Dr Dereck Souter

"I can use my knowledge and ability to help women achieve what they want out of childbirth, within the limits of safety. I'm quite comfortable with the concept of natural delivery without analgesia, but I'm also able to help women who are looking for a high-tech birth with epidural anaesthesia and/or elective caesarean. At Origins, there is no prescriptive formula."

"We use ultrasound at every appointment because it provides a greater degree of accuracy and reassurance. It's also a bonding thing - parents love to see their babies."

"Our knowledge and experience keeps the birth safe and sane. We know when to make the calls."

Dr Dereck Souter is married with two teenage children. Born and raised in Wellington, he entered Otago Medical School in 1980. After graduation, he joined the Royal New Zealand Navy as a medical officer. Dereck served both at sea and in the Navy Hospital at Devonport before moving to England to train in obstetrics and gynaecology. While gaining his specialist qualifications, Dereck attended many courses on laparoscopic surgery, held by both British and European experts.

After returning to New Zealand in 1993, Dereck joined the 'Blue' high risk obstetric team at National Women's Hospital, soon becoming a consultant. He was promoted to clinical director of the team in 1997. In 2000, Dereck completed his post graduate specialist diploma in obstetric and gynaecological ultrasound.

Today Dereck combines private practice with a part time role at National Women's Hospital, where he has specific involvement with the ultrasound department. His main