Welcome to Your Maternity Journey
We know preparing for the arrival of your baby can feel both exciting and overwhelming. This guide is here to help you know what to bring, what to expect, and the support available to you during your stay with us. From labour and delivery to settling in at home, we’re here to make your experience as comfortable, safe, and joyful as possible.
What to bring
For Labour and Delivery
Bring anything that helps you feel comfortable during labour eg. your favourite pillow, music, or natural oils. We provide refreshments for you and your partner/support person, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you wish.
For the Maternity Ward
- Comfortable clothing for mum
- Toiletries
- Maternity pads and breast pads. We also recommend Hydrogel Breast Discs for their soothing and healing properties during the transition to breastfeeding
- Clothing and a swaddle for your baby to go home in.
Newborn Tests and Screening
Newborn Screening Test
Performed on all babies in Australia once they are 48 hours old, this test checks for metabolic disorders that can affect development if untreated. We provide full information before asking for your consent.
Hearing Test
Offered through the Queensland Statewide Infant Screening Hearing (SWISH) program. This test is done during your stay and takes about 10–20 minutes.
Support Services
Lactation Consultants
Available throughout your stay to provide feeding advice and support, whether you’re a first-time mum or looking for a refresher. We offer guidance without judgment.
Red Book
Your baby’s Red Book will be provided after birth and must stay with your baby during your hospital stay. It records growth, development, medical history, and immunisations, and should be brought to all future health appointments.
Birth Registration
Forms for registering your baby and claiming maternity allowance are issued during your stay. Take them home as they cannot be reissued. Birth registration must be completed within 60 days at www.bdm.qld.gov.au/registration/birth.
Personalised Care Board
A board in your room keeps you involved in your care and your baby’s care. Use it to note reminders or questions for your doctor or midwife.
Room Services and Amenities
Servicing Your Room
Expect hotel-standard cleanliness and presentation. If you need towels changed, extra toiletries, or additional room cleaning, just ask—we’re here to fuss over you.
Hospital Amenities
- Hudson’s Café (ground floor) for cakes, savouries, gifts, cards, and flowers
- Wi-Fi throughout the hospital
- Woolworths within a five-minute walk
Going Home
Knowing your discharge plan helps you prepare for life after birth.
Length of Stay
- Vaginal birth: ~3 nights
- Caesarean birth: ~5 nights
- Provided there are no complications
- If your baby requires longer care in our Special Care Nursery, boarder accommodation is available for you and your partner at no extra cost.
- Standard discharge time: 10:00 am
Postnatal Check-ups and Support
- Midwives are available by phone during the first few days at home.
- Postnatal check-up with your obstetrician: ~6 weeks
- Baby’s check-up with paediatrician: ~6 weeks
- Queensland Health Child and Family Health Nurse will contact you within two weeks for ongoing follow-up.
- Access to Child and Family Health drop-in clinics from home.
Ongoing Support
We continue to support you and your baby after you leave the hospital, including:
- 24/7 Midwife Hotline
- Complimentary in-home midwife visits
- Lactation consultant support
- Boarder accommodation in Special Care Nursery
- Antenatal classes (online and in-person)
- 24-hour emergency care and direct-to-ward admissions
- Mother’s support group
- ‘Born at Gold Coast Private’ Facebook community