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01 May 2021... This fact sheet explains the possible health effects of IVF (in vitro fertilisation) and ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection). Ask your doctor about the best options for you.

01 Dec 2019... This resource summarises what to bring to the hospital when having a baby. This is essential to ensure women are prepared in advance of what they need to organise so they and their partner or support person feel prepared and that their hospital stay is as comfortable as possible with all they need.

01 Jun 2025... This translated NDSS fact sheet provides information on gestational diabetes in women who are pregnant. It explains who is at risk, why and how to manage gestational diabetes and the importance of healthy eating and physical exercise and other pregnancy related information on gestational diabetes.

07 Dec 2021... A video which explains what gestational diabetes is, and how to best look after yourself.

17 Mar 2025... If you have recently been diagnosed with gestational diabetes (GDM), you probably have a lot of questions. This short video will step you through the most up-to-date information about diet and GDM before you see the dietitian and diabetes educator.

31 Oct 2023... This information booklet is about preventing stillbirth. Talking about ways to reduce the chance of stillbirth is a normal part of pregnancy care. The booklet includes information on 5 things you can do to help reduce your chance of stillbirth: Reducing your and your baby’s exposure to cigarette smoke Working together with your health professionals to check your baby’s growth Learning your baby’s movements and letting your health professionals know if your baby’s movements stop or slow down Sleeping on your side once you reach 28 weeks of pregnancy Talking with your midwife or doctor about the best timing for your baby’s birth

19 Aug 2024... Domestic and family violence is when a person like a partner or family member uses power and control to dominate or hurt you.  It can happen in many forms, like physical harm, insults, tracking your movements, breaking your things, or cutting you off from your friends.  For some women, domestic and family violence begins during their pregnancy, or this can be a time when it gets worse. Sometimes abuse is aimed at your unborn baby which can affect the wellbeing of you both.  You deserve to live free from control, violence, and fear. Watch this video to learn more about domestic and family violence, and how you can seek and receive help.

01 Dec 2020... If you have diabetes, preparing for a healthy pregnancy starts with getting the right information.  Although there are extra risks during pregnancy, you can have a healthy baby. With careful planning, and support from your diabetes care team, you can reduce your risks.   Diabetes Australia have important information for women with diabetes of child-bearing age who speak languages other than English and are planning a pregnancy. These resources have been developed as part of the Diabetes Education in Pregnancy program funded by Central and Eastern Sydney PHN.

30 Jul 2025... This video contains information about pregnancy options. Unplanned pregnancies are common. If you live in Victoria and have an unplanned pregnancy, you can choose to:  Continue the pregnancy and provide care for the baby  Continue the pregnancy and choose alternative care arrangements, or  End the pregnancy by having an abortion.  Everyone has the right to make their own decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health. You should never feel pressured or forced to do something you do not want to do, even if there is pressure from a loved one, a friend or a health professional.  Within Australia, abortion is a legal, safe and a common medical procedure, used to end a pregnancy. In Victoria, you can have an abortion up to 24 weeks of pregnancy, and in certain situations beyond this. Please note that abortions are time-sensitive and may be more difficult and expensive to access the longer your pregnancy progresses.  In rural and regional areas like the Loddon Mallee, it can be difficult to find information about your options. You may also be worried about confidentiality and personally knowing the staff or practitioners. We recommend contacting 1800myoptions to find an appropriate provider located near you. Interpreter services are available. Your doctor may also be able to recommend an abortion service for you to access. 

05 Nov 2024... This multilingual poster, part of the Australian Government’s national health campaign, encourages expectant parents to quit smoking and vaping to avoid harm to their unborn child. Visit the " Give Up for Good" campaign page for more information and to access more resources. 

04 Aug 2025... This fact sheet provides information to consumers on the maternal respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine and infant RSV immunisation products, including: eligibility for the free maternal RSV vaccine RSV vaccination timing RSV Immunisation products provided through State and Territory programs Where to get the maternal RSV vaccine or immunisation product reporting the vaccine to the Australian Immunisation Register.

01 Aug 2020... It is common for the perineum to tear during a vaginal birth. Most often a tear will simply need to be stitched and will heal well, others will need more attention and time to heal. This information gives advice about how to care for yourself after a third or fourth degree tear.

13 Apr 2022... This video by Multicultural Centre for Women's Health explains how pregnancy begins, what effects your chances of getting pregnant and an overview of the female reproductive system.  It is part of a series about periods, pregnancy, and contraception. This video provides general information only. It is important to seek advice from a health professional regarding your individual circumstances. 

