03 9467 9444Are you seeking a Private Obstetrician in Preston? Dr Steven Hatzikostas is an experienced Preston Obstetrician who delivers at Northpark Private, St Vincent’s Private and Royal Women’s Hospital.
Dr Steven Hatzikostas is a well-respected private obstetrician, with extensive experience, Dr Hatzikostas is a favoured private obstetrician for expectant mums in the area. We suggest potential patients reach out and book as soon as they confirm their pregnancy. Alternatively, book a free meet and greet when you’ve decided to start your family journey, allowing you to get acquainted with Dr Hatzikostas and receive advice on your path ahead.
A key difference Dr Hatzikostas offers compared to other obstetricians is his 24/7 access to his private on-call number, ensuring his patients receive constant support and tailored care. Dr Hatzikostas provides obstetrics and gynaecology services, including after-hours care.
Pregnancy is a thrilling and life-changing journey, and having the right medical support is vital. For mums-to-be in Preston and nearby suburbs, finding a skilled obstetrician can be crucial in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Experience and Specialisations
Experience is key when choosing an obstetrician. Look for professionals with a proven history of managing various types of pregnancies and deliveries. Dr Hatzikostas, alongside managing typical pregnancies, also specialises in high-risk pregnancies, including those complicated by diabetes or high blood pressure. Dr Hatzikostas offers specialised services such as:
- Multiple pregnancy – identical and non-identical twins
- Vaginal births after previous caesarean sections (VBAC)
- Recurrent Miscarriage
Patient Reviews and Recommendations
Patient feedback can offer valuable insights into an obstetrician’s quality of care. Many patients have shared positive experiences with him as their obstetrician. For instance, Dr Steven Hatzikostas is praised for his thoroughness and round-the-clock availability.
When selecting an obstetrician, consider factors such as:
- Availability of 24/7 care
- Hospital affiliations (e.g., Northpark Private Hospital)
- Communication style and bedside manner
- Ability to handle complex cases
Dr Steven Hatzikostas is one of the few obstetricians in Preston who provides his patients with his mobile number for 24/7 contact. He doesn’t have a shared practice, meaning he’ll always be the one delivering your baby and caring for you throughout your pregnancy.
Knowledge and Skill
Dr Hatzikostas brings extensive expertise in managing high-risk pregnancies and general women’s health issues. As a trusted private obstetrician at Northpark Private Hospital, St Vincent’s Private and Royal Women’s, he is committed to offering personalised care, ensuring each patient feels supported throughout their pregnancy journey.
Choosing the right obstetrician is crucial for a positive pregnancy and birth experience. As one of Preston’s top private obstetricians, Dr Hatzikostas has vast experience with various types of deliveries, including VBAC, C-section, and vaginal births. His respectful and attentive approach, coupled with round-the-clock care, makes him a preferred choice for expectant mothers at Northpark Private Hospital. Get in touch today to learn more about our obstetrics and gynaecology services.
Individualised Obstetric Care
Dr Hatzikostas offers outstanding support during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum at Northpark Private Hospital or St Vincent’s Private and Royal Women’s. His compassionate and professional approach ensures that every stage of the journey is managed with expertise, promoting women’s health. Dr Hatzikostas empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care. For reliable and personalised obstetric care, contact Dr Steven Hatzikostas and his dedicated team.
Free Meet-and-Greet Consultation
Pregnancy Counselling is essential, not an afterthought. The notion that pregnancy is “always normal and worry-free” isn’t always accurate. It’s crucial to monitor all patients, identify issues, and treat when necessary. Most pregnancies do result in healthy babies.
That’s why Dr Steven Hatzikostas, a leading private obstetrician in Melbourne, offers a FREE initial consultation for expectant patients looking for a private obstetrician in Melbourne to discuss pregnancy concerns. Having a thorough chat with your obstetrician before fully committing is a valuable opportunity all potential parents should take. As one of the best obstetricians in Melbourne, Dr Hatzikostas ensures comprehensive care throughout your journey. To book your consultation, simply ring us on 9467 9444 during office hours.
Standard Pregnancy Care
Most pregnancies follow a routine course with standard scans and antenatal checks. Dr Hatzikostas provides early pregnancy ultrasounds, available weekly up to 10 weeks gestation. These are particularly beneficial for women with previous miscarriages or those at higher risk. Ultrasound scans are also conducted if there are any concerns about the pregnancy, such as after falls, bleeding, or reduced foetal movements.
- Antenatal blood tests are performed at 10 weeks gestation
- Screening for inherited conditions like Cystic Fibrosis, Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), and Fragile X syndrome is available. These tests are discussed and offered as additional options at 10 weeks gestation if needed.
- Chromosome anomaly testing is offered to all pregnant patients.
Foetal morphology ultrasound scans:
- Conducted at 20 weeks.
Routine blood tests are also standard in all pregnancies, typically done at 28 and 36 weeks gestation. These include:
- Gestational Diabetes Test (GTT at 28 weeks)
- Thyroid function and antibody tests
- Vitamin and mineral deficiency checks (28 and 36 weeks)
- Antibody screens for all Rh-negative women (28 and 34 weeks).
For information about routine scans and additional pregnancy tests, please consult our team about the comprehensive services Dr Hatzikostas offers.
