Maternity

If your pregnancy has been normal with no complications, it's best to stay at home in early labour for as long as possible. Research shows that women labour better at home in familiar surroundings. This allows labour to progress naturally. 

It's not always clear when labour has started. If you're unsure or worried, please call the hospital. Sometimes, just talking through your symptoms can help you relax. You and the midwife can discuss when it's time to come to the hospital. If you are still worried after seeking phone advice, even if recommended to stay home, you are welcome to attend for an in-person review by the midwives and doctors. 

Please phone the midwife prior to attending the birth suite where possible: 

Ballarat: 03 5320 4979  
Horsham: 03 5381 9261   

Contact the hospital if: 

• Your baby's movements have changed 
• Your waters have broken 
• Your contractions are becoming painful and regular 
• You have any vaginal bleeding 
• You think you may be going into labour before 37 weeks 
• You think you may be going into labour and are booked for a Caesarean Section 
• You develop a severe headache, blurred vision, or upper abdominal pain 
• You are worried about yourself or your baby 

Depending on your situation, you may be advised to stay at home or come to the hospital for assessment. 

When you arrive at the hospital, you'll be assessed in the Pregnancy Assessment Service (PAS). Your blood pressure, pulse, and temperature will be noted, and the midwife will listen to your baby's heartbeat. 

The midwife or doctor will check your abdomen to assess the baby's position and your contractions. A vaginal (internal) examination may be offered to check how much your cervix has dilated and how far down your baby's head is in the pelvis. 

If you are in active labour, you'll be admitted to the Birthing Suite. If you are in early labour, you may be able to return home for a while. 

Grampians Health has three birth suites available 24/7 in Ballarat and two in Horsham.