Every expecting mum in New Zealand needs an Lead Maternity Carer (or LMC). This can either be a midwife, GP or a specialist Obstetrician.
Some mothers will tell you a midwife is the best approach. And for a lot of women, that may well be the case. Many speak warmly of the relationship they develop with the midwife, who is there with them across the duration of the pregnancy.
Other mums say they put their trust in an obstetrician. That added level of medical expertise can prove invaluable, especially for women who have reason to believe they may face a problematic pregnancy.
No two experiences of pregnancy are alike, and we do everything possible to respond to your individual wants and needs. Whatever your situation, we offer care options designed to fit in with your views and the way you live.
TotalCare
Midwife + Specialist Obstetrician
Beginnings TotalCare offers you the best of both worlds – a midwife and a specialist obstetrician available to you throughout pregnancy and birth, 24/7.
We believe this offers all the advantages of personalised midwifery care with the comfort of knowing expert medical knowledge and skill is at hand if needed. This is a unique approach in New Zealand and reflects the deep mutual respect our practitioners have for each other.
Can I choose my Midwife?
Yes, of course! We welcome independent midwives, in addition to working closely with the team at Kate Sheppard Midwifery. If you don’t already have a midwife, we will organise for you to meet our team.
Can I choose my Specialist?
Yes, you may choose which specialist you wish (should their schedule permit), and all of your antenatal appointments will be with your chosen specialist.
How often will I see my Specialist & my Midwife?
Your midwife will be your Lead Maternity Carer (LMC) and will be your day-to-day point of contact as the weeks and months progress. You can expect to see your Obstetrican 4-5 times during pregnancy, and then once after the birth. However, clinics will be run every day so that your baby will be seen and monitored if necessary.
When will my first appointment be?
Get in touch with us as soon as you know you’re pregnant. Generally you will have your first midwifery appointment at 8-10 weeks. At this visit she will explain how she will look after you and what early blood tests and scans are available as part of early pregnancy screening. She will then book you in for your first appointment with your specialist.
Can I have an elective Caesarean?
Yes, our specialists are expert surgeons and do offer this service. Let’s discuss your questions and expectations. Your TotalCare fee includes a Caesarean should the need or wish arise.
Where will/can I give birth?
We currently only deliver at North Shore Hospital, ensuring a safe environment for all patients, should the unexpected happen.
How much does TotalCare cost?
The fee for TotalCare is $4000 and is due in full by 32 weeks pregnant (This includes an early payment discount of $250. If paid after 32 weeks, the full fee is $4250).
Can you update my GP during my pregnancy?
If you choose, Beginnings will maintain contact with your GP and inform them of any important developments that may occur during pregnancy. A written summary of your care will be made available to your GP after birth, as well as 4 weeks post-natal, so you can safely transition back to their care.
Midwifery Care
Midwife Only
In partnership with the team at Kate Sheppard Midwifery, we provide friendly professional midwifery care which is free of charge. We have a wonderful group of independent midwives and provide pregnancy care from early in your pregnancy throughout until four to six weeks after the birth of your baby. We work using the partnership model which means that you and your midwife enter into a relationship based on trust, information sharing and shared decision making.
Can I choose my Midwife?
Yes, of course! We work closely with the team at Kate Sheppard Midwifery and you can choose who you wish to look after you (depending on availability).
How often will I see my Midwife?
Your midwife will be your Lead Maternity Carer (LMC) and will be your day-to-day point of contact as the weeks and months progress. Each midwife will have a different approach, and it is best to talk to your individual carer.
When will my first appointment be?
Get in touch with us as soon as you know you’re pregnant. Generally you will have your first midwifery appointment at 8-10 weeks. At this visit she will explain how she will look after you and what early blood tests and scans are available as part of early pregnancy screening.
Where will/can I give birth?
Most of the time, you will have your baby at North Shore Hospital, as this ensures a safe environment for all new mums. However, you may wish to give birth at home. It is best to discuss your options with your chosen midwife – you will cover this at your first appointment.
How much does Midwifery Care cost?
Midwifery care is free of charge in New Zealand, providing that you meet Ministry of Health criteria.
Your Midwife
- Your partner throughout your pregnancy and birth
- Your go-to person at all times to discuss any worries or concerns
- Will visit you in your home after your birth to ensure the best start for your baby
- Normal Vaginal Birth experts
- Breastfeeding experts
Your Obstetrician
- Provides safety of expert medical knowledge and experience
- Will intuitively spot any health problems (for mother and baby) and make timely intervention
- Ensures personalised hospital care, should the unexpected happen
- Experienced surgeon with a track record of expertise