Dickinson Cowan
reproductive medicine · gynaecology · obstetricsObstetrics
Ultrasound - early
Mr Cowan recommends an ultrasound scan at seven weeks to assess the status of the pregnancy. He performs this himself in his rooms, and discusses the result with the patient, outlining the immediate and long-term options the patient might need to consider during her pregnancy. For instance a patient might wish to discuss testing for Down’s Syndrome. Dick Cowan will make arrangements for the appropriate tests, provided the patient and her partner/husband understand the implications and limitations of the tests, and if they both agree.
Ultrasound - later
A Foetal Anomaly scan is commonly performed at 20 weeks, when the anatomy of the baby is checked by ultrasound. Mr Cowan may recommend growth scans in the later months of pregnancy.Antenatal care
Mr Cowan provides antenatal care from conception to 24 weeks of pregnancy. He particularly encourages this for patients treated for infertility or reproductive difficulty, but also looks after patients when conception was easy. At 24 weeks, and after discussion with his patient, he transfers care to a recommended obstetrician, or obstetrician of his patient's choice.Delivery suite
Mr Cowan recommends delivery at the Portland but it is expensive. The Delivery Suite there is comfortable, attractively decorated, and equipped with the most up-to-date equipment. During labour patients can have an epidural administered by the on-call Consultant Anaesthetist should the patient request this. Each delivery room at the Portland has a bath. There is a birthing pool on the Labour Ward as well. The midwives, and nursery nurses, at the Portland are most helpful and are particularly friendly.