01 Mar 2022... This information is for pregnant or postnatal women who have a DRAM (Diastasis Rectus Abdominis Muscle). It explains what DRAM is, how it can affect you and what you can do to help it recover. 

30 Jun 2023... This patient information sheet explains gestational diabetes (GDM) and the importance of diet in managing this condition. It also includes culturally specific information for women from Arabic, Chinese, Persian, Somalian and Vietnamese backgrounds.

01 Aug 2019... The Newborn Intensive and Special Care (NISC) nurseries at the Women's provide the best possible care for babies. To maintain the highest level of care we are continually updating our practice by carrying out careful research studies.

01 Aug 2019... You have been given this factsheet because your baby has been born with genitals that look a bit different (atypical). These genital differences are sometimes referred to as 'intersex variations', 'differences of sex development' or 'variations in sex characteristics'. This fact sheet provides information for families to fully understand the issues and risks associated with your child's specific intersex variation in order to make informed decisions about their best care and treatment.

Breastfeeding and childcare provides information for both parents and childcare providers, and outlines the rights of mother and baby regarding breastfeeding and childcare.

06 Aug 2024... Picture cards with illustrations to explain breastfeeding positions to try for comfort and attachment. Suitable for 0-3 months.

01 Apr 2018... There are a number of things that you can do before you get pregnant, and in the early weeks, to encourage a healthy pregnancy. Taking care of yourself in early pregnancy is very important. Read this fact sheet for tips to show you how.

01 Oct 2021... PANDA offers free counselling support for expecting and new parents. Pregnancy and welcoming a new baby come with joy as well as challenges. If you are having a difficult time, don't be afraid to seek help. You are not alone; PANDA is here to support your mental wellbeing.

01 Sep 2018... Jaundice in newborn babies is a yellow colouration of the skin and the whites of the eyes. Visible jaundice occurs in one third to a half of normal newborn babies. It usually does not cause problems and generally fades by the end of the first week after birth. If the jaundice appears within 24 hours of birth, or is still present after 2 weeks, contact your doctor or local hospital.

01 Aug 2019... You have been given this fact sheet because your baby or child has been diagnosed as having a variation in sex characteristics. This means your child was born with naturally occurring characteristics that do not fit the typical definitions for male or female bodies. These differences are also sometimes referred to as 'intersex variations', 'differences of sex development' or 'conditions associated with reproductive development'. Different people prefer different terms.

This brochure provides an overview of the most common techniques involved with assisted reproductive technology (ART), including IVF, artificial insemination, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).

01 Aug 2022... This brochure provides evidence-based information about the effects of drinking alcohol during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, when planning a pregnancy and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

28 Jun 2022... Monash Health has developed fact sheets about looking after yourself and your baby. It includes information on your health in the first six weeks after giving birth, info on your newborn baby and caring for your baby.

31 Oct 2023... Safer Baby has developed cultural adaptations of their information bundle for Arabic, Dari, Dinka and Karen speaking communities. Each adaptation's webpage contains resources for women, their families and healthcare teams to reduce the chance of stillbirth. It includes English translations for English-speaking healthcare professionals to know what they are sharing.

31 Mar 2024... When you’re pregnant it’s important to choose your food carefully. This resource has information on which foods are safe to eat and which should be avoided. The chart at the end provides more detailed information on foods in each food group.  

01 May 2021... This fact sheet describes fertility treatment options. Ask your doctor about the best options for you.

01 Jul 2022... This brochure provides information about whooping cough (pertussis) vaccination in pregnancy. You can get vaccinated for free when pregnant.

30 Jun 2024... This fact sheet explains breast and nipple thrush, a yeast infection caused by the fungus called Candida albicans. Breast and nipple thrush can be painful. You can get help so you can keep breastfeeding.

30 Aug 2023... If you do not want to conceive again soon after a pregnancy, or your doctor has advised you to delay your next pregnancy for medical reasons, it is important to choose an effective method of contraception.  Contraception is also called birth control or family planning.

01 Jan 2021... It covers the basics of breastfeeding, how and when to feed the baby, explains the normal breast changes and what is not normal when breastfeeding. The resource also provides the contact numbers on where to get help when needed.

31 Mar 2020... This information is about what happens when it is certain that you have had, or are going to have a miscarriage.

07 Jan 2019... An introductory video explaining how pregnancy begins, what effects your chances of getting pregnant, your options, and an overview of the female reproductive system.

04 Jun 2021... A translated NDSS fact sheet that advises women with type 1 and type 2 diabetes on the best preparation for a healthy pregnancy before falling pregnant. It advises on contraception, planning for pregnancy, being pregnant with diabetes and unplanned pregnancy. It also includes a pregnancy planning checklist.

