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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from parents about antenatal consultations, hospital care, feeding, newborn concerns and how our practice works.
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Can't find your answer?
These are the questions we hear most often. If yours isn’t here, email admin@neopaeds.au or call (03) 9007 2099 (Mon–Fri 9–5). For symptom-specific concerns, see when to seek help.
Pregnancy and birth
“When should I book an antenatal consultation?”
Ideally between 28–32 weeks, or earlier if your obstetrician has identified specific concerns. → For expecting parents.
“Will the paediatrician be at the delivery?”
Dr Jubal attends when medical concerns are anticipated, caesareans, preterm birth, or anticipated need for resuscitation. For routine deliveries the midwifery team provides initial care and Dr Jubal reviews on the next ward round.
Hospital stay
“How often will we see the paediatrician?”
We round on most days of a postnatal-ward stay, every day if your baby is in the Special Care Nursery, with the midwives updating us on progress between visits. Extra visits when concerns arise; on-call cover for urgent issues is 24/7. → Your baby in hospital.
“What routine tests will my baby need?”
Newborn examination, bloodspot heel-prick, hearing screen, pulse oximetry, and jaundice monitoring if indicated. Additional tests only where medically necessary.
“How long will we stay in hospital?”
Typically 2–4 nights after a vaginal birth and 3–5 nights after a caesarean, adjusted to how you and your baby are doing. → Your baby in hospital for the day-by-day walkthrough.
Feeding
“What if breastfeeding is difficult?”
Many families struggle in the first days and weeks, common, usually fixable with the right support, and not “failure.” For breastfeeding and lactation support we point families to the Frances Perry House Maternity Care Centre. The Australian Breastfeeding Association helpline (1800 686 268, 24/7) is also useful. → Breastfeeding support.
“How do I know my baby is getting enough?”
6+ wet nappies/day after day 5, back to birth weight by day 10–14, then steady gain. Some early weight loss is normal; >10% triggers active review. → Breastfeeding support for the full markers.
Common newborn concerns
“Is jaundice serious?”
Mild jaundice is common — around 60% of term newborns develop visible jaundice in the first week and usually resolves on its own. Treatment (phototherapy) when levels cross the threshold. Concerning if it appears in the first 24 hours, spreads rapidly, or the baby is sleepy / off feeds. → Newborn jaundice.
“Why does my baby cry so much?”
Newborn crying peaks around 6–8 weeks and settles. Up to 2–3 hours a day is within normal range. Never shake a baby: put them down safely and call for help if you need a break. → The unsettled baby peak.
“What does normal poo look like?”
Day 1–2: dark sticky meconium. Day 4–5: yellow-seedy (breastfed) or khaki-pasty (formula). Pale, white or chalky stools need a same-day GP review (urgently if the urine is dark); blood-streaked stools or true black stools beyond day 3 also warrant prompt advice.
At home
“When should I call for help at home?”
Trust your instincts. MCH Line 13 22 29 is 24/7 free nurse advice. For symptom-specific judgement, our when to seek help traffic-light page. 000 for anything life-threatening, don’t wait for business hours.
“Is it safe to co-sleep?”
Red Nose Australia: share-room, not share-bed. Cot or bassinet next to your bed for the first 6–12 months. Bed-sharing risk is higher with prematurity, smoking, alcohol or sedating medication. → Safe sleep.
“When will we see Dr Jubal after discharge?”
Your MCH nurse checks your baby at home, ideally in the first week, weight and general wellbeing. The paediatric review is at 6 weeks; we arrange an earlier review when jaundice, weight, feeding or a hospital finding needs a closer look, and that will be in your discharge plan.
Administrative
“What are your fees?”
See fees. Medicare rebates apply with a valid referral; private health-fund coverage varies. We charge above the Medicare schedule fee.
“Do I need a referral?”
Yes. Babies are seen at your obstetrician’s request: that referral covers newborn care and lasts three months. After that, a GP referral (valid 12 months) continues the Medicare rebate. Antenatal consultations also need a GP or obstetrician referral for the rebate.
“How do I book?”
Email admin@neopaeds.au or call (03) 9007 2099 (Mon–Fri 9–5). For antenatal consultations, have your referral and your obstetrician’s name ready. → Contact for location detail.
Still got a question?
Email admin@neopaeds.au or call (03) 9007 2099 (Mon–Fri 9–5).