Consider where you wish to give birth to the baby, who will care for you during your pregnancy and the financial implications of your choice. Regular medical check-ups and good care throughout pregnancy will reduce the risks to you and your baby.
State-subsidised hospitals and clinics
- Obstetrician.
- Midwife.
Private hospitals and clinics
- Obstetrician.
- General practitioner.
- Midwife.
Home birth
- Midwife.
- General practitioner.
- Obstetrician.
What to ask:
- Ask the doctor and midwife about their qualifications and experience.
- Ask about fees charged.
- Who will respond to your calls when the caregiver is off duty or not on call?
- Do they have delivery privileges at more than one hospital?
- Will they consider home birth?
Set up an initial appointment and prepare your screening questions. Time is of the essence during this appointment, so select a few key questions to determine whether or not the caregiver’s philosophy about pregnancy is similar to yours.
Consult the following sources for more information on childbirth education classes:
- Caregiver.
- Place of delivery.
- Family and friends.
- Local childbirth associations.
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