What Should You Ask an Obstetrician in Norwest Before Choosing Pregnancy Care?

2. Can an obstetrician manage a high-risk pregnancy?

Yes. Obstetricians provide specialist care for pregnancies that require additional monitoring or medical management. Depending on the circumstances, they may also coordinate care with maternal and fetal medicine specialists or other healthcare professionals.

3. Can I discuss my preferred birth plan?

Yes. You can discuss your preferences with your obstetrician during pregnancy. Your obstetrician can explain the options available to you and discuss circumstances in which the recommended approach may need to change for medical reasons.

4. Will I have the same obstetrician throughout pregnancy?

Private obstetric care commonly provides ongoing care with your chosen obstetrician, although arrangements vary between practices. Ask who will provide care if your obstetrician is unavailable and whether another obstetrician provides after-hours or birth cover.

5. What costs should I ask about?

Ask about consultation fees, antenatal care costs, hospital fees, Medicare rebates, private health insurance coverage and fees charged by other professionals involved in maternity care, such as anaesthetists and paediatricians.

6. Can an obstetrician refer me to another specialist?

Yes. If your pregnancy requires additional expertise or monitoring, your obstetrician can coordinate a referral to an appropriate specialist. This may be particularly relevant if a medical condition develops or your pregnancy requires more specialised care.

7. What should I bring to my first obstetric appointment?

If available, bring relevant medical records, previous pregnancy information, referral documentation, medication details and results from recent tests or scans. You can also prepare a list of questions about your pregnancy, birth preferences, hospital arrangements and costs.