01 May 2017... This translated 16 page booklet is for mothers who are starting to breastfeed. In it you will find information on how to get started and how to avoid common problems.

16 Apr 2020... This poster explains that if a mother has syphilis during pregnancy, her baby could be born with syphilis or even die. Pregnant women should get tested for syphilis to prevent this.

12 Dec 2019... The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is recommended for screening for depression in the antenatal and postnatal periods. The following translations have been linguistically validated (forward and back translations) by Western Sydney Local Health District Translation Services. Please be aware that scores used to identify possible depression in migrant and refugee women are generally lower than those used in the general Australian population. Use the following guide for screening: The EPDS is a screening tool not a diagnostic one and designed to identify those who require a more comprehensive mental health assessment. Complete the first antenatal screening as early as practical in pregnancy and repeat screening at least once later in pregnancy. Complete the first postnatal screening 6-12 weeks after birth and repeat screening at least once in the first postnatal year. For a woman with an EPDS score between 10 and 12, monitor and repeat in 2-4 weeks as the score may change subsequently. Arrange further assessment of perinatal women with an EPDS score of 13 or more. For a woman with a positive score on Question 10, undertake or arrange immediate further mental health assessment, and if there is any disclosure of suicidal ideation, take urgent action in accordance with local protocol. Use appropriate antenatal or postnatal NSW Health forms.

01 Feb 2021... This information sheet for women is about perineal tearing during childbirth. It explains what can be done to reduce the risk of a third or fourth degree perineal tear.

01 Feb 2021... If you have a third or fourth degree perineal tear during childbirth, this information sheet will help you understand the treatment and follow-up care you should receive to support your recovery.

01 Nov 2019... Learn about pregnancy care, where to give birth and the costs involved.

Easy English book about your choices when you get pregnant.

01 Dec 2021... A fact sheet about breastfeeding with illustrations.

09 Jan 2020... If you have diabetes, preparing for a healthy pregnancy starts with getting the right information.  Although there are extra risks during pregnancy, you can have a healthy baby. With careful planning, and support from your diabetes care team, you can reduce your risks.   Diabetes Australia have important information for women with diabetes of child-bearing age who speak languages other than English and are planning a pregnancy. These resources have been developed as part of the Diabetes Education in Pregnancy program funded by Central and Eastern Sydney PHN.

22 May 2019... Information with tips on how to get pregnant and stay healthy during pregnancy.

10 Oct 2024... The animations explain how to have a healthier pregnancy and reduce risk of stillbirth. They are based on the Stillbirth Centre of Research Excellence Safer Baby Bundle resources. The Social Policy Group has developed 5 short reels covering 5 different key areas and translated them into 20 community languages.

01 Aug 2018... Preeclampsia is an illness that occurs during or immediately after pregnancy. It can affect both the mother and the baby.

01 May 2021... A translated fact sheet about 'morning sickness' that can occur at any time of the day. The cause is unknown although it has been linked to changes in the levels of various hormones during pregnancy. This fact sheet describes what it is, what can be done to help it, some suggestions to reduce the severity of your symptoms, and foods to try. It also includes information about hyperemesis.

03 Dec 2021... If you are breastfeeding, it's recommended you get vaccinated against COVID-19 at any time. The World Health Organisation also encourages women to continue breastfeeding after vaccination - as some research suggests that antibodies can pass through breastmilk and protect babies against COVID-19.

01 Oct 2018... What is preeclampsia, the symptoms, how it affects mother and baby, cure/treatments and where you can find further information.

01 Aug 2017... Newborn babies often appear to have a yellowish tinge to their skin. This is called jaundice. It happens when a chemical called bilirubin builds up in the baby's blood and tissues. In most babies jaundice is a normal event and not serious. It will nearly always disappear gradually within days without the need for any special treatment.

This factsheet is a guide to a healthy pregnancy. It provides advice on a healthy lifestyle, vitamin & mineral supplementation, medications, immunisations, blood tests, health check-ups, family history, social situation and mental health.

30 May 2025... This fact sheet explains what to expect after an epidural or spinal anaesthetic, including side effects and when to contact the hospital. 

01 Oct 2019... Is shisha harmful to me, my baby or my young children? YES! Shisha smoke is toxic. It contains chemicals, including carbon monoxide and tar, which are bad for your health and those around you. Smoking shisha can lead to problems in your pregnancy. It can also harm your baby and young children.

01 Feb 2021... Preparing formula and sterilising bottles fact sheet provides important information for mothers who choose to formula feed.

21 Mar 2021... Self-care strategies for parents and caregivers of young children to help them stay in good physical and mental health, including information on exercise, sleep, diet and mental health.

