• Blogs
  • What does obstetric-led care really mean?

What does obstetric-led care really mean?

01 August 2018

Blog
Maternity
Obstetrician Dr Chris Gunnell explains what obstetric-led care means for you.

Obstetric-led care with an obstetrician of your choice gives you the confidence to enjoy the journey through pregnancy, childbirth and beyond.

You should expect to have the best medical advice, treatment and emotional support provided by your highly qualified and experienced obstetrician.

What is obstetric-led care?

Obstetric-led care is when you are primarily cared for by an obstetrician throughout your pregnancy, during birth, and up to six weeks after birth.

This means you see your obstetrician for all antenatal check-ups, and they are present at the birth.

During antenatal appointments, your obstetrician focuses on your physical and emotional wellbeing.

They arrange blood tests, scans, check your blood pressure and make sure your baby’s growth is on track.

Some obstetricians have a midwife, GP or psychologist working with them as a part of their multidisciplinary team but they are your primary carer.

Continuity of care

When you choose private maternity care, you select your obstetrician and, it is your obstetrician who cares for you throughout the pregnancy.

Having one person to guide you and provide continuity of care relieves anxiety by allowing you to build a trusting relationship with them.

Your obstetrician provides individualised care in relation to your personal and medical requirements.

This tailored approach gives you the confidence and trust to ensure your pregnancy and birth options will be respected.

High-risk pregnancies

When your pregnancy is considered high-risk, it is even more important that you have continuity of care.

Your obstetrician is able to provide any additional care as required and monitor you closely.

You may require additional tests, more frequent visits and a referral to other specialists.

Your obstetrician manages all of these issues and provides you explanations and reassurance along the way.

This close relationships with your obstetrician, who understands your healthcare needs, provides you peace of mind and helps to reduce the inevitable anxieties.

gunnel_chris_MED0001540469_300.jpg
Dr Christopher Gunnell - Obstetrician and Gynaecologist

Dr Gunnell is a Perth trained obstetrician and gynaecologist who has been in private practice since 1998 and practices at St John of God Murdoch Hospital.  He has a particular interest in normal childbirth, but also has the experience and expertise to manage high-risk and complicated pregnancies and births. He provides a wide range of general gynaecological services, with a special interest in the management of menstrual issues and menopause.