Below are some useful guides for when you are deciding to have baby. Decide if you will be private or public patient. There are huge differences between private and public pregnancy and childbirth care, with public being the inferior quality, poor cousin of private...
We are often asked about ‘what happens when’ with pregnancy care. With that question on mind I have put together the table below as a guide. 8 Weeks First visit with me for most patients I will give you a referral for routine pregnancy tests, NIPT Screening (if...
An anxious patient contacted me on Thursday evening. She had a pregnancy-related discomfort and decided to search on Google for the reason. She became concerned about what she read. She came to the conclusion from what she read that she had a particularly serious...
I am asked from time to time: “How can I prepare to have a baby?” So, I have put this checklist together which covers the points that are relevant before you start trying. Health fund. Make sure you have appropriate health fund cover that covers you for confinement in...
I am asked from time to time in advanced pregnancy: “Baby is almost due – what do I need to do?” Pack Your Bag. By about 36 weeks pregnant have your hospital bags packed. Make a written note of last minute items you will need to add. It is better if you should have...
Exercise and Activity Walking is an excellent idea. As well, antenatal exercise classes are available through the hospital and privately. You can inquire about the hospital classes when you book. See also in link section exercise in pregnancy. Working Normally I am...
Pregnancy is an exciting time when you have new life (your baby) developing and growing in your uterus. I am regularly asked “what can I do?”, “what can’t I do?”, “what can I eat?”, “what can’t I eat?” etc. A mother-to-be wants to look after her precious cargo in her...
When will my baby turn head down? As you progress through pregnancy the baby’s position becomes a more important consideration. At about 30 weeks about 25% of babies are not in a “cephalic” (head down) position. It is normal for the baby to turn head down even by...
Congratulations on your pregnancy! Having a baby is a very special time for you. It is one of the most important occasions in your life. One of the first questions a couple ask is how much will it cost to have their baby? When you choose to go private for your care...
Below is information on the most common breastfeeding challenges. Engorged breasts The signs of engorged breasts are: Larger, heavier and tender breasts. Breasts hard and painful and warm to touch. Swelling of breasts. Firm nipples and areola. What can be done about...
When are vacuum cups and forceps used when delivering a baby? For an operative vaginal delivery and sometimes with a Caesarean section delivery. Will I need an operative vaginal delivery? Hopefully not. Only about 12% of my patients need operative vaginal deliveries....
Contents Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) What is Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing? Who does the NIPT screening? What is the cost of the NIPT screening test? Who has NIPT screening? So I still need a 12-week ultrasound scan? Are there problems the NIPT...
What are these lumps in my armpits? Lumps in both armpits or axillae at the same time is usually due to axiliary extensions (or tails) of breast tissue. As such they are typically more of an issue in advanced pregnancy and especially when your milk comes in....
What does engagement of my baby’s head mean? Your baby’s head is engaged when the widest diameter of the head passes through the brim of your pelvis. A pregnant woman will often know this because of a very intense feeling of fullness in her pelvis. Some women have...
Myths and Tales about Pregnancy Over the centuries there has been passed down many pregnancy tales (often called “old wives tales”) and myths. When a pregnancy outcome is consistent with the pregnancy tale the tale will often tend to be spread further and with...
*Saturday morning appointments are not available for initial antenatal visit.
