A/Prof Grant Saffer

I am an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Epworth-Freemasons Consulting Suites in East Melbourne. I have broad and in-depth interest in all areas of Women’s Health, with over 25 years of medical expertise. I initially trained in South Africa, then migrated to Australia where I specialised in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the Royal Women’s Hospital in Melbourne, and completed my training overseas at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester in the UK. I have been a longstanding Senior Consultant at the Royal Women’s Hospital. During my time at the Royal Women’s Hospital, I practiced in many areas of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, concentrating on the Labour Ward. In addition to my private practice, I am also the Associate Dean of Women’s Health for the Epworth Clinical School, University of Melbourne and run the Women’s Health program for the medical students at the Epworth. I love teaching and have found this role to be extremely rewarding.

I am dedicated to developing an excellent rapport and communication with my patients, something I feel is integral to promoting good health as is rigorous medical science and research. My philosophy towards my field of medicine can best be described as a gentle, holistic approach to patient care where natural processes and the views of women and their partners are genuinely respected and encouraged.

Firstly, as an Obstetrician, I feel that I provide an exceptional level of care for women throughout their pregnancy and birth. I am progressive and responsive to women-focused care, I will always aim for your pregnancy to be as natural as you want it, and will try to be guided largely by your own needs and expectations.

I ensure that patients have relevant, up-to-date information, enabling them to make informed decisions about their pregnancy and delivery, taking into consideration their beliefs and therapeutic preferences. I will always give you plenty of time at your visits for discussion of problems or concerns, which includes working together to arrive at a detailed and mutually agreeable care plan. As always, I tend to talk too much! I will, of course, advise on the safest avenues where medical factors and other circumstances do not allow for a full range of treatment options.

Over the years, I have developed a network of specialist support services which are proven to enhance pregnancy outcomes. These include specialist obstetric and gynaecology sonographers, paediatricians, IVF specialists, specialist physicians, physiotherapists, naturopaths, dieticians, psychologists and relaxation therapists both before and after delivery.

Mel my midwife, is also extremely experienced and has been working with me for over 15 years. She currently works in the delivery suite at Epworth Freemasons, as well as in my practice. Mel is here to provide extra support to you during your pregnancy and available for calls everyday. Whether it’s answering your questions, guiding you through each stage, or simply being a reassuring presence, Mel is dedicated to making your experience as smooth and supported as possible. Mel is an endorsed midwife. She can provide you with antenatal education, hospital tours and is also able to give you your pregnancy vaccinations. All of Mel’s services are complementary and at no extra cost to you.

As an experienced Gynaecologist, I also practice in all areas of Gynaecology, managing a wide range of gynaecological issues affecting women of all ages. These may include regular Cervical screening tests, breast checks, contraception advice, the management of infertility, abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain and peri-menopausal issues. I am affiliated with Number 1 Fertility where I regularly perform egg pickups, embryo transfers and early ultrasound scans. I also have a keen interest in laparoscopic or keyhole surgery as well as colposcopy, which is the treatment and follow-up of abnormal Cervical screening tests. I operate at the Epworth-Freemasons Day Procedure Centre.

In addition to my above roles, I have also had a longstanding involvement with the Epworth and have been involved with numerous committees, currently the Clinical Governance Committee, the Women’s and Children’s Institute Executive Committee and the Maternity Services Clinical Review Committee,

I am supported in my rooms and practice by my fantastic staff who have been with me for many years. My practice manager Maria has worked in Women’s Health for many years and is extremely experienced. Sienna also helps out at the desk with my general management, always there to help you with any tasks. You will find my staff to be exceptional, super helpful, reliable, approachable and much like myself, fairly relaxed!