Birthcare is Auckland District Health Board's primary birthing unit for birthing as well as postnatal care. Birthcare is suitable for women who want a natural birth and is designed for those with no complications during pregnancy. Birthcare does not have obstetricians or operating theatres on site for epidurals, caesarean sections or specialised care. Should complications arise, you will be safely transferred to Auckland City Hospital.
If you need more help deciding where to give birth, visit our page on choosing where to birth.
Birthcare's team of midwives strive to promote and empower natural birth. You will also need to have your own LMC if you've chosen to birth at Birthcare.
Before you go to Birthcare to give birth, be sure to check out our frequently asked questions and visit the Birthcare website(external link). They will help you and your support person understand what to expect and what to do when you arrive at Birthcare in labour.
Should complications arise during labour at Birthcare, you may be sent to Auckland City Hospital. Should this happen, and you and your baby are well following birth, you will be sent to back to Birthcare for your postnatal care.
For more on what to expect after birth as well as when you go home, see our section on care after birth.
Please be sure to bring a carseat with you to transport your baby.
Birthcare is located at 20 Titoki Street in Parnell, less than a five-minute drive from Auckland City Hospital.