Pregnancy and birth

Australia’s first No-gap private hospital pregnancy care

For first-time parents Brooke and Mike, HCF’s No-Gap Pregnancy package seemed too good to be true.

Planning for pregnancy

Starting a family is an exciting time in your life. Here’s what you should know before you try to conceive.

Pregnancy and birth: public vs private

Find out the difference between going public and private for pregnancy and birth.

Back to basics: conception

Getting to know your cycle is essential when trying to have a baby, with only a small window of opportunity each month. Here’s how to better understand your fertility.

Infertility and its challenges

When to check in with your doctor if your baby-making plans aren’t going to plan and what to expect in the months ahead.

CHOOSING PREGNANCY ALONE OR AS A SAME-SEX COUPLE

There’s plenty of help and support for women and same-sex couples interested in starting a family.

WHAT IT’S LIKE TO GO THROUGH IVF

For would-be parents trying to get pregnant, the expense and stress of IVF can be emotional and overwhelming.

You’re pregnant! Now what?

What you need to know during those early days of pregnancy.

UNPLANNED PREGNANCY

Understanding your options if you’re confronted with an unintended pregnancy.

COPING WITH MISCARRIAGE

Losing a baby is heartbreaking. So common and yet so little talked about. It’s important to have the basic facts and to know where to get help.

Choosing your pregnancy healthcare team

When you’re newly pregnant you’ll need to make decisions about your care during your pregnancy and for the birth. Here’s how it works.

TESTS IN PREGNANCY: WHAT TO EXPECT

This guide will help you understand what to expect with each medical test in pregnancy, when you’ll be tested and how to prepare.

CAN I EAT THIS? A GUIDE TO PREGNANCY NUTRITION

We find out what you can eat and drink – and what you should avoid – during pregnancy.

EXERCISING DURING PREGNANCY: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Exercising during pregnancy is good for you and your baby, but what type is best, how much and what should you avoid?

11 WAYS YOUR BODY CAN CHANGE DURING PREGNANCY

Your body goes through many changes during this time. We find out what’s normal, what’s not – and when to seek medical advice.

PREGNANCY WARNING SIGNS

You’ll experience lots of changes to your body during pregnancy. Here are some signs to watch out for, telling you it’s time to see your doctor.

PREGNANCY: A PARTNER’S PERSPECTIVE

What can you expect when your partner is expecting? We get some expert advice – plus firsthand insights – on how to prepare for the many different emotions you’ll both face.

How to prepare for childbirth

Getting your body and mind ready for labour will help you feel more prepared. We ask a midwife for her tips on preparing for birth.

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR KIDS FOR A NEW BABY

Mums share their tips on how they introduced their new baby to their kids.

YOUR PAIN RELIEF OPTIONS DURING LABOUR

How to manage the pain while giving birth, from natural painkillers to epidurals.

PREMATURE BIRTH: WHEN BABY ARRIVES EARLY

Here’s what you need to know if your baby is born ahead of schedule.

The first weeks with your newborn

Bringing home your baby is an exciting time but can also come with a dose of apprehension and plenty of challenges. Here are some tips on what to expect.

PRE AND POSTNATAL DEPRESSION: WHEN TO SEEK HELP

How to spot the signs of perinatal anxiety or depression, and what to do about it.

CAN MEN GET POSTNATAL DEPRESSION TOO?

How to know if you, or a loved one, are suffering from depression or anxiety after becoming a father.

YOUR BODY AFTER BIRTH

There are many body changes you might experience after carrying and having a baby. Here are some of the most common postnatal challenges and tips for moving forward.

THE SILENT STRUGGLE: INCONTINENCE DURING AND AFTER PREGNANCY

What does pregnancy and postpartum incontinence involve and are you at risk?

NAVIGATING PARENTHOOD PODCAST

Becoming a parent can be both the greatest and hardest thing you’ll experience. Listen to parents share their real stories – the joys and stress, the advice and insight in our new podcast.

Listen now

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

This communication contains information which is copyright to The Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia Limited (HCF). It should not be copied, disclosed or distributed without the authority of HCF. Except as required by law, HCF does not represent, warrant and/or guarantee that this communication is free from errors, virus, interception or interference. All reasonable efforts have been taken to ensure the accuracy of material contained on this website. It’s not intended that this website be comprehensive or render advice. HCF members should rely on authoritative advice they seek from qualified practitioners in the health and medical fields as the information provided on this website is general information only and may not be suitable to individual circumstances or health needs. Please check with your health professional before making any dietary, medical or other health decisions as a result of reading this website.

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