Obstetrics

Pregnancy is an extraordinary journey that brings excitement, anticipation and, at times, anxiety.

At Monash Obstetrics in Melbourne, our experienced team of specialist obstetricians provides comprehensive care throughout every stage of pregnancy – from pre-conception and early pregnancy through to birth and postnatal recovery.

We offer personalised, evidence-based care for both low-risk and high-risk pregnancies, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of mother and baby. Whether you are planning your first pregnancy or have complex medical needs, our goal is to provide exceptional clinical care with warmth, compassion and clear communication at every step.

Our Approach to Pregnancy Care

Monash Obstetrics is one of Melbourne’s leading obstetric practices, with consultant obstetricians and gynaecologists offering decades of combined experience. Our approach is built on four key principles:

  • Continuity of care – seeing the same specialist throughout pregnancy builds trust, consistency and confidence.
  • Personalised management – every pregnancy is different; care plans are tailored to your medical history, preferences and circumstances.
  • Evidence-based medicine – our specialists draw on the latest research and national guidelines to ensure the best outcomes.
  • Open communication – we take time to explain options and empower patients to make informed choices about their care.

For most women, pregnancy progresses smoothly without major complications. Our team provides thorough antenatal care to support your health and monitor your baby’s development.

Routine low-risk pregnancy care includes:

  • Regular antenatal visits for physical examinations and ultrasound scans.
  • Blood pressure and urine checks to monitor for pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes.
  • Screening for genetic conditions and chromosomal abnormalities (if desired).
  • Guidance on nutrition, exercise, and vitamin supplementation (including folic acid and iodine).
  • Education about common symptoms such as morning sickness, fatigue and back pain.
  • Preparation for labour, delivery and breastfeeding.


Appointments become more frequent as pregnancy progresses – typically monthly until 28 weeks, fortnightly until 36 weeks, and weekly thereafter.

Some pregnancies require closer monitoring due to maternal or fetal conditions that increase the risk of complications. At Monash Obstetrics, we are highly experienced in managing high-risk pregnancies with advanced diagnostics, multidisciplinary collaboration and personalised birth planning.

A pregnancy may be classified as high risk if:

  • The mother has pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders or autoimmune disease.
  • There are complications in the current pregnancy – such as pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or pre-term labour.
  • The pregnancy involves twins or higher multiples.
  • The mother is over 40 years of age.
  • There is a history of miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth.
  • There are known fetal anomalies or genetic concerns.


Our specialists work closely with maternal-fetal medicine consultants, endocrinologists, haematologists and neonatologists where necessary, ensuring seamless coordination across all aspects of care.

Common Pregnancy Conditions We Manage

  • Overview: GDM affects around 10–15 % of pregnancies in Australia and is caused by hormonal changes that reduce insulin sensitivity.
  • Risks: Poorly controlled GDM increases the risk of large birth weight (macrosomia), pre-term birth and complications during delivery.
  • Management: The doctors collaborate with a diabetes educator, and endocrinologist if required, to provide dietary counselling, glucose monitoring, and medication or insulin if required. Careful control minimises risks to both mother and baby.
  • Overview: High blood pressure in pregnancy can develop after 20 weeks and may indicate pre-eclampsia – a condition affecting the placenta and maternal organs.
  • Risks: If untreated, pre-eclampsia can lead to serious complications such as placental abruption, premature delivery or maternal organ dysfunction.
  • Management: Regular monitoring of blood pressure, blood tests and fetal growth assessments are essential. Early detection and management are critical for safety.
  • Overview: Twin pregnancies occur in about 1 in 80 births in Australia.
  • Risks: Higher likelihood of pre-term birth, growth restriction and gestational diabetes.
  • Management: Frequent ultrasounds and specialist obstetric supervision are recommended to monitor growth, fluid levels and placental health.
  • Overview: Placenta praevia occurs when the placenta covers or partially covers the cervix.
  • Risks: Can cause bleeding in the second or third trimester and may require caesarean delivery.
  • Management: Careful ultrasound monitoring and planning for delivery in a controlled hospital environment are key.
  • Overview: Labour that begins before 37 weeks.
  • Risks: Prematurity can affect the baby’s lung development and long-term health.
  • Management: Early signs are treated promptly with medications, hospital observation, and sometimes interventions to delay labour or support fetal development.

