faq

When should I have my first obstetrician appointment?

We recommend that you contact us to book your first appointment as soon as you know you are pregnant. 

To book an appointment, please call Judy or Lorraine on  (02) 9966 5500 or email [email protected].

Dr. van der Griend first sees patients at approximately 10 weeks gestation, although he may recommend seeing you earlier in certain cases. 

Do I need a referral for my appointment?

Yes. A referral from your GP or specialist is required for your appointment. This is to ensure you can claim with Medicare and to keep your family GP up to date. Your GP referral will be valid for 12 months, whilst a specialist referral will be only valid for 3 months. Referrals need to be renewed annually. 

What should I expect during my first visit?

At your first appointment, Dr. van der Griend will take your medical history and perform a dating scan using advanced 4D ultrasound. He will organise further investigations such as blood tests, detailed ultrasound and antenatal screening, and answer any questions or concerns that you have. 

How often will I see Dr. van der Griend during my pregnancy? 

Usually you will have approximately 10 visits throughout your pregnancy. Each visit involves a blood pressure check, examination and ultrasound. 

You will see Dr. van der Griend every 4 weeks up until 28 weeks, fortnightly until 36 weeks, and weekly until the birth of your baby. This appointment schedule is flexible, depending on each patient’s needs. For example, high-risk pregnancies may need to be seen more frequently. 

If you have any concerns between visits, please call reception and Dr. van der Griend will contact you or schedule an appointment if necessary. As a private obstetrician, Dr. van der Griend is available 24/7 via the rooms or hospital birthing suites after hours. (link to contact details below or contact page)

Following the birth of your baby, you will have a postnatal check at 6 weeks. This is to ensure good healing, discuss contraception, and assess your wellbeing. 

Will Dr. van der Griend be available for my birth? 

Almost always, yes. In the rare circumstances that Dr. van der Griend is unavailable, for example during planned annual leave, he has experienced colleagues that will provide the same high standards of care.  

Dr. van der Griend usually plans his holidays 12 months in advance so you will be informed prior to commencing as a private patient.

What should I do if I have an emergency between appointments?

Please call Judy or Lorraine on (02) 9966 5500 during office hours if you have any concerns about your pregnancy. If it is outside of office hours, please contact the birthing suite of your booked hospital:

North Shore Private Hospital Maternity Unit Birthing Suites: (02) 8425 3288

The Mater Hospital Maternity Unit Birthing Suites: (02) 9900 7681 or 9900 7682