Expectant mothers in Worcestershire can now refer themselves directly to a midwife.

A new online self-referral form has been launched by Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, allowing those who are pregnant to kick-start their antenatal care as soon as they find out they are expecting.

Justine Jeffrey, director of midwifery at the trust, said: "If you are having a baby, you should start your antenatal care as soon as possible once you know you're pregnant to make sure that you are informed about the recommended antenatal care.

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"The new self-referral form means there is no need to contact a GP to or call a maternity hub to access maternity care anymore.

"Instead, the form can be filled in online, which is quick, easy and available 24 hours a day.

"This gives us all the information we need to start pregnancy care planning in one place, at the push of a button."

Every year, around 5,000 babies are born at Worcestershire Royal Hospital, meaning more than 400 people begin their pregnancy care every month.

Ms Jeffrey added: "The earlier someone tells us that they are pregnant, the earlier we can engage with them on their pregnancy journey."

The self-referral form is available at www.worcsacute.nhs.uk/pregnant.