Your First Trimester Experience
Initial Appointments
The first trimester marks the start of an exciting journey. Expectant mothers in Preston should aim to have their first antenatal care visit before 10 weeks, ideally between 6 to 8 weeks of pregnancy. We advise booking as soon as you confirm your pregnancy, as Dr Hatzikostas is in high demand and delaying may result in unavailability. If you’re trying to conceive, we also offer a free meet and greet to get to know Dr Hatzikostas, making it easier to choose an obstetrician in Preston.
The initial consultation includes a thorough health check, covering:
- Blood pressure measurement
- Weight and height assessment
- Urine test for urinary tract infections
- Blood tests for blood group, rhesus factor, and various condition screenings
Dr Hatzikostas’s team also calculates the due date and may arrange a dating scan if needed.
Early Pregnancy Ultrasounds
Ultrasound scans are crucial in early pregnancy care. If you’re ever worried, Dr Hatzikostas encourages patients to ring his clinic for further investigation. Keeping stress levels low is important – even if it’s just a reassuring scan to check the baby’s heartbeat. Towards the end of the first trimester, you’re typically offered an ultrasound scan. This scan serves several purposes:
- Detecting the baby’s heartbeat
- Confirming multiple pregnancies (if applicable)
- Determining the baby’s size and due date
- Screening for certain health conditions
Addressing Common Concerns
The first trimester often brings various discomforts. Common issues include:
- Morning sickness (which can occur at any time)
- Constipation
- Food cravings and aversions
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue and sleep difficulties
Dr Hatzikostas provides guidance on managing these symptoms and maintaining overall health during pregnancy. He discusses topics such as nutrition, exercise, and necessary supplements. For women experiencing severe symptoms, additional support and treatment options are available.
Second and Third-Trimester Care
Regular Check-ups
During the second and third trimesters, expectant mothers in Preston can expect regular appointments to monitor their health and the baby’s development. These typically occur at 19-20 weeks, 22 weeks, 26-27 weeks, 28 weeks, 32 weeks, 34-36 weeks, 38-39 weeks, and 40-41 weeks. Each visit involves measuring blood pressure, checking the baby’s growth through abdominal palpation, and assessing the mother’s overall health.
As the pregnancy progresses, additional tests are performed. At 26-27 weeks, a blood glucose tolerance test for diabetes is conducted. From 28 weeks onwards, healthcare providers check the baby’s heartbeat and movements. In the later stages, around 34-36 weeks, the baby’s presentation and position are assessed to prepare for delivery.
Foetal Development Monitoring
Monitoring foetal development is crucial during these trimesters. A key aspect is tracking foetal movements. Dr Hatzikostas advises his patients to be aware of their baby’s movements and to contact his office or call his number after hours if they notice decreased or absent foetal movement.
Throughout the second and third trimesters, various tests and scans are conducted to ensure the baby’s healthy development. These may include:
- Anomaly scan: Usually performed between 18-21 weeks, this detailed ultrasound checks the baby’s physical development.
- Growth scans: These may be recommended if there are concerns about the baby’s growth or in high-risk pregnancies.
- Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT): This blood test can be done from 10 weeks to screen for certain chromosomal conditions.
Dr Hatzikostas ensures that all necessary tests are carried out and thoroughly explained to expectant mothers. He believes in empowering his patients with knowledge, allowing them to make informed decisions about their care.
As the due date approaches, Dr Hatzikostas discusses birth plans with his patients. This includes preferences for pain relief, delivery methods, and any specific concerns or requests. He ensures that each mother feels prepared and supported as they approach the exciting moment of meeting their baby.
Remember, while these tests and check-ups are standard, every pregnancy is unique. Dr Hatzikostas tailors his care to each individual patient, ensuring that both mother and baby receive the best possible care throughout the pregnancy journey. His commitment to 24/7 availability means that patients can always reach out with any concerns, providing peace of mind during this important time.
Getting Ready for Labour
Third-trimester ultrasound scans are crucial for assessing foetal health. These growth scans estimate the baby’s weight, check amniotic fluid levels, determine the baby’s position, and evaluate the placenta and umbilical cord. They provide valuable insights into the baby’s overall well-being and development.
As the due date nears, Dr Hatzikostas guides expectant mums through labour preparation. He explains the stages of labour, including the second stage (from full cervical dilation to birth) and the third stage (delivery of placenta and membranes). Dr Hatzikostas discusses active management of the third stage to lower the risk of postpartum bleeding. Throughout, he maintains a private, calming environment, mindful of the woman’s emotional needs.
Labour, Delivery, and Beyond
Creating a Birth Plan
A birth plan helps mums-to-be express their preferences for labour and delivery. It outlines desired birthing positions, pain relief options, and who should be present. While flexibility is key, as births can be unpredictable, a well-thought-out plan ensures clear communication of important aspects.
Managing Pain During Labour
Labour pain varies for each woman, with some preferring natural methods and others open to medical interventions. Pain management options include:
Non-medical techniques:
- Breathing exercises
- Support from a partner or loved one
- Distractions like music
- Heat or cold packs, massage, and warm baths
Medical options:
- Nitrous oxide (gas and air)
- Pethidine injections
- Epidural anaesthesia
Postnatal Care
The fourth trimester begins after birth. Dr Hatzikostas visits you in the hospital during recovery and schedules a 6-week check-up. This important appointment ensures your body is healing properly and your overall health is good.
Dr Hatzikostas offers exceptional support throughout your entire pregnancy journey. Contact us today to book a consultation and experience the outstanding care and dedication that Dr Hatzikostas and his team provide at Northpark Private Hospital