Antenatal Screening and Ultrasound

Monash Obstetrics provides access to state-of-the-art imaging and screening to monitor your baby’s wellbeing.

  • First trimester ultrasound – dating scan and nuchal translucency screening (11–14 weeks).
  • Morphology scan – detailed anatomy scan at 18–20 weeks to assess growth and detect structural abnormalities.
  • Third trimester growth scans – where indicated for high-risk or complicated pregnancies.
  • Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) – available for early detection of chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome.


These investigations are used to guide management, ensure early detection of any issues, and reassure parents of their baby’s healthy development.

Labour and Birth

Every woman’s birth experience is unique. Our obstetricians are experienced in both vaginal and caesarean births, and will discuss your preferences while prioritising safety.

Delivery options include:

  • Spontaneous vaginal birth – supported by continuous monitoring and a skilled obstetric team.
  • Induction of labour – recommended when medical conditions or timing make it safer to bring on labour.
  • Elective or emergency caesarean section – when vaginal birth is not advisable or in urgent situations.


Pain management options such as epidural anaesthesia, gas or other medications are available and discussed openly with each patient. Our team also supports the involvement of midwives, birth partners and doulas as part of your birthing plan.

The weeks following birth are a time of adjustment, recovery and bonding. Monash Obstetrics provides ongoing support after delivery, including:

  • Monitoring wound healing or caesarean recovery.
  • Managing postnatal bleeding, blood pressure and mental health.
  • Advice on breastfeeding, contraception and resumption of activity.
  • Debriefing the birth experience and planning for future pregnancies.


We also remain accessible for any concerns that arise after discharge from hospital, ensuring continuity and peace of mind.

While most pregnancies progress without major issues, complications can occur. These include:

  • Pre-term labour
  • Gestational hypertension or diabetes
  • Placental insufficiency
  • Fetal growth restriction
  • Postpartum haemorrhage
  • Perinatal depression


Early detection and expert management significantly improve outcomes. At Monash Obstetrics, each patient receives an individualised care plan with regular monitoring to identify and address any concerns as early as possible.

Lifestyle and Health Optimisation

Many couples can significantly improve fertility through simple lifestyle changes. Our team provides individualised advice on:

  • Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and antioxidants supports reproductive health.
  • Weight management: Achieving a healthy body mass index (BMI) improves ovulation and sperm quality.
  • Exercise: Regular moderate activity (but not excessive training) is beneficial.
  • Smoking and alcohol cessation: Both significantly reduce fertility and increase pregnancy risks.
  • Stress reduction: Chronic stress can alter hormonal balance; mindfulness and counselling can help.


Men are also encouraged to avoid excessive heat exposure (e.g., saunas, tight underwear) and certain medications or supplements that can impair sperm quality.

Emotional and Psychological Support

Infertility can be emotionally draining, with feelings of frustration, anxiety, and isolation being common. At Monash Obstetrics, we understand that fertility treatment is not only a medical process but an emotional journey.

Our team provides compassionate, confidential support throughout your experience and can arrange referral to fertility counsellors or psychologists if needed. Support networks and fertility groups can also play a valuable role in helping couples cope with uncertainty and maintain optimism.

Why Choose Monash Obstetrics for Pregnancy Care

  • Comprehensive expertise: highly qualified specialists covering the full spectrum of obstetrics and gynaecology.
  • Collaborative care: Strong links with Melbourne’s leading maternity hospitals and multidisciplinary teams.
  • Personalised service: Individual care plans tailored to your pregnancy type, preferences and medical background.
  • Advanced technology: Access to high-resolution ultrasound, prenatal testing and minimally invasive surgical support when required.
  • Compassionate communication: Our doctors are known for taking the time to explain, reassure and involve patients in every decision.


Whether your pregnancy is straightforward or medically complex, Monash Obstetrics provides world-class care delivered with empathy, respect and unwavering commitment to your wellbeing.

Book Your Consultation and Start Your Journey Today

Ready to take the next step in your health, fertility or pregnancy care? Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialist.