Pregnancy FAQ
Private Obstetric Care Sydney North Shore
Pregnancy FAQ with Dr David Krones
Dr David Krones is a specialist obstetrician providing private pregnancy care in Sydney’s North Shore. He delivers at the Mater Hospital and North Shore Private Hospital, offering personalised, evidence-based care throughout pregnancy, birth and postnatal recovery.
This page answers common questions about pregnancy care, private obstetrics and what to expect during your pregnancy journey.
Booking & Early Pregnancy
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Once you have a positive pregnancy test, it is recommended to see your GP at your first convenience. This will allow your GP to complete your antenatal blood tests and your pregnancy dating scan (usually around 6-9 weeks gestation). You are encouraged to make an appointment with our practice during this time as well. Your first obstetrics appointment is then usually at around 10 weeks gestation. Early care allows time for first trimester screening, planning and ensuring your pregnancy is progressing as expected.
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Yes. A GP referral is required to see a private obstetrician in Australia. This allows you to access Medicare rebates for antenatal care.
You can contact our rooms before you have a referral and make an appointment but you will need to be able to provide a referral before your first consultation.
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You can book by contacting the rooms directly via phone (02 9053 1245), email (admin@drdavidkrones.com.au) or enquiry form. Early booking is recommended due to limited appointment availability, particularly in the first trimester.
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Your first appointment (usually 45-60min) includes a detailed review of your medical history, discussion of your pregnancy and planning for your care going forward.
We will also discuss early pregnancy screening, arrange any required blood tests or ultrasound referrals and answer any questions you may have. The focus is on ensuring you feel informed, supported and confident from the outset.
We also get to know each other. I want you and your partner to feel comfortable on this journey that we embark on together and trust and comfort are the most important ingredient for this.
Private Pregnancy Care Explained
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Private obstetric care means you are cared for by the same specialist throughout your entire pregnancy, labour and delivery. This provides continuity, consistency and personalised decision-making.
In contrast to shared hospital care models, you will have direct access to your obstetrician across your entire pregnancy journey.
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Yes. One of the key benefits of private care is continuity. You will see Dr Krones for all antenatal visits and he will also be your obstetrician at your delivery.
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Dr Krones delivers private patients at:
Mater Hospital
North Shore Private Hospital
Both hospitals offer high-quality maternity services with experienced obstetric, midwifery and neonatal teams.
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Antenatal care includes regular pregnancy check-ups including a bedside ultrasound of your baby, monitoring of maternal and fetal wellbeing, coordination of ultrasound scans and review of screening results.
Each visit also includes time to discuss your questions, preferences and birth planning.
Pregnancy Safety & High-Risk Care
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A pregnancy may be considered high-risk if there are maternal or fetal factors that require closer monitoring.
Common examples include:
Gestational diabetes
High blood pressure or pre-eclampsia
Multiple pregnancy (twins or more)
Pre-existing medical conditions
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High-risk pregnancies are managed with closer monitoring, more frequent reviews and coordinated hospital care. The goal is early detection and proactive management of complications to optimise outcomes for mother and baby.
Birth & Delivery
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Birth planning is individualised. Vaginal birth is generally recommended where safe but caesarean section may be planned or recommended depending on your medical situation and preferences.
All options are discussed openly so you can make informed decisions.
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If you are a private patient, Dr Krones will be involved in your labour and delivery at your chosen hospital. Care is coordinated with experienced midwives and hospital staff to ensure safe, supportive care.
Costs & Private Care
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Costs vary depending on Medicare rebates and your private health insurance.
Most antenatal visits attract Medicare rebates, while hospital and anaesthetic fees depend on your insurer and policy.
A detailed explanation of expected fees is provided prior to your first appointment so you can make an informed financial decisions without surprises.
After Birth
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Postnatal care focuses on recovery after birth, emotional wellbeing, feeding support and adjustment to early parenthood.
Follow-up ensures both mother and baby are progressing well and any concerns are addressed early.