Welcome to the Antenatal Services at James St Medical Northbridge. We understand that the journey to parenthood is both exciting and transformative, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals are experienced in antenatal care, providing personalized and comprehensive support to ensure the health and well-being of both you and your baby. We prioritize your needs and concerns, creating a nurturing environment where you can feel comfortable and informed. At James St Medical Northbridge, we are committed to making your pregnancy experience as smooth and joyful as possible.
What to Expect During Your First Antenatal Visit
At your first antenatal visit to James St Medical Northbridge, you will receive a comprehensive check-up to ensure your health is optimum. We recommend scheduling this appointment as soon as you find out you’re pregnant, ideally before 10 weeks into your pregnancy.
During this visit, our experienced team will perform a thorough assessment, which may include:
– Health Check: A complete physical examination to assess your overall health and any pre-existing conditions.
– Blood Tests: We will organize essential antenatal blood tests to check for various factors, including blood type, pregnancy related immunity levels, and screening for any potential health concerns.
– Nutritional Guidance: We will discuss the importance of starting folic acid and iodine supplements if you haven’t already begun, as these are crucial for your baby’s development.
Additionally, we will explore your delivery options and help you decide who you would like as your primary maternity carer. You can choose from:
– An obstetrician
– A midwife or midwife group
– A public hospital maternity team
We will also discuss the first trimester screening and other screening options available to you. It’s essential that you feel informed and comfortable with your choices, and our trained doctors are here to assist you in making the best decisions for your pregnancy journey.
First Trimester Screening Tests for Pregnancy
What is the First Trimester Screen?
The first trimester screen (FTS) is a combination of a blood test and an ultrasound scan performed between 9 and 12 weeks of pregnancy. This screening helps estimate the risk of a mother having a baby with chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome. It is important to note that this is not a diagnostic test.
Components of the First Trimester Screen:
- Blood Test: Ideally conducted around 10 weeks of pregnancy, this test measures the levels of specific hormones in the mother’s blood.
- Ultrasound Scan: Performed around 12 weeks, this scan measures the nuchal translucency, which is the fluid-filled space at the back of the baby’s neck.
The results from these tests are expressed as a risk ratio. If the results indicate a high risk, further diagnostic testing may be recommended.
Additional Testing Options:
– Noninvasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): A newer method that provides results through a blood test alone. While NIPT is highly accurate, a first trimester ultrasound is still recommended for comprehensive assessment.
Purpose of the Screening:
FTS and NIPT provide valuable information regarding the risk of certain genetic anomalies, including:
– Down syndrome
– Trisomy 13
– Trisomy 18
First Trimester Ultrasound Benefits:
– Confirms the viability of the fetus.
– Diagnoses multiple pregnancies if no earlier scan was performed.
– Establishes the due date if no prior ultrasound has been conducted.
At James St Medical Northbridge, our doctors are available to discuss these tests and their implications in detail during your first antenatal visit, ensuring you have all the information you need to make informed decisions about your pregnancy.
GP Shared Care for Antenatal Care
At James St Medical Northbridge, we offer a GP shared care program designed for pregnant women who wish to receive personalized care from their own doctor while navigating the public hospital system. Under this program, you will have the opportunity to see your GP for most of your antenatal appointments, allowing for a more personalized and familiar approach to your care. Additionally, you will attend appointments at the hospital during key stages of your pregnancy.
This program provides choice, convenience, and continuity of care throughout your pregnancy journey.
How It Works:
– Regular Appointments with Your GP: You will have the majority of your antenatal care with your GP, who will monitor your health and your baby’s development. This includes checking your blood pressure, measuring fundal height, and organizing essential antenatal testings.
– Hospital Appointments: For women choosing to deliver in the public hospital system, you will have scheduled appointments at the hospital’s Antenatal Clinic around 20-22 weeks and again from 36 weeks onwards. These visits are essential for more specialized assessments and to ensure everything is progressing well.
– Comprehensive Care: Your GP will coordinate any necessary antenatal testing and provide ongoing support throughout your pregnancy, ensuring you receive the care you need when you need it.
Choosing GP shared care means you can enjoy the benefits of personalized attention from your own doctor while still accessing the resources and expertise of the public hospital system.
Postnatal Services at James St Medical Northbridge
We prioritize the health and well-being of both mothers and their newborns. We offer a comprehensive 6-week postnatal check for mums and babies to ensure a smooth transition into parenthood.
During this appointment, we will:
– Discuss Your Delivery Experience: We provide a supportive environment where you can share your delivery experience and any concerns you may have. This debriefing is an important part of your recovery.
– Physical Health Assessment: We will check that your pap smear and immunizations are up to date and assess your overall physical recovery after childbirth.
– Mental Health Screening: This visit is also an opportunity to screen for postnatal depression and discuss any emotional challenges you may be facing. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health during this time.
– Parenting Support: If you have any questions or concerns about parenting, we are here to help. Whether it’s feeding, sleep patterns, or general baby care, our team is ready to provide guidance and support.