Blog
BENEFITS OF SKIN TO SKIN CONTACT
Skin to skin cuddles are arguably one of the best experiences with a newborn. Who wouldn’t love holding your baby against your skin, snuggled in blankets? Also referred to as ‘Kangaroo Care’, in the minutes following childbirth – provided there are no complications –...
BIRTH PLANS – WHAT TO INCLUDE
A birth plan is a very personal thing – for some people it’s essential; for others, not so much. At Gold Coast Private Maternity, our goal is to support every mother in her journey and to help her achieve the birth she wants. We will listen to and respect your philosophy and your wishes, so long as you and your baby are safe. What is important to remember, is that despite everyone’s best efforts, in birth as in life, plans can change. For this reason, we recommend creating ‘birth preferences’. This way, you can inform us of what you would like to happen in an ideal situation, we work to the best of our ability to make that happen, but if for medical or unforeseen reasons things need to be flexible, there is room for that too.
HOW TO KEEP COOL WHEN YOU’RE ONE HOT MAMMA (you know, in Summer).
Wondering why you’re feeling the heat more than usual? When you’re pregnant your body temperature generally sits a little higher than average, so when the mercury rises outside it can prove extremely unpleasant. In some cases, excessive heat can cause health concerns (dehydration, respiratory illness, chest pains etc).
VERNIX – WASH IT OFF OR RUB IT IN?
Vernix caseosa (aka ‘vernix’) is a creamy, white, cheese-like film consisting of almost 80 per cent water that covers the skin of the fetus during the last trimester of pregnancy and is still present at birth. It is a naturally occurring coating that has numerous functions before, during and after birth, including protecting your new baby’s skin and helping them to adapt to life outside the womb.
I’VE JUST FOUND OUT I’M PREGNANT – WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
For many women, finding out you are pregnant is an exciting moment but it can also be overwhelming and feel like there is a never-ending stream of information you need to know.Here’s an overview of the major tests, scans and other important milestones you can expect during each trimester of your pregnancy.
TRIMESTER THREE – TESTS AND SCANS
You’re nearly there in terms of birthing your baby…but in terms of tests, there’s still more to consider during your third trimester. Here’s what you can expect.
TRIMESTER TWO – TESTS AND SCANS
You’ve past the most risky period and are now into your second trimester – the one that’s usually the most enjoyable since any sickness should have subsided and your belly isn’t too stretched! Still, there are more tests and scans to consider – here’s a rundown for you.
TRIMESTER ONE – TESTS AND SCANS
As exciting as it is, pregnancy can sometimes feel like you’re in a never-ending loop of tests, scans, appointments and needles. Here’s what’s offered during your first trimester. It’s always a good idea to talk to your care provider about your options in-depth so you can make the most informed decisions on what is best for you and your baby.
I’M PREGNANT, SHOULD I GET THE FLU JAB?
The simple answer is: yes. We often get asked by expectant mothers if it is safe to receive the influenza immunisation and, with concerns particularly high during the global pandemic and the flu season just around the corner, the question is coming up more frequently. We understand pregnancy can already be an anxious time and, now more than ever, it is important to get the right information about this vaccine.
EMOTIONAL HEALTH DURING PREGNANCY AND PARENTHOOD
Having a baby is likely to be one of the most exciting and challenging experiences of your life, filled with emotions spanning the spectrum of joy, exhilaration and wonder, through to times of stress, uncertainty and anxiety.
It's All About You
Gold Coast Private Hospital is a Healthscope-operated facility. Healthscope is a leading private healthcare provider in Australia with 43 hospitals as well as a market leading international pathology operation in New Zealand. We believe in the provision of quality healthcare for our patients. Our team of over 18,000 employees understands that healthcare is a special business. Healthscope staff provide quality care and positively contribute to the clinical outcomes of our patients 24/7, 365 days a year.