Having Your Baby at ERH

You’ve found out you’re pregnant – what do I do now?

Firstly, congratulations on your pregnancy. Pregnancy can be an exciting and overwhelming time. Here at Echuca Regional Health we are here to guide and support you through every step of your journey.

When you suspect or think you are pregnant the first step involves booking into your general practitioner (GP). Here, they will perform a general check-up and confirm your pregnancy.

Once your pregnancy is confirmed, your GP will take a detailed medical history, order an antenatal pregnancy serology screen, dating scan and 12-week ultrasound. At this appointment your GP should also discuss genetic screening options with you. Prior to 12-weeks’ gestation, this includes the combined genetic screen and/or the Non-Invasive Pre Natal Testing (NIPT). These tests are used as a tool to screen for genetic abnormalities.

At your GP visit the doctor will also record your height and weight to calculate a body mass index (BMI). If your BMI is over 40, for health and safety reasons, you will be unable to birth at Echuca Regional Health and you will be referred to a larger facility for your birth. However shared care between facilities may be arranged.

Once all these tests have returned, your GP will need to send a referral through the Echuca Regional Health maternity ward. The ward clerk will then call you to arrange a suitable time to book into the hospital.
A self-referral can also be accepted if you have copies of your pathology and ultrasounds.

What is involved in the Antenatal serology pregnancy screen?

The antenatal pregnancy screen occurs in the first trimester of your pregnancy. It is used to screen if you and your baby are healthy or further screening is required. The following blood tests should be ordered by your GP once pregnancy is confirmed;

Blood group and antibodies.
Full blood examination.
Iron studies.
Hepatitus B & C, HIV and Syphilis.
Rubella level.
Vitamin D.
Urine microscopy, culture and sensitivity.
Chlamydia & Gonorrhea screen.

I have my pregnancy bloods and scans completed and my referral has been sent to ERH Maternity, what next?

You should receive a phone call from the ward clerk on the Maternity ward to book into the hospital to have your baby.

You will book in between 14- 20 weeks either via phone or in the Antenatal clinic located on the ground floor, in the Maternity ward.