Common Questions

A Cochrane review in 2016 reviewed 15 trials involving 17,674” low-risk” women. It concluded, women who were cared for under continuity of care models were: - 24% less likely to have a preterm birth - 19% less likely to have a stillbirth before 24 wks - 15% less likely to have an epidural - 10% less likely to have an assisted birth - 16% less likely to have an episiotomy - 5% more likely to have a spontaneous vaginal birth - Had higher rate of maternal satisfaction

I can provide all the care required during pregnancy and postpartum. When indicated or requested, I can send referrals to other healthcare providers with consent. In this case, collaborative care can be provided. Midwifery services are available to all women, despite "risk" classification.

The schedule for antenatal and postnatal consultations is based on routine recommendations and you and your baby’s individual needs. The schedule of care is discussed at an initial antenatal consultation or booking-in consultation.

This is a guide for what your care schedule might look like: - 6 - 12 wks: Booking In Consultation - 12 - 14 wks: Antenatal Consultation - 16 wks: Antenatal Consultation - 20 wks: Antenatal Consultation - 24 wks: Antenatal Consultation - 28 wks: Antenatal Consultation - 31 wks: Labour & Birth Planning - 34 wks: Labour & Birth Planning - 36 wks: Antenatal Consultation + Postpartum Planning - 38 wks: Antenatal Consultation - 40 wks: Antenatal Consultation - 41 wks: Antenatal Consultation Care by Beneath The Palms Midwifery is 100% individualised. The above is only a rough guide and may look different if requested by you or with collaborative care arrangements

Yes, Elle TENS 2 machines are available for hire for all Beneath The Palms Midwifery clients from 37 weeks for 5 weeks for $40 (incl. new electrodes).

I offer home visits from Palm Cove to Gordanvale. Other locations may be available upon arrangement.

Routine antenatal and postnatal consultations run for at least 45-60mins, however this is only an estimate, sometimes extra time is needed. The booking-in consultation is usually 60-90 minutes and labour & birth planning consultations run for at least 2 hrs. The initial NDC consultation runs for around 60 minutes with options of 30 or 60 minute follow up NDC consults. Partner, support person and kids welcome to attend any appointments.

I have a strong belief in the importance of continuity of care and home birth, however I am unable to provide support or care during labour and birth. I have two small children and therefore I am unable to provide this service.

Beneath the Palms Midwifery is not a bulk billing service, thus there is an out of pocket cost per visit. Please see "Services" page on this website for fee's and consultation descriptions.

I respect that your time is valuable and a reminder text will be sent out 48 hours prior to your appointment. If you are unable to attend your appointment or need to reschedule, I do appreciate as much notice as possible by calling &/or leaving a message if out of business hours, this way I will be able to adjust my schedule accordingly. Please note that appointments changed or cancelled within 24 hours notice of the appointment start time, or failing to present for an appointment will incur the 50% service charge. I understand that life happens, so if it comes to the day and you are unable to attend your appointment, please call and we can make a plan.

All antenatal and postnatal appointments up to 7 weeks attract a Medicare rebate. The amount of rebate depends upon your personal circumstances, such as how much out-of-pocket you have paid for medical expenses in the year & the type of appointment. Unfortunately, NDC consultations beyond 7 weeks postnatal DO NOT attract a medicare rebate.

Some private health insurance funds provide rebates for midwifery services. I suggest ringing and speaking to your private health care fund about what is available to you under your policy.

Consultation fees are to be paid in full at the time of consultation. Payment can be made by EFTPOS, credit card or PayPass. A Receipt is sent via email with all the details required to claim your Medicare rebate. Check out https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/getting-medicare-benefits?context=60092 for information on how to claim your medicare rebate.

To access care at Beneath The Palms Midwifery, simply call or email me to self-refer. Alternatively you can ask your healthcare provider, such as a GP or Private Obstetrician, to refer you via email.

My hours vary from week to week, with weekend and out of hours consultations available upon request.