When to come to hospital to give birth

Always call the hospital and speak to a midwife in the birthing suite before leaving to come to the hospital. Ask your obstetrician if they have any special recommendations for you for when to come to hospital.

If this is your first baby with a healthy pregnancy and no other complications you will usually be advised as a guide to come to hospital when the contractions are at regular 5 minute intervals and lasting approximately 45 seconds. It is recommended to time your contractions

If you live some distance from the hospital, or are finding it difficult to cope with the contractions, you can phone the midwives at the hospital on 9531 8230 and they can advise you.

If your waters release, even if you are not in labour, you will need to contact the birthing suite and come into hospital at that time.

Do not hesitate to call the midwives in the birthing suite, available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

Contact the hospital or your obstetrician immediately if you have any of the following:

• vaginal bleeding
• reduced fetal movements
• frontal or recurring headaches
• sudden swelling
• rupture of the membranes (waters release)
• premature onset of contractions (before 37 weeks).

Phone the maternity unit on 9531 8230 or 9531 8230 (switchboard).