Midwifery Group Practice
Midwifery Group Practice (MGP) allows women and families having a baby to be cared for by a known midwife throughout their pregnancy, during labour and birth, and postnatally. A midwife or small team of midwives will provide your primary care with medical practitioner.
What are the benefits of MGP?
Having a known midwife care for you can have great outcomes for you and your baby, including:
- greater birth satisfaction for you and your partner
- safer birth outcomes for your baby
- better breastfeeding outcomes
- more chance of a natural delivery with less need for epidurals, inductions and caesarean sections
- more successful vaginal births after a caesarean section
- shorter stay in hospital post delivery
- better prevention and support for postnatal depression.
How will I be cared for through MGP?
Primary midwife care can start from when you are 14-16 weeks pregnant. This care is provided throughout your pregnancy including labour and birth, and postnatal care after your baby is born.
Your antenatal appointments with your midwife will take place in your home or at a clinic. You will also see a doctor during your pregnancy as part of your holistic care plan.
Can I join the MGP program?
Usually, you need to be less than 32 weeks pregnant and eligible for Medicare (external site) cover to enrol in this program. However, if you aren’t, contact the relevant service to check if you are still able to access the service. You will also need to be attending a hospital or health service where MGP is available.
Where is MGP available?
Each health service or hospital has their own guidelines about eligibility.
Where to get help
Remember
- If you think you are pregnant, visit your GP.
- There are lots of care choices for your pregnancy which you can talk about with your GP.
- Once you decide on the type of care you want, your GP will give you a referral letter and contact information.
Acknowledgements
Women and Newborns Health Network
This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.