When complications occur

Your birth is a special time in your life but sometimes it does not always go exactly to plan. Medical interventions are sometimes needed to help with the birth of your baby.

If you are less than 20 weeks pregnant and experiencing problems, please contact your GP or phone the hospital (07) 3883 7777 and ask for the emergency department.

Inducing your labour

Your doctor or midwife will advise you if your labour needs to be induced. Timeframes for delivery vary after induction. Some women deliver within a few hours and others can take 1-3 days. It is important to consider your different choices, the benefits and the risks associated with this method.

Assisted birth

Sometimes women may require assistance during labour to reduce the stress of the baby, when the baby is not transferring through the birth canal or you cannot push the baby through. Your doctor will support you through this process.

Caesarean delivery

A caesarean delivery can be the best option due to previous medical history or other individual health reasons, including complications in labour. Our most important aim is for a healthy mum and baby. Generally elective caesareans are performed during your 39th week of pregnancy.

Baby born earlier than expected

Newborns are admitted to our Special Care Nursery if they are born prematurely (less than 37 weeks gestation) or require diagnosis and further care. The Special Care Nursery is located on the Maternity Ward on Level 3, Main Building. The Special Care Nursery cares for sick and preterm babies of 32 weeks gestation and above.