK. If you’re struggling with anxiety, low mood, or just feeling overwhelmed, speak to your GP, midwife, or come in for a quiet chat with our team. You’re never alone, and support is always available.
For Partners & Families
Whether you’re the other parent, a grandparent-to-be, or just trying to help — your support matters. Ask how you can help, attend appointments if possible, and don’t hesitate to come into the pharmacy with questions of your own.
Pharmacy First for Mum & Baby
Did you know that many common conditions for both mum and baby can be treated right here at the pharmacy under the NHS Pharmacy First Scotland scheme?
From skin rashes, hay fever, and constipation to minor infections or concerns with baby’s eyes, ears or tummy, we can offer advice, treatment or referral — often without needing a GP appointment.
You don’t need to register or book — just come in and speak to Lisa the pharmacist. Whether it’s mastitis, thrush, or colic, we’re here to help, listen, and support you both.
Think of us as your first port of call for everyday health concerns during pregnancy, postnatal recovery, and those early baby days.
Your Journey, Your Community
From first kicks to first steps, having a baby on Islay is a journey shaped by nature and nurture. You’ll feel the difference that local care and community spirit can make.
Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding to your growing family, you’re not doing this alone.
Pop in any time — we’re with you every step of the way (except for baby sitting duties).
