Melbourne Maternal
Fetal Medicine
Specialised Individual Comprehensive Pregnancy Care
Specialist care for all women, including those with higher needs during pregnancy and birth
Every journey to parenthood is deeply personal. We’re here to walk alongside you, providing expert care, genuine compassion, and thoughtful support from pre-conception planning through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery.
Pre-pregnancy Counselling
- Genetic testing options
- Risk assessment and management plan
- Maternal health optimisation
All risk pregnancy management
- Twin pregnancies
- Monitoring maternal conditions
- Diabetes & hypertension management
advanced antenatal surveillance
- Fetal growth surveillance via ultrasound
- Fetal screening via NIPT
- Cervical surveillance
fetal and maternal interventions and therapy.
- Pre-term birth surveillance
- Management of unexpected pregnancy complications
- Fetal growth restriction management
Labor & Delivery Planning
- Collaborative birth planning
- Choice of delivery hospital
- Planning for delivery mode
Postpartum Care & Follow-Up
- Postpartum health & recovery
- Mental health & emotional support
- Future pregnancy planning
Dr Iniyaval Thevathasan
MBBS (Hons) FRANZCOG
CMFM DDU (O&G)
Melbourne Maternal Fetal Medicine is a private obstetric practice committed to providing exceptional maternity care for women with both uncomplicated pregnancies as well as the more complex or high risk.
Dr Ini Thevathasan is a certified Maternal Fetal Medicine subspecialist and also holds a Diploma of Diagnostic Ultrasound, enabling her to deliver highly specialised, comprehensive care that is thoughtfully personalised to each woman’s individual circumstances.
She provides care at St Vincent’s Private Hospital, Frances Perry House, and Epworth Freemasons.
Clinic & Delivery Hospital Locations
- MMFM CLINIC
St Vincent’s Private Hospital
- DELIVERY HOSPITAL
Epworth Freemasons
- DELIVERY HOSPITAL
Frances Perry House
- MMFM CLINIC
St Vincent’s Private Hospital
- DELIVERY HOSPITAL
Epworth Freemasons
- DELIVERY HOSPITAL
Frances Perry House
Your pregnancy journey with Dr Ini.
Your first antenatal visit is typically scheduled between 8 to 10 weeks’ gestation. At this visit, Dr Ini will take the time to review your medical history, and tailor a pregnancy care plan to suit your individual needs. You will also have the opportunity to discuss your birth preferences for pregnancy care and birth, ensuring you feel informed, supported, and confident moving forward.
An ultrasound will be performed at this visit to confirm the gestational age, identify the fetal heartbeat, and determine whether the pregnancy is single or multiple. Routine antenatal blood tests will be arranged, and there will be a discussion about genetic screening options and any additional appointments that may be recommended based on the patient’s individual medical history.
In early pregnancy, Dr. Ini generally recommends appointments every two to four weeks, or more frequently if needed. As delivery approaches, weekly visits may become necessary. Each appointment is set to the individual’s needs, with time allocated for meaningful discussion and shared decision-making.
Dr. Ini makes every effort to respect patients’ time and keep to appointment schedules. However, due to the unpredictable nature of obstetrics, occasional delays may occur.
Pregnancy stages and frequency of visits
Pre-conception
Discuss pre-existing medical condition, the management of these conditions in pregnancy, and pregnancy safe medication alternatives.
Optimising future pregnancy outcomes after loss or a poor obstetric history.
Not required but helpful for those planning or needing early reassurance.
Early First Trimester
5 - 7 weeks
Contact the rooms to schedule your first appointment. See your GP to obtain a referral. Your GP can perform a blood test to confirm your pregnancy.
Tailored to individual needs; may include early ultrasound or bloods.
First Visit
8 - 10 weeks
Comprehensive history, physical exam, ultrasound for dating, fetal heartbeat confirmation, singleton/twin check, routine blood work, genetic screening discussions
First official visit
This is often the most comprehensive visit; longest appointment duration.
Late First Trimester
10 - 13 weeks
Follow-up on blood tests and screening, answer early pregnancy questions
Every 2-4 weeks
Will include repeat scans or further counselling depending on results.
Early Second Trimester
14 - 24 weeks
Routine monitoring: fetal growth, maternal wellbeing, cervical surveillance, morphology scan at 21 weeks, discuss results and ongoing care
Every 2-4 weeks
Ensure screening and anatomy scan results are interpreted and documented.
Late Second Trimester
25 - 27 weeks
Closer monitoring if indicated, discuss glucose screening and other trimester-specific assessments
Every 2 - 3 weeks
Focus on maternal and fetal health indicators; prepare for third trimester.
