By Elizabeth Obstetricians can provide specialist medical care during pregnancy, and after birth. You can choose to have a private doctor who you will see all through your pregnancy. If you are planning on giving birth in either a public or private hospital, you will only see an obstetrician in case of a medical emergency or complication.
What Is An Obstetrician, And How Do They Work?
An obstetrician has specialized qualifications in the delivery and care of babies during pregnancy and following birth (postnatal). An obstetrician can manage complex and high-risk pregnancies. Many have also been trained in women’s reproductive health (gynecology).
How Do You Choose An Obstetrician?
If you choose to have your baby in an institution or birth center for public patients, you won’t normally be able to choose your physician.
Some rural and remote locations may not have a local doctor of obstetrics. There are no complications that general doctors can deliver babies. If complications arise, you may need a transfer to a hospital where an obstetrician is available.
If you have maternity insurance, you can choose your physician and give birth at a private hospital. Some obstetricians are also available to care for private patients at a local hospital. It is a good idea that you check to see if your preferred doctor practices at your preferred hospital.
Your First Appointment
Your First Antenatal Visit will include a physical examination and a discussion with your doctor about any concerns you may have.
They will likely offer the first of many routine tests performed during pregnancy. Medicare might cover some of these costs. It’s good to ask about all of the expected costs associated with your care.
You must ask your obstetrician about their plans for handling your antenatal visits and delivery. If they don’t follow your preferred approach, you have the option to choose another obstetrician.
Your obstetrician could also help you to make lifestyle changes for your baby. You and your baby will be healthier if you stop smoking, or drinking alcohol.
Your Role As An Obstetrician Is Crucial During Pregnancy
If you are getting your antenatal services at a public hospital you will only need to see an Obstetrician as needed. You can also see obstetricians. Women with high-risk pregnancies may see the obstetrician a lot more frequently.
Private obstetricians can do antenatal examinations if you have selected one. The obstetrician will typically:
- You can check the position and growth of your baby.
- Conduct or refer to routine checks
- Get ready for labor.
- Some ultrasounds can be performed in private rooms by obstetricians.
Private obstetricians can also offer a shared care option, where you split your visits between your doctor (GP), or midwife, as well as your obstetrician. This option is often less costly.
Your Obstetrician’s Role In Labor And Birth
If your uncomplicated birth was at a public facility as a patient, an obstetrician will not be required. An obstetrician, however, will be available to handle any complications and emergencies.
Although your obstetrician will visit you in private hospitals, the majority of your care will come from midwives. Your obstetrician is there to manage any complications or make certain interventions.
After The Baby’s Birth
If you are referred to a private obstetrician they will usually perform a check before you leave the hospital.
They’ll likely request that you book an appointment with them to have a check-up 6 weeks after the birth. This appointment will allow you to discuss contraception along with future Pregnancies.
How Much Does An Abortion Cost?
Medicare will cover your visit to an obstetrician if you’re a public patient. If you are not covered under Medicare or an arrangement for your care, you will be responsible to cover the entire cost.
If you visit a private obstetrician you will be required to pay the difference (or the ‘gap) between any Medicare rebates and the obstetrician’s fee, hospital costs, and other expenses. If you have private health insurance, you might be eligible for some of these costs.
An obstetrician generally charges a pregnancy management fee’ for every 28 weeks of gestation. This is usually the largest fee component. These fees could include antenatal consultations, labor, and postnatal care. Private hospital expenses may also not be covered under private health insurance.
Where Can You Get Help?
For any questions concerning your pregnancy, health, or baby’s health, call Pregnancy and birth you can speak LMA team.