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Complete Pregnancy, Birth & Postnatal Package

Congratulations on your pregnancy. I am delighted to be able to offer you and your family my services at such a special time. As an independent midwife I can provide continuity of care through pregnancy, birth and beyond, whether you choose to give birth at home, in a birth centre or a hospital. To find out more about me - click here.

Jane Palmer

Independent Midwife

The Interview

Finding the right person to care for you is very important. One way of ensuring you have found the right person/s is by interviewing different health care practitioners in early pregnancy or better still before pregnancy. I welcome interview appointments as an opportunity to find out more about each other and our philosophies. It is helpful to prepare questions before attending the interview. The interview appointment generally takes at least one hour. Once the interview has concluded I encourage you to spend time deciding whether or not I am the right health professional for you.

Prenatal Care

I work individually with a woman and her family. Pregnancy visits are scheduled at mutually convenient times. Both you and your baby's well being is monitored. Lots of opportunity for discussion on topics of interest is provided. The service includes a complete education package for pregnancy, birth and parenting. On average you will find your prenatal visits last one hour. A large number of books and videos are available to borrow. You will  also have access to 24 hour telephone support throughout the pregnancy, birth and postnatal period.

Homebirth, Birth Centre or Hospital Birth

Pregnancy and birth are a natural and healthy event. Continuity of care right through pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period is provided no matter where your plan to give birth.  You are attended in labour once it has established or when you request midwifery assistance. If the labour is long, a backup midwife is available.

Postnatal Care

After the birth postnatal care is provided for up to six weeks.  On average there are seven postnatal visits, which includes a six week postnatal check. The timing of the postnatal visits is negotiated after the birth. The aim is for the midwife to visit the woman when she most likely to need assistance. If further postnatal care or lactation consultation (for any ongoing breastfeeding problems) is required additional visits can be arranged.

Comprehensive Six Week Postnatal Check

A comprehensive six-week check is provided. Follow up after the birth is important. The aim is promote the general health and well being of both mother and baby. This check lasts approximately one hour. Education provided includes infant feeding, postnatal exercises, parenting and family adjustments, family planning and community resources. This visit signals the end of the midwifery care package.

A summary of the complete 'Pregnancy, birth and postnatal package' is presented below:

• Prenatal visits every 4 weeks until 30 weeks, 2nd weekly visits till 36 weeks and then weekly visits until the baby is born

• Birth care at home, hospital or birth centre

• A midwife will be with you during established labour or when midwifery presence is requested

• Postnatal visits occur every day for the first four days, then on the sixth day and once the next week. Care is concluded at the six week postnatal visit. More or less visits can be scheduled if needed.

• 24 hour on call

• An extensive library of books and videos which you are welcome to borrow from.

• You hold your own progress notes for the period of your care. Your notes are then photocopied for you to keep.

• You will receive the book "Pregnancy, For Dummies", a book of handouts and a subscription to ‘Homebirth Access Sydney’ (this is optional).

• Besides all this you will receive continuity of care by  your chosen midwife through pregnancy, birth and beyond. Midwifery care aims to support you and your choices for this pregnancy and birth.

• Medical back is available if needed.

My midwifery practice is supported by other independent midwives who will provide back up should circumstances require it. Opportunity is provided during your pregnancy to meet with these midwives.

Cost for complete package

$4000 to $4500 (there are additional costs for travel outside the midwifery service area) - view area

Cost for interview appointment

$75.00 per hour - this amount is deducted off total fee if a booking is made.

Further information or appointments contact

Jane Palmer by Email: jane@pregnancy.com.au

                                            or

                              Phone: (02) 9873 1750

Health Fund Rebates available from some health funds

Disclaimer

The information contained on this website is of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. The information is not meant to replace the recommendations or advise of your midwife or doctor. Please consult your midwife or doctor regarding your health care. 

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