03 9467 9444Are you looking for a Private Obstetrician in Bundoora? Dr Steve Hatzikostas is an experienced Bundoora Obstetrician who delivers at Northpark Private, St Vincent’s Private and Royal Women’s Hospital.
Dr Steven Hatzikostas is a highly regarded private obstetrician, delivering babies at Northpark Private Hospital, Bundoora. With years of experience, Dr Hatzikostas is a very popular private obstetrician for expectant mothers in the area. We advise prospective patients to contact us and book as soon as they confirm their pregnancy. Or book a free meet and greet when you have decided to begin the journey of having a family, that way you can get to know Dr Hatzikostas and get advice on your journey.
One point of difference Dr Hatzikostas offers compared to other obstetricians is his round-the-clock access to his private on-call number, ensuring his patients receive unwavering support and personalised care. Dr Hatzikostas provides obstetrics and gynaecology services, including after-hours care.
Pregnancy is an exciting and transformative journey, and having the right medical support is crucial. For expectant mothers in Bundoora and the surrounding suburbs, finding a skilled obstetrician can make all the difference in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Experience and Specialisations
Experience plays a vital role in selecting an obstetrician. Look for professionals with a proven track record in managing various types of pregnancies and deliveries. Dr Hatzikostas, alongside providing management to typical pregnancies also specialises in high-risk pregnancies, including those complicated by diabetes or high blood pressure. Dr Hatzikostats offers specialised services such as:
- Vaginal births for twins and breech positions
- Vaginal births after previous caesarean sections (VBAC)
- Breech presentations
Patient Reviews and Recommendations
Patient feedback can provide valuable insights into an obstetrician’s care quality. Many patients have shared positive experiences with their obstetricians. For instance, Dr Steven Hatzikostas is commended for his thoroughness and being on call 24/7.
When choosing 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 Steve Hatzikostas is one of the only obstetricians in Bundoora who gives his patients his mobile number to call him 24/7. He does not have a shared practice which means he will always be the one delivering your baby and taking care of you throughout your pregnancy.
Knowledge and Skill
Dr Hatzikostas brings a wealth of expertise in managing high-risk pregnancies and general women’s health issues. As a trusted private obstetrician at Northpark Private Hospital Bundoora, St Vincent’s Private and Royal Womens, he is devoted to offering tailored care, ensuring each patient feels supported throughout their pregnancy journey.
Selecting the right obstetrician is crucial for a positive pregnancy and birth experience. As one of Bundoora’s top private obstetricians, Dr Hatzikostas has extensive 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 exceptional support during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum at Northpark Private Hospital in Bundoora or St Vincent’s Private and Royal Womens. 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 at, reach out to Dr Steven Hatzikostas and his dedicated team.
No-cost meet-and-greet consultation for all pregnant patients seeking an obstetrician
Pregnancy Counselling is essential, not an afterthought. The idea that pregnancy is “always normal and worry-free” isn’t always true. It’s important to monitor all patients, spot issues, and treat when needed. 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 Tests
Most pregnancies are normal and involve routine pregnancy scans and antenatal tests. Dr Hatzikostas offers early pregnancy ultrasound scans that can be done weekly until 10 weeks gestation. This can be for women who have had a miscarriage before or are at risk. Ultrasound scans will also be done if there’s any worry about the pregnancy (e.g. after falls, bleeding, and reduced foetal movements etc.).
- Antenatal blood tests at 10 weeks gestation
- Screening for inherited disorders (Cystic Fibrosis, SMA Spinal Muscular Atrophy and Fragile X syndrome) are available and these tests would be discussed and offered as options for further testing at 10 weeks gestation if needed.
- Chromosome anomaly testing is offered to all pregnant patients.
Foetal morphology ultrasound scans:
- Carried out at 20 weeks.
Specific blood tests
Specific blood tests are also routine in all pregnancies and are done at 28 and 36 weeks gestation. They include testing for:
- Gestational Diabetes (GTT at 28 weeks)
- Thyroid function tests and Thyroid antibody tests
- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies (28 and 36 weeks)
- Antibody screens in all Rh Negative women (28 and 34 weeks).