12 Sep 2022... Information on perinatal depression and anxiety (PNDA), including who can get it, what to look out for, postnatal psychosis, effective treatment and where to get help.

01 Sep 2019... This booklet is for people who have an unplanned pregnancy and are unsure of what to do.

12 Dec 2019... The Edinburgh Depression Scale - Antenatal is recommended for screening for depression in the antenatal and postnatal periods. The following translations have been linguistically validated (forward and back translations) by Western Sydney Local Health District Translation Services. Please be aware that scores used to identify possible depression in migrant and refugee women are generally lower than those used in the general Australian population. Use the following guide for screening: The Edinburgh Depression Scale - Antenatal is a screening tool, not a diagnostic one, designed to identify those requiring a more comprehensive mental health assessment. Complete the first antenatal screening as early as practical in pregnancy and repeat screening at least once later in pregnancy. Complete the first postnatal screening 6-12 weeks after birth and repeat screening at least once in the first postnatal year. For a woman with an EPDS score between 10 and 12, monitor and repeat in 2-4 weeks as the score may change subsequently. Arrange further assessment of perinatal women with an EPDS score of 13 or more. For a woman with a positive score on Question 10, undertake or arrange immediate further mental health assessment, and if there is any disclosure of suicidal ideation, take urgent action in accordance with local protocol. Use appropriate antenatal or postnatal NSW Health forms.

03 Nov 2023... Culturally appropriate pregnancy resources for migrant and refugee women, developed from the evidence-based Safer Baby Bundle to improve maternity care for these communities and contribute to reducing stillbirth rates in Australia by 20 per cent. Resources have been co-designed with communities and healthcare professionals for Arabic, Dari, Dinka and Karen speaking communities. These resources are available for women and their families to either watch, listen to, or read.

24 Feb 2025... PANDA's online mental health checklist is designed specifically for new and expecting families. The checklist allows mums, dads, non-birth parents and family to self-assess how they are feeling and offers pathways to support where needed. It was translated in collaboration with each language group to ensure it is culturally sensitive. The checklist asks questions about possible symptoms of perinatal anxiety and depression, focusing on three key areas: physical and behavioural changes, thoughts and feelings, and relationships. 

07 May 2024... A flu vaccination while pregnant protects you and your newborn for their first 6 months. It’s also safe at every trimester and it’s free for pregnant women.

01 Oct 2022... The videos have been produced with support from 1800 My Options and The Victorian State Government to explain: your legal right to abortion in Victoria,  the types of abortion available,  how to get an abortion, and  who to contact.  For more information, or to find a service near you, call 1800 My Options (1800 696 784) or visit www.1800myoption.org.au .

01 Aug 2020... After the birth of your baby, you may have difficulty emptying your bladder or have changes to the normal urge to pass urine. If the bladder is not emptying properly then the urine that is left behind can build up over time, this is known as Urinary Retention.

01 Aug 2018... Sometimes it is necessary to help a women to start her labour using artificial methods. This is called induction of labour. This information may help you and your family make a choice about induction of labour and to answer some of the questions you may have.

30 May 2018... This translated information is for women having an epidural during labour. It explains what an epidural is, why you are having one and how it is administered.

01 Apr 2018... There are a number of things that you can do before you get pregnant, and in the early weeks, to encourage a healthy pregnancy. Read this fact sheet for tips to help you in early pregnancy.

30 Apr 2018... A translated fact sheet outlines that it is quite normal to have a few discomforts in early pregnancy. Sometimes they can become quite severe, and you may need to talk to your doctor about what to do. This fact sheet includes common discomforts such as morning sickness, heartburn, cramps, vaginal thrush and other discomforts.

01 Oct 2019... Breastfeeding confidence is a quick guide on the essentials of breastfeeding.

01 Aug 2024... Fact sheets with information about how alcohol crosses the placenta, the risks of drinking during pregnancy (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), and advice for a healthy pregnancy.

This factsheet is to help understand more about antenatal or postnatal anxiety and depression concerns and where to go for further information and help.

12 Dec 2017... Healthy eating in pregnancy means lots of fruit, vegetables and foods with calcium, protein and iron. Avoid sugary, fatty foods, and drink plenty of water.

01 Oct 2017... This is part of a series of videos about periods, pregnancy and contraception, for newly arrived migrant and refugee women in Australia. This video provides general information, please speak to a health professional for appropriate individual advice.

01 Sep 2016... Genetic Alliance (GA) brochure describing what is a genetic condition and detailing the services we provide. Our aim is to facilitate support for those affected directly or indirectly by genetic conditions throughout Australasia. GA provide peer support to families and individuals affected by a genetic condition.

