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betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
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Conception, pregnancy and birth

Everything you need to know about the pregnancy journey, from conception through to birth.

Conception and early pregnancy

How do you know if you are pregnant or what to do once you are? Learn more about early pregnancy and the services and support available.

Woman holding paper uterus

Conceiving a baby

Most women under the age of 40 years who want to become pregnant (conceive) will achieve this within 12 months of starting to try. Here we explain how you can improve your chances of pregnancy.

Hands holding a pair of baby booties

Pregnancy - signs and symptoms

All women experience pregnancy differently, and you will experience different symptoms at different stages of your pregnancy.

Person holding a positive pregnancy test

Pregnancy testing

Find out how to accurately test for pregnancy and what the results mean.

Woman sitting on sofa

Contraception - choices

There are many contraceptive options available. Their level of effectiveness and the way they work varies.

Woman at doctor consultation

Abortion in Victoria

Abortion is a safe and legal medical procedure in Victoria. Contacting a service earlier in a pregnancy will minimise procedure costs and maximise your options.

Ovarian cancer tile

Age and fertility

Age affects the fertility of both men and women, and is the single biggest factor affecting a woman's chance to conceive and have a healthy baby.

Pregnancy journey and birth

Read about the pregnancy journey including week-by-week changes, pregnancy and diet, and preparing for labour.

Calendar with hourglass half empty sitting in front of it.

Pregnancy - week by week

Pregnancy is counted as 40 weeks. Discover a week-by-week guide of what to expect.

Photo of a pregnancy health check

Pregnancy stages and changes

It's helpful to have an idea of how your body may react to the different stages of pregnancy.

Pregnant woman holding salad bowl

Pregnancy and diet

Good nutrition during pregnancy can help to keep you and your developing baby healthy.

Female sonographer performing an ultrasound

Pregnancy and birth services

Involving health services early and understanding your childbirth options will give you the best chance of a successful and rewarding birth experience.

Pregnant woman on sofa looking at laptop

Medical terms and definitions during pregnancy and birth

Like all areas of medicine, pregnancy and childbirth has a number of specialised terms, many of which you will hear during your own pregnancy and labour, and the birth of your baby.

Parent holding a baby after birth

Labour

Labour is divided into 3 stages. Discover how to prepare for it and recognise the signs.

Women's sexual and reproductive health

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Find out some facts about women's sexual and reproductive health - including fertility, contraception, menopause, parental consent and conditions (such as PCOS and endometriosis).

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Reviewed on: 11-04-2023