Obstetrics

Many people see an obstetrician early in pregnancy, and if you want a private obstetrician it is worth booking soon after you find out, as many have limited places. Your GP can confirm the pregnancy, arrange early blood tests and scans, and give you a referral. If you have a health condition or had a complicated pregnancy before, you may see an obstetrician even sooner.

Yes, in most cases. To see a private obstetrician and claim a Medicare rebate, you need a referral from your GP. Your GP can also explain other options, such as public hospital care, midwife-led care or shared care between your GP and a hospital. It is a good idea to see your GP as soon as you think you are pregnant.

Use Health Hunter to browse practitioners who work with obstetrics across Australia. You can filter by condition, practitioner type and location, view each practitioner's profile and areas of interest, and book online. Many practitioners also offer telehealth.

Obstetricians work closely with midwives and other health professionals to provide comprehensive care, address any complications and support a safe, healthy birth.

Care includes prenatal check-ups, ultrasounds, managing pregnancy-related conditions, labour and delivery support, and postnatal care.

Obstetrics is the branch of medicine that cares for women during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, focusing on the health and safety of both mother and baby.