01 Jun 2016... This translated document describes what nocturia is and its causes, which include (but are not limited to) heart problems, kidney problems, and diabetes (type 1 and 2). It also covers issues with lowering intake of liquids, what a person should do and how it can be treated.

01 Nov 2016... The whooping cough vaccine given to the mother when she is pregnant is the best way to stop babies from getting whooping cough. This resource addresses common questions about the use of this vaccine in pregnant women.

01 Mar 2022... Reproductive coercion and abuse is a behaviour aimed at establishing power and control by interfering with a pregnant person’s reproductive autonomy, controlling and /or interfering with the person’s decision making and access to options regarding their reproductive health and reproductive choices.

14 Nov 2022... This resource answers some commonly asked questions about breastfeeding. Why is breastfeeding important? What rights do breastfeeding mothers have? What does it mean if someone cannot breastfeed? Where can I seek help about breastfeeding?

14 Nov 2022... This resource answers some commonly asked questions about pre-natal care. What is prenatal care? Why is prenatal care important? What happens at prenatal visits? What are the benefits of prenatal care?

13 Jun 2023... This video created for the Karen community, talks about what to do when you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. It covers topics such as: confirming your pregnancy, looking after your body, caring for your mental health, work and finances, what to expect at different stages of pregnancy, labour and birth, life with a new-born, and caring for your baby's health and development. See the transcript in English below.

17 Sep 2024... Information about antenatal appointments during pregnancy. Key points Antenatal appointments keep track of your health and your baby’s health during pregnancy. Antenatal appointments are a great time to ask questions, discuss concerns and get health and lifestyle support. It’s good if your partner, a friend or a family member can go with you to antenatal appointments.  

19 Jul 2023... This booklet is about preventing stillbirth. Talking about ways to reduce the chance of stillbirth is a normal part of pregnancy care – just as speaking about ways to help keep mum healthy are a normal part of pregnancy care. This translated booklet includes information about: Reducing your and your baby's exposure to cigarette smoke Working with health professionals to check your baby's growth Learning your baby's movements and informing health professionals if movements stop or slow down Sleeping on your side at 28 weeks of pregnancy Talking with your midwife or doctor about the best timing for birth

01 Apr 2021... Reducing third and fourth degree perineal tears information sheet. The information sheet aims to encourage shared decision making, informing women about their risk of a tear and what can be done to reduce their chance of experiencing a third or fourth degree tear. The information is designed to be given to women at an antenatal appointment between 30-36 weeks. It has been developed by a consumer working group with medical and midwifery input.

01 Jan 2020... Explanation for Group B streptococcal (GBS) in pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period. Includes information about the testing procedure at Mercy Health Services.

01 Jan 2025... Sometimes during late pregnancy changes may occur that can concern some women. Many of these concerns can be discussed with a midwife at their next clinic appointment however some may need immediate attention. This information explains when to call your hospital for more advice.

01 Aug 2019... This information sheet discusses the services and tests you may need before you attend hospital for your first antenatal care clinic appointment. It is aimed at women who will have their baby at the Royal Women's Hospital but has information that may be applicable to all pregnant women.

28 Jun 2018... This factsheet explains what choices you have if you have an unplanned pregnancy, in Easy English with a lot of illustrations.

01 Jun 2016... The document explains what is a vaginal (or pelvic organ) prolapse is.

01 Jun 2016... A translated resource for pregnant women who may be experiencing problems with bladder and bowel control. The resource covers information such as how to know when there is a problem, likelihood of getting bladder and bowel problems, having caesarean births and information on pelvic floor muscles.

01 Aug 2019... Some simple translated steps we recommend for after you have given birth. These will improve your postnatal recovery, including immediately after birth and longer term exercises and tips.

30 Jun 2024... This resource is for those who worry about their milk supply, especially in the early stages of breastfeeding. Some people might stop breastfeeding because they think they don’t have enough milk. But most of the time your body is making enough milk for your baby.

01 May 2018... This translated list is for women who are coming to the Royal Women's Hospital to have their baby, outlining what to bring with them.

01 Jun 2016... The document explains how to keep your pelvic floor muscles strong. The floor of the pelvis is made up of layers of muscle and other tissues. These layers stretch like a hammock from the tailbone at the back, to the pubic bone in front.

14 Jul 2022... Are you pregnant? Vaccination against COVID-19 is recommended at any stage of pregnancy. Pregnant women have a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 compared to the general population, and their babies have a higher risk of being born prematurely. Vaccination is the best way to reduce these risks.