Third Trimester
28 - 36 weeks
Biweekly or more frequent visits, fetal position checks, blood pressure, discussions on birth preferences
Every 1 - 2 weeks
Start planning for labor and delivery.
Final Weeks
37 - 40+ weeks
Weekly visits: monitor fetal wellbeing, check for labor signs, finalize birth plan, cervical checks if needed
Weekly
Final preparations for birth; flexible scheduling may be required.
Why Choose Melbourne Maternal Fetal Medicine
What Matters To You, Matters Here
Every pregnancy brings its own unique set of questions, hopes, and decisions. At Melbourne Maternal Fetal Medicine, care is informed by experience, but always centred on the individual. Whether your pregnancy is routine or more complex, you’ll receive thoughtful guidance, consistent support, and time to talk through what matters to you. This is care that responds to your circumstances and supports you with clarity and respect.
All care is provided by Dr Ini Thevathasan, a Maternal Fetal Medicine subspecialist with additional qualifications in ultrasound. Her training allows for close attention to both maternal and fetal wellbeing, no matter the complexity of the pregnancy.
With high-resolution ultrasound available in every consultation, fetal wellbeing, growth, and placental health are assessed in real time, minimising the need for additional appointments and giving you ongoing reassurance without extra cost or travel.
You’ll see the same clinician throughout your pregnancy, from early planning through to birth and recovery. This continuity fosters a deep understanding of your medical history, preferences, and values, building trust and consistency in your care.
MMFM recognises that no two pregnancies are the same. Whether your care is straightforward or complex, Dr Ini works in partnership with you, offering guidance that respects your autonomy and is informed by both best practice and your lived experience.
Support doesn’t begin at the first scan. MMFM welcomes patients preparing for pregnancy or seeking early reassurance, allowing for risk assessment, health optimisation, and informed decision-making from the very beginning.
Delivery planning is proactive, collaborative, and designed with safety in mind. Whether preparing for a vaginal or caesarean birth, MMFM ensures you feel informed and supported, with appropriate access to obstetric, anaesthetic, and neonatal teams.
While Dr Ini endeavours to be present for your delivery, MMFM offers coordinated after-hours care with trusted colleagues to ensure safe, responsive support around the clock, without compromising clinical rest or safety.
Dr Ini contributes to state-wide maternal health policy, research, and education through her roles with Victorian health bodies. This advocacy and leadership help shape a system that better supports all women while bringing that insight back to every patient she sees.
Moments That Stay With Us
Every pregnancy is filled with moments, big and small, that leave a lasting impression. Through our Instagram feed, we share glimpses into the real experiences of women and families who’ve walked this journey with us.
Trusted Obstetrician and Maternal Fetal Medicine Services in Melbourne
At Melbourne Maternal Fetal Medicine, care begins with listening. From pre-pregnancy counselling and early scans to ongoing antenatal visits and support for complex or high-risk pregnancies, you’ll receive expert obstetric and ultrasound care delivered with compassion and attention to detail.
The practice is led by Dr Ini Thevathasan, a Melbourne obstetrician specialising in maternal fetal medicine and advanced ultrasound. She provides comprehensive pregnancy care, including early assessment, screening, monitoring, and birth planning. Every service we provide is personalised to each woman’s individual circumstances, because no two pregnancies are alike.
Personalised Obstetric Care, Every Step of the Way
Dr Ini sees each patient personally, she offers continuity which many women value, particularly during a time filled with both anticipation and unknowns. Her background spans years in the public healthcare and continued work in both public and private hospitals across Melbourne. Appointments are never rushed, ultrasounds are performed in-room, and every aspect of care is personalised to you.
Clarity and Support You Can Trust
Many women come to MMFM seeking not just answers, but clarity. From early genetic screening to planning for birth, Dr Ini works closely with each person to make space for questions and explore options without pressure. She offers evidence-based guidance with calm and clarity, helping women feel informed without feeling overwhelmed.
Flexible Hospital and Care Options Across Melbourne
Patients can choose to deliver at a number of hospitals, including Freemasons, Frances Perry House, and St Vincent’s Private, with shared after-hours cover provided by a small group of trusted, like-minded obstetricians. This ensures safe, reliable support without compromising rest or responsiveness. Costs and timelines are clearly explained early on, with flexible options for those planning private care.