For routine scans and additional pregnancy tests, please consult our staff about the comprehensive services offered by Dr Hatzikostas.
Your First Trimester Journey
Initial Consultations
The first trimester marks the beginning of an exciting journey. Expectant mothers in Bundoora should aim to have their initial antenatal care appointment before the 10-week mark, ideally between 6 to 8 weeks of pregnancy. We advise you to call and book in as soon as you confirm your pregnancy, Dr Hatzikostas is very popular and leaving it too late may mean he cannot fit you in as a patient. If you are actively trying to get pregnant then we also offer a free meet and greet where you can get to know Dr Hatzikostas, making the selection of an obstetrician in Bundoora easier.
The initial consultation involves a comprehensive health check, including:
- Blood pressure measurement
- Weight and height assessment
- Urine test to check for urinary tract infections
- Blood tests to determine blood group, and rhesus factor, and screen for various conditions
Dr Hatzikostas providers also calculate the due date and may schedule a dating scan if necessary.
Early Pregnancy Scans
Ultrasound scans play a crucial role in early pregnancy care. And if at any stage you are worried Dr Hatzikostas encourages his patients to call his clinic so he can book you in for further investigation. Keeping a mother’s stress levels down is important – even if it’s just a reassuring scan to check on the baby’s heartbeat. Towards the end of the first trimester, you can typically offer an ultrasound scan. This scan serves multiple 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 concerns include:
- Morning sickness (which can occur at any time of day)
- Constipation
- Food cravings and aversions
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue and difficulty sleeping
Dr Hatzikostas provides guidance on managing these symptoms and maintaining overall health during pregnancy. They discuss 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
Routine Check-ups
During the second and third trimesters, expectant mothers in Bundoora can expect regular check-ups to monitor their health and the baby’s development. These appointments 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 station 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.
Ultrasound scans play a vital role in assessing foetal growth and well-being. In the third trimester, a foetal growth scan is often recommended. This scan estimates the baby’s weight, assesses the amount of amniotic fluid, checks the baby’s position, and evaluates the placenta’s condition. It also examines the umbilical cord and its blood flow, providing insights into the baby’s overall health and vitality.
Preparing for Labour
As the due date approaches, Dr Hatzikostas helps expectant mothers prepare for labour. Discussing the stages of labour, including the second stage, which begins at full cervical dilatation (10cm) and ends with the birth of the baby. Dr Hatzikostas also discusses the third stage of labour, which involves the delivery of the placenta and membranes and explains the benefits of active management of this stage to reduce the risk of postpartum haemorrhage. Throughout this period, Dr Hatzikostas aims to maintain a private, calming environment, being sensitive to the woman’s emotional and psychological needs.
Labour, Delivery, and Beyond
Birth Plan Creation
Creating a birth plan helps expectant mothers communicate their preferences. It outlines desired positions for giving birth, pain relief options, and who should be present during delivery. While it’s essential to be flexible, as births don’t always go as planned, a well-crafted birth plan can ensure that the most important aspects are clearly communicated.
Pain Management Options
Labour is typically a painful experience, and women’s responses vary. Some prefer to avoid medical interventions, while others are open to all available options. Pain management techniques include:
Non-medical methods:
- Breathing techniques
- Support from a partner or loved one
- Distractions like music
- Hot or cold packs, massage, and warm baths
Medical options:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)\
- Pethidine injections
- Epidural anaesthesia
Postpartum Support
The 4th trimester begins after the birth and Dr Hatzikostas will see you in the hospital whilst you recover and then for a 6-week check-up. This check-up is important to make sure your body is healing and your health is well.
Dr. Hatzikostas provides exceptional support throughout every stage of your pregnancy journey. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and experience the unparalleled care and dedication that Dr. Hatzikostas and his team offer at Northpark Private Hospital.
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