Pregnancy & Birth

Usually your first appointment falls between 7-10 weeks. Because we take a proactive approach, we actively book and prepare all your investigations and, if you like, we can even see you at any time. If you discover you’re pregnant earlier than expected, do not hesitate to call us at any time to book an appointment to discuss any questions or concerns.

Yes, it is essential you obtain a referral from your GP before attending your first appointment. This referral lasts for the entire pregnancy.

Once you’ve organised your referral and booked your appointment, there is very little you need to do prior to coming in. At the time of booking, our practice manager, Tania, will send some brief forms for you to complete. Please bring to your appointment:

• The referral from your GP and the completed documentation sent to you

• A list of any medications you are taking and any drug allergies you may have

• Any ultrasounds or test results from your referring doctor (often this will include a set of antenatal bloods and a dating ultrasound)

• Operation reports from any recent surgeries.

Throughout your pregnancy, you will be in close contact with our practice manager, Tania, and our friendly team of midwives.

On average, we see most patients between 10-12 times. That being said, it's important to us that you feel comfortable and supported throughout your pregnancy (and beyond), as such, you can call when you feel you need to and discuss booking additional appointments when needed.

You’re free to contact us at any time for any concerns that might arise. Normal practice hours are Monday-Thursday, 8:00-5:00pm and Friday 8:00-12:00pm and we will provide you with after-hours support numbers.

Have you heard the saying that it takes a village to raise a child? Well we believe your pregnancy shouldn't be any different. We are here to support you throughout your entire pregnancy and beyond, which is why it's so important to us that you are able to book in or call as often as you’d like.

We like to consider ourselves your Pregnancy Personal Assistants. Life can be stressful enough so we aim to take the worry away and help organise everything for you so you can step back to focus on you and your baby.

You’re welcome to bring a support person to as many appointments as you’d like. It’s common for people to bring along a partner to key dates. We recommend your partner or support person attends the initial consult, major scans and the appointments closest to your due date.

Yes. We have had extensive experience with high risk pregnancy types. We invite you to call or book an appointment with us to discuss your needs further.

We will only ever offer pain relief options that are safe for both you and your baby. Both medicated and non-medicated pain relief is available and we only proceed once each option is explained in detail and you’re fully comfortable. The main options available are:

Types of medicated pain relief:

• Nitrous oxide gas (laughing gas)
  Laughing gas allows you to still feel in control and can be altered if you start feeling too lightheaded or nauseated

• Pethidine or morphine injection
  Pethidine and morphine are strong painkillers which can give significant pain relief by simulating the effect of endorphins in the body.

• Epidural
  Epidurals are an injection of anesthetic into the lower back which causes a loss of sensation in the area. During long labours they can be especially helpful in helping you sleep and regain strength.

Types of non-medicated pain relief:

• Relaxation techniques guided by your midwife or partner

• Movement - change positions or go for walks to help with contraction pain

• Heat or ice packs can help alleviate pain

• Massage

• Complementary therapies like acupuncture, acupressure or aromatherapy.

Alternatively, there are also non-medicated pain relief options that can be administered like a TENS machine (sends small electrical pulses into the body to release endorphins) which help with back pain without side effects.

While we would love to say a perfect delivery exists, the reality is that can't always be the case. No matter how prepared you try to be, there is always the possibility of complications during childbirth. But you can rest assured knowing that you have a knowledgable, highly-trained team who have your baby's best interests at heart.

About 6 weeks after your pregnancy, we will book you in for a postnatal appointment to check in and offer any further help or support. At this point we will identify if you need any further gynaecological treatment or alternative assistance.