The only study in Europe of women and their children, for which information was obtained on the mothers before conception.

The aim is to learn more about the dietary and lifestyle factors that influence the health of women and their children.

Between 1998 and 2002 the Survey team interviewed over 12,583 Southampton women aged 20 to 34 years. Those who became pregnant after interview were invited to take part in the pregnancy phase of the survey. Women received ultrasound scans at 11, 19 and 34 weeks of pregnancy, and their babies were measured soon after birth. There were 3156 babies born to women in the study between 1998 and 2007. The survey has also followed up these children with home visits at six months, one year, two and three years. Some also come into our clinic at Southampton General Hospital at four years, six years and eight years and some are seen at home at age six. We are currently planning the 10-11 year follow-up.

Sometimes our SWS families move house and we lose touch with them. If your child is part of the SWS Children's follow-up, is now 6 years old and you have not heard from one of our team, please get in touch with us on our freephone number: 0800 783 4503. We are very keen to follow up all our SWS children, to continue this important research.