Question 1

What is the Fourth Trimester, and why is support important?

Accepted Answer

The Fourth Trimester was originally coined by Paediatrician Harvey Karp, M.D in 2002, referring to the first 12 weeks after birth. This time in the perinatal period is also known as postpartum, or postnatal period. It’s time of major physical recovery from birth – (whichever way your bubby enters the world), emotional adjustment, and most importantly newborn bonding. Having support during this period can help you feel more confident, informed, and nurtured as you navigate the early days of parenthood.

Question 2

What services does Midwife Michelle offer?

Accepted Answer

Michelle provides clinically trained compassionate, individualised support for the whole family. This may include feeding support, help understanding your babies cues, sleep and settling guidance, postnatal check-ins including checking surgical wounds and breast care, emotional wellbeing checks, and education tailored to your unique needs as a new family.

Question 3

Can you help with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding support?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Michelle is a qualified Endorsed Midwife with a wealth of feeding experience from over 14 years. Michelle offers evidence-based guidance for breastfeeding, expressing breast milk and bottle-feeding, helping you find what works best for you, your baby and your unique family situation. Michelle offers gentle reassurance and practical feeding support, however she is not a Lactation Consultant and will refer you to one if more specialised help is needed. Should a situation arise where medication is required, Michelle can prescribe this for you.

Question 4

What happens during a postnatal visit in your home?

Accepted Answer

A postnatal visit focuses on both your recovery and your baby’s health. During these personalised sessions, Michelle may review your babies feeding, check in on your healing, discuss newborn behaviour, respond to your questions, and offer emotional guidance as you adjust to life with your little one. Telehealth appointments are also available if you prefer or you are outside the ‘catchment’ area. Scheduled phone calls are also available.

Question 5

Do you support all family types and parenting journeys?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Michelle’s practice is inclusive of all families - single parents, partnered couples, LGBTQIA+ families, and gestational surrogates with intended parents. Everyone is welcome and supported with respect and care.

Question 6

How will our appointments work?

Accepted Answer

You can connect with Michelle in whichever way feels right for you - in-home visits, Telehealth appointments, scheduled phone calls- or a combination of all of these.

Question 7

How do I claim each appointment?

Accepted Answer

Medicare rebates are available for eligible postnatal appointments for up to 8 weeks after birth. As an endorsed midwife, Michelle will provide an invoice for you to claim directly through Medicare.

Question 8

When should I reach out for support?

Accepted Answer

Anytime. It’s ideal to plan ahead during pregnancy so we can organise your postnatal support, but please don’t worry if your baby has already arrived, Michelle is here to help. Whether you're preparing, freshly home from hospital, or deep in newborn life, reach out whenever you need guidance or reassurance.

Question 9

Are your postnatal care services eligible for Medicare rebates?

Accepted Answer

The Medicare Benefits Schedule provides rebates for antenatal and postnatal consultations within 6 weeks of birth, whether in person or via Telehealth, when you have a valid Medicare card. Your Medicare card details are secure and confidential at all times and only used in the Services Australia Health Professional Online Services (HPOS) portal.

Question 10

Where do you travel?

Accepted Answer

Michelle regularly visits families across Melbourne’s CBD, inner north, inner south and inner east as well as surrounding suburbs. For families located outside these suburbs, a travel fee will apply - please reach out to discuss your location. If you are outside Melbourne or beyond our travel range, Telehealth midwifery services are available Australia-wide.

Click on the Google Map link below to see the areas we currently visit.

Question 11

Are you able to prescribe and administer scheduled medicines?

Accepted Answer

As an authorised PBS prescriber, I am able to prescribe and administer scheduled medicines, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and pain relief. In Victoria, the medicines that approved midwives can prescribe are regulated under the Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 and are listed in section 94 of the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law.

WE KNOW YOU WILL HAVE A millionQUESTIONS.

We’ve gathered the most commonly asked questions from our mums-to-be, creating a gentle guide to support you through this beautiful time of your life. Our hope is that these FAQ'S bring clarity, comfort, and confidence as you prepare for the incredible journey ahead.

Faq's

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Midwife Michelle

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