Just Found Out You’re Pregnant? When Should You Book Your Obstetrician?

Finding out you’re pregnant is an exciting moment. Along with the joy and anticipation often comes a long list of questions.

One of the most common questions women ask in the early weeks of pregnancy is:

“When should I book an obstetrician?”

Many women are surprised to learn that if they are planning private obstetric care, it is best to book an appointment quite early in pregnancy.

Why booking early matters

Obstetricians usually limit the number of women they care for each month so they can provide personalised care throughout pregnancy and be available when it matters most — at the birth of your baby.

Because of this, places for certain due dates can fill quickly.

Booking your obstetrician early helps ensure that you are able to receive care from the doctor you choose throughout your pregnancy.

Most women will see their obstetrician for the first time at around 8–10 weeks of pregnancy, but it is often helpful to book the appointment earlier than this to secure availability.

What to do after a positive pregnancy test

If you have recently discovered you are pregnant, the first step is usually to make an appointment with your GP.

Your GP will typically:

• Confirm your pregnancy

• Arrange early blood tests

• Organise a referral to an obstetrician if you are planning private care

Once you have this referral, you can contact the obstetrician’s rooms to arrange your first pregnancy appointment.

Pregnancy care with Dr Stephen Cole

Dr Stephen Cole is a specialist obstetrician based in East Melbourne who has cared for thousands of women throughout pregnancy and birth.

He provides individualised pregnancy care, supporting women from the early weeks of pregnancy through to the birth of their baby.

Dr Cole cares for women with a wide range of pregnancies including:

• First pregnancies

• IVF pregnancies

• Twin and multiple pregnancies

• Pregnancies after miscarriage

• Higher-risk or medically complex pregnancies

His approach focuses on providing experienced, supportive and personalised care, helping women feel informed and confident throughout their pregnancy journey.

Personalised care throughout your pregnancy

Choosing an obstetrician is an important decision.

During pregnancy you will see your obstetrician regularly, discuss important decisions together and rely on their experience to guide you through each stage of the journey.

Dr Cole aims to provide continuity of care throughout pregnancy, allowing women to build a trusted relationship with their obstetrician and feel supported from the early weeks through to the birth of their baby.

Your first pregnancy appointment

Your first appointment with Dr Cole usually takes place around 8–10 weeks of pregnancy.

At this visit you will:

• Review your medical and pregnancy history

• Discuss early pregnancy screening tests

• Plan your pregnancy care

• Have time to ask questions about the months ahead

This appointment helps set the foundation for your pregnancy care and ensures you have the information and support you need from the very beginning.

Starting your pregnancy journey with confidence

Pregnancy is an exciting and important time in your life.

Having the right care from the beginning can make a real difference to how supported and confident you feel throughout the journey.

If you have recently discovered you are pregnant and are considering private obstetric care, you are welcome to contact Dr Stephen Cole’s rooms to arrange your first appointment.

Early bookings are recommended to ensure availability for your due date.