Pregnancy FAQs

When should you be scheduling your first prenatal appointment?

Ideally, your first visit should occur between 8 and 10 weeks of pregnancy. If you are outside this timeframe, contact Dr Kelly Hankins’ office to see if she is still accepting new patients.

How often will I see my doctor?

From 8 to 28 weeks, you will typically have appointments every 4 weeks.
From 28 to 36 weeks, visits are every 2 weeks.
From 36 weeks until delivery, you will see your doctor weekly.
Please note that this is a general guideline and your individual schedule may vary depending on your specific needs.

Dr Kelly Hankins | Obstetrician & Gynaecologist | North Gosford

Where will I deliver my baby?

Do I need a referral from my GP?

COVID-19 vaccination and pregnancy

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) and the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recommend that pregnant women get the Pfizer mRNA vaccine (Comirnaty). You can receive the vaccine at any stage of your pregnancy.
Pregnant women are at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19.
There is no evidence of significant safety concerns regarding mRNA vaccines during pregnancy.
Vaccination can also protect your baby by passing antibodies through the umbilical cord and breast milk.
If you are considering pregnancy, you do not need to delay vaccination or avoid getting pregnant after being vaccinated.

More information

For more information on COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy, visit the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) website Australian government website on COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy

https://ranzcog.edu.au/news/covid-19-vaccination-when-pregnant-or-breastfeeding-and-for-those-planning-pregnancy/

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

This optional blood test can be performed as early as 10 weeks of pregnancy to screen for chromosomal abnormalities in your baby, such as Down syndrome. It's a safe and convenient option compared to traditional prenatal diagnostic tests.

What to expect:

A simple blood draw will be performed at your doctor's office.
Results are typically available within 3-5 business days.
Your doctor will contact you to discuss the results, which may include the sex of your baby if you choose to find out.

Important notes:

NIPT is a screening test, not a definitive diagnosis. A positive result indicates an increased chance of a chromosomal abnormality, but further testing may be needed for confirmation.
Talk to your doctor about NIPT to determine if it's right for you. They can answer any questions you may have and discuss the benefits and limitations of the test.

Can I get the flu vaccine during pregnancy?

Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy?

When should I have the whooping cough vaccine?

When does morning sickness stop?

How much weight should I gain during pregnancy?

Can I travel during pregnancy?

I haven't felt the baby move as much as yesterday, what do I do?

Is it safe to have sex when I'm pregnant?

Is it safe to do dental work during pregnancy?

Using hair dye when you're pregnant

It's generally recommended to avoid chemical hair treatments during the first trimester of pregnancy. If you choose to colour your hair, consider waiting until the second trimester. You can minimise potential risks by using gloves, working in a well-ventilated area, and thoroughly rinsing your scalp afterwards. Highlighting and using semi-permanent vegetable dyes like henna are generally considered safer alternatives.

Cancellation Policy

We kindly request that you provide at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel your appointment. This allows us to offer the slot to another patient requiring care.

Dr Kelly Hankins values your time and aims to provide the best possible care. If you have any questions or require further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact the clinic. Dr Kelly Hankins looks forward to seeing you at your upcoming appointment.

How to get here

Parking
Undercover parking for patients is available on site by pressing button 6 and then the bell on the entry keypad. There is lift access from the carpark and we are located on level one.

Endometriosis | Fertility Surgery | Periods with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome | Dr Kelly Hankins | Obstetrician & Gynaecologist | North Gosford

Book a Consultation

We always offer the earliest available appointment, and prioritise urgent patients to provide the best possible care.

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