Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

Hi all,
We've recently had the ok for oz but also had a double whammy of a shock, just found out i'm pregnant, so i'm feeling a bit worried as it means giving birth in oz.
We just wondered if hospitals are ok,and whats the score with medical insurance-whats the best type to go for?
If anyone's had a similar experience it would be great to hear from you.

Regards,
Jo and Dave.

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

Unfortunately you can't get private insurance for pregnancy and birth after you become pregnant - there's a 9-month waiting period for obstetrics to avoid people taking up insurance just for that reason. This means that you will either have to pay the full amount if you want to go private or rely on Medicare (free).

Funnily enough, people have babies here all the time and their survival rate is no different from the UK. Hospitals and obstetric services offered here are exactly the same as the UK.

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

I dunno, Id have thought that squuezzin a melon sized thing outta oneself would be the same the world over :D

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

Sorry, no words of advice...just wanted to say, 'I'm sooooo glad you put JO and Dave at the end!!

Was starting to get worried :D

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

It still hurts.

IIRC the infant mortality rate is a fraction lower in Oz compared to the UK... nothing significant though.

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

Try and find a hospital that gives you the choices you want whether it be midwife or obstetric led. Try and find out the caesar rates as some places have very high rates (especially private). As with anywhere the standard of care varies from hospital to hospital.

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

It's lovely ... you can get live coverage of the cricket on your mobile these days. And the little tyke comes out as soon as the waters break for maximum surf.

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

It hurts here as well ;)

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

Didnt hurt me at all :D

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

We avoided private. Why pay all that money for a doctor led attitude. I read somewhere that doctors see labour as a 'disease', whereas a public midwife led hospital will 'lead' you through labour. A doctor is much more likely to get 'impatient' and go for the C section. It is probably more cost effective for him as well.

Stay public is my advice but get a good hospital with good midwives.

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

Nor me Brian. :p

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

Have a read of this: Cost of having a baby in Australia

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

Hi there, first of all CONGRATULATIONS.
Now my Aussy friend has two children, the 1st one they had private ins, and the care was good, the 2nd they did not and the care was even better, so there you go. You will be fine Im sure. Dont worry, it hurts wherever you are. Denise [mum of six]

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

Spot on...

Very very hard to get home birthing here, My wife who is a nurse, and definitely didn't trust most obstetricians had to really fight the system to have our 4 kids born at home.

Check the Caesar and epsiotomy and forcep delivery rates, which are well documented by the Home birthing association here, and remain static with each specific doctor for some reason.


There are some Great midwifes in this country.

Re: Giving birth in Aus, how does it compare?
 

Congratulations on your pregnancy.

I think you will be just fine and not only do you have your new life to look forward to, but a new baby to share it with.

Love Sam