Antenatal consultations

The aim of these consultations is to provide families with information and answer their questions about Spina Bifida. Generally, they occur from week 18-22 of  pregnancy after a referral from an obstetrician.

 The consultation is provided by the paediatric rehabilitation specialist and the social worker. 

The medical specialist will talk about

• what Spina Bifida is
• how and when in the development of the foetus Spina Bifida occurs 
• likely effect on the child’s overall development including mobility, learning and other medical issues

Information about functional and developmental impacts is only an indicator and is based on an early ultrasound scan.

The social worker can 

• advise on social and emotional aspects of raising a child with a disability
• provide information about economic and social supports available in the community to assist with parenting
• the social worker is available for supportive counselling as well.

Some parents may feel overwhelmed with the information provided at the consultation and the  possible details of a big life change.

Parents are encouraged to make contact with the service to clarify and ask any further questions they may have.

The service is available to support families to better understand Spina Bifida and the possible impact on their lives.

The obstetrician or clinician will have picked up some findings on the ultrasound suggestive of Spina Bifida. They will make a referral to the Spina Bifida service for a consultation.