What about my support people and whānau?
Your whānau and support people (yes more than one person) are welcome to stay with you for as long as you would like.
What about pain relief or an emergency?
If you do require pain relief, “gas and air” (Entonox) and pethidine are available, but the most popular option is the birthing pools.
There are highly skilled and experienced midwives available 24 hours a day to assist alongside your LMC/midwife.
If required, transfer via ambulance or private vehicles to Auckland Hospital is quick and safe. Once there, your LMC can continue your care in conjunction with the specialists and midwives at the hospital.
What about breastfeeding support?
You have access to experienced midwives and lactation consultants, so you and baby can get breastfeeding off to a good start.
What about postnatal care at the primary birthing unit?
After your bundle of joy is born at a Birthcare, you are given a free private room (whenever possible, subject to availability) where your partner or support person is welcome to stay the night.
You will get tasty and nutritious meals prepared by the resident chef. Postpartum supplies such as sanitary pads and, for baby, disposable nappies and wipes are available. Additionally, newborn hearing screening, physiotherapists and paediatrician services are also available as well as a visiting photographer.
Your LMC/Midwife can advise you on your options about your local primary birthing unit.
Birthcare has two primary birthing units – Birthcare Huntly and Birthcare Auckland. Also, you can follow them on Facebook.
* Source: C.P. Grigg et al. (2015). Transfer from primary maternity unit to tertiary hospital in New Zealand – timing, frequency, reasons, urgency and outcomes: Part of the Evaluating Maternity Units. Midwifery. Sep;31 (9) pgs 879-87
