Managing the unexpected
Sometimes pregnancy brings unexpected findings or complications.
Many are mild or manageable while others may require more support or consideration. Support is always available. If there are unexpected findings or complications, your maternity care team will explain what this means for you and your baby and help you decide what’s right for your situation.
Your baby's growth and development
When to seek help – Second and third trimesters
Symptoms that need urgent medical advice
Get urgent help straight away if you notice any of the following in your second and third trimesters:
Birth education classes
Birth education classes (or ‘antenatal classes’) can help you learn what to expect during labour, birth and the first few weeks at home with your baby. This might help you feel more prepared and confident for birth and early parenting.
Classes cover a range of topics including:
Parental leave
Parental leave is a general term that covers workplace rights (leave entitlements) and government payments.
Some employers also offer paid leave on top of government payments.
Types of parental leave
Unpaid parental leave
Unpaid parental leave is a legal workplace right.
Unpaid parental leave applies to:
Getting ready for labour and birth
Share your birth and care preferences
You may wish to start thinking about your preferences for birth and care. Think about what matters most to you and share this with your maternity care provider.
You can always:
Planning and key decisions for labour, birth and early parenthood
As you move closer to birth, there are a few practical, health and personal considerations you may want to plan or organise.
You may want to:
Tests, checks and vaccinations in your second and third trimesters
Routine care
Routine antenatal checks are ongoing assessments at each pregnancy appointment to monitor the health of you and your baby. This often includes checking: