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Before birth

For Expecting Parents

Antenatal consultations and preparation for your baby's arrival — what to expect, when to book, and how we can help.

Last reviewed

A swaddled newborn

Meeting us before your baby arrives

An antenatal consultation is a chance to meet your paediatrician before the birth, ask questions, and plan any extra support your baby might need. It’s not essential for every pregnancy: most families book one when there’s a specific question, or to establish care early.

When to schedule an antenatal consultation

A consultation can be useful at any stage, but most parents choose to come in the third trimester (around 28–36 weeks). Consider booking if:

  • Your obstetrician has identified any concerns during pregnancy
  • You are expecting twins or multiples
  • There is a family history of premature birth, neonatal conditions, or genetic concerns
  • You have specific questions about newborn care, feeding, or screening
  • You would like to establish care with a paediatrician before birth
  • You have experienced a previous pregnancy loss or difficult birth and want extra support

Bring a referral from your obstetrician or GP: it's needed for the Medicare rebate. See our fees page for details.

What to expect during your visit

Medical history review

We’ll review your pregnancy, your ultrasound findings, and any medical concerns for you, your baby or your family. Bring your antenatal records if you have them.

Care planning

Together we’ll plan your baby’s care after birth, who’s involved, what assessments are likely, and how to reach us if questions come up.

Education and support

We cover newborn care, feeding, common concerns, and what to expect during your stay at Frances Perry. Bring the questions you want covered.

Topics we often discuss

Families most often want to cover:

  • What will happen at birth: who attends, what the Apgar score means, skin-to-skin, vitamin K, the newborn check
  • Newborn screening: the heel-prick test, hearing screen and pulse oximetry, and why each is offered
  • Feeding: how breastfeeding is supported at Frances Perry, top-up options if needed, safe formula preparation
  • Jaundice: why some babies develop it, what’s monitored, and when treatment (phototherapy) is used
  • Safe sleep: Red Nose guidance for cots, rooming-in, and bed-sharing risks
  • On the first day, with your consent: the vitamin K injection (given to prevent bleeding; it is not a vaccine) and the birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine, which is on the National Immunisation Program
  • Vaccinations in pregnancy: whooping cough (dTpa) at 20–32 weeks · influenza at any stage · the RSV vaccine (Abrysvo) at 28–36 weeks. All are recommended and free under the National Immunisation Program, and all pass protection to your baby for the first months
  • What to expect in the hospital: length of stay, ward rounds, who visits, and going-home readiness
  • Common first-weeks concerns: crying, spitting up, nappy patterns, sleep rhythms, when to call
  • Your own recovery and mental health: perinatal anxiety, baby blues vs postnatal depression, PANDA and local support
  • Specific concerns from your pregnancy: gestational diabetes, growth restriction, family history, prior difficult birth

You don’t need to prepare: topics are tailored to your referral and your pregnancy.

Common questions

When should I book my consultation?

Any time from the start of the third trimester (28 weeks). If your obstetrician has flagged a specific concern, we can usually see you sooner. Contact reception through our contact page, by email (admin@neopaeds.au), or on (03) 9007 2099.

What should I bring?

  • Your antenatal records or handheld notes
  • Any recent ultrasound reports
  • A list of the questions you want covered
  • Your partner, support person, or family member if you would like

Is my partner welcome?

Yes, many families find it helpful to have two people present, so nothing needs relaying afterwards.

Do I need a referral?

A referral from your obstetrician or GP is needed to claim the Medicare rebate; most families are referred by their obstetrician. See our fees page for current rates and rebate information.

Trusted information while you wait

Book an antenatal consultation

Contact us to arrange a time that works for you.

References