Continuing Pregnancy

Taking in the news of a positive pregnancy test brings with it a range of emotions, concerns and questions. Every woman with a continuing pregnancy finds she and her partner need to make decisions regarding the care for the rest of the pregnancy and where they wish to deliver the baby.  There are always other social issues to think about regarding the home environment, relationship issues, employment and financial plans.

For the duration of a pregnancy the pregnant woman will need to have several check up appointments and various blood tests, ultrasounds and other tests depending on the age and health issues of the individual.

Most women in Australia give birth in hospital, although in some areas GPs and private midwives will assist with homebirths if this is appropriate. To book at a hospital for delivery also involves choices regarding who the woman will have most contact with during the antenatal visits and who will be responsible during a delivery. Choices include midwife led care, birthing units, obstetrician led care, shared care between a nominated hospital and a GP, private and public hospitals.

Initial tests at confirmation of a continuing pregnancy include checking immunity to certain blood borne infections, blood group, full blood screen and checking blood pressure, urine and estimating the age of the pregnancy (gestational age).

Our doctors at our Gynaecare Sydney north shore womens health clinic are all able to listen to your concerns; request and perform all the initial tests and examination; and help guide you for referral to a hospital, obstetrician or midwife unit depending on your needs. We are all able to provide support with shared antenatal care with antenatal clinics, midwives and obstetricians. There are also certain guidelines regarding lifestyle issues that are recommended during pregnancy which we can explain fully as part of the counselling care.