Obstetric Designed Around What Matters to You
If you’re looking for a pregnancy doctor in Melbourne, or exploring your options for obstetric care with a female obstetrician, Melbourne Maternal Fetal Medicine offers a quiet confidence and a considered approach. From your first baby to your fourth, from needing extra monitoring to simply wanting continuity with someone you trust, this is care built around what matters to you.
Pregnancy Care Services That Leaves a Lasting Impression
Hearing from women and families who’ve received care at Melbourne Maternal Fetal Medicine offers a meaningful glimpse into what thoughtful, specialist-led pregnancy care can feel like. Their experiences reflect not just the clinical support provided but the sense of trust, calm, and understanding that shaped their journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Personalised Pregnancy Care with Dr Ini Thevathasan
What is Melbourne Maternal Fetal Medicine (MMFM)?
MFM is a private obstetric practice providing individualised care for women across all types of pregnancies, including those with higher medical needs. The practice is led by Dr Ini Thevathasan, a specialist in maternal fetal medicine.
Who will I see during my pregnancy?
All antenatal appointments are with Dr Ini Thevathasan, ensuring consistent care from your first consultation through to delivery planning.
What makes Dr Ini’s care different?
Dr Ini combines subspecialist expertise with a deeply personalised approach. She offers continuity, tailored advice, in-room ultrasound, and respectful, inclusive care—whether your pregnancy is low-risk or more complex.
Is MMFM only for high-risk pregnancies?
No. While Dr Ini has extensive experience in complex pregnancy care, she also provides care for women with uncomplicated pregnancies who are seeking experienced, individualised attention.
How early can I book an appointment?
You are welcome to book a consultation before pregnancy if you have any concerns or questions before embarking on pregnancy. If you are already pregnant, we recommend contacting us early in pregnancy to avoid disappointment. Dr Ini limits the number of births per month to ensure her patients receive the care and attention they require.
What happens at the first appointment?
The first visit typically includes a detailed discussion of your medical and pregnancy history, an ultrasound to confirm dates and viability, and arrangements for routine tests and referrals if needed.
How often will I have appointments?
Most women are seen every 2–4 weeks in early pregnancy, with frequency increasing closer to birth. Visits are adjusted based on your medical needs and preferences.
What is included in a typical antenatal visit?
A review of your health and pregnancy progress, a discussion of any concerns or questions, and an ultrasound performed by Dr Ini to monitor fetal wellbeing.
Can I contact the practice between appointments?
Yes. If questions arise between visits, you can contact staff during business hours. For urgent concerns out of hours, MMFM provides emergency support via a paging service.
Is Dr Ini available for delivery?
Dr Ini aims to attend each patient’s delivery. However, to ensure safe care at all times, she shares after-hours cover with trusted colleagues, including female obstetricians when preferred.
Practical Information About MMFM Services & Appointments
Where is care provided?
Dr Ini consults in private rooms and is accredited to deliver at several Melbourne hospitals, including Freemasons, Frances Perry House, and St Vincent’s.
Are ultrasounds included in every visit?
Yes. Growth and wellbeing ultrasounds are performed in-room at each antenatal appointment. Formal 12–13 week and 20–22 week scans are referred to tertiary ultrasound providers.
What is NIPS and when is it done?
Non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS) is a blood test performed around 10 weeks to screen for chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome. It will be discussed in detail at your first visit.
Can we screen for rare genetic conditions?
Yes. Carrier screening is offered to all couples and can be done before or during early pregnancy. Tests range from basic panels to expanded options covering hundreds of conditions.
What blood tests will I need?
Routine blood tests are recommended at key points in pregnancy (first visit, 26–28 weeks, and 36 weeks) to assess health markers, screen for infections, and monitor things like iron and diabetes.
How is birth mode planned?
Birth planning is an ongoing discussion. If you are considering a caesarean, you’re encouraged to inform the team early so appropriate theatre arrangements can be made.
What if Dr Ini is on leave during my pregnancy?
During periods of leave, appointments and care will be provided by trusted covering doctors who share MMFM’s values and approach. Cover is planned and communicated well in advance.
What are the fees for private obstetric care?
A full fee schedule is provided at your first visit. MMFM offers bulk-billed antenatal visits (except the initial scan) and allows flexible payment for major milestones, like 20- and 28-week fees.
Are ultrasound and pathology fees included in safety net calculations?
Yes, out-of-hospital services like scans and blood tests may be included in the Medicare safety net. Hospital-based costs (e.g. anaesthetic, surgical assistant) are not.
Will I be informed of all costs in advance?
Yes. While some emergency situations can’t be planned, every effort is made to explain costs upfront—including referrals, scans, delivery, and associated specialist fees.
