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Preparing for the birth

Birth choices and making a birth plan

Thinking ahead about your birth preferences helps you prepare, make informed choices, and feel confident and supported during labour and birth.

Choosing where to give birth

You can choose where to give birth. This could be at home, in a public or private hospital or in a birth unit. Learn more about making this choice.

Maternity models of care

Learn about maternity models of care in Australia and how to choose the best option for your pregnancy, birth and postnatal journey.

Having a baby in hospital

You can choose to have your baby in a public or private hospital. Both will provide quality care. Find out how to book in and who will care for you.

What to expect if I have my baby at a birthing centre

Birthing centres are usually more home-like than hospitals. Birthing centres are run by midwives and some offer water birth. Find out what to expect.

Birth bag checklist

Use this handy checklist to have your birth bag ready for when it's time to go to the hospital or birth centre.

Going to hospital or birthing centre

Whether you're planning to have your baby in hospital or at a midwifery-led birth centre, you should get a few things ready at least two weeks before ...

Home birth

If you are healthy and your pregnancy is not at risk of complications, you may consider a homebirth. Speak to a midwife or doctor about your options.

Pain relief during labour

During labour, natural and medical pain relief options are available. Learn more about different types of pain relief and when they might be suitable.

Preparing your home for when your baby arrives

Bringing your baby home can be an exciting time. From clothes, bedding and car seats, here are a few tips on what you should have ready.

Call us and speak to a Maternal Child Health Nurse for personal advice and guidance.

Need further advice or guidance from our maternal child health nurses?

1800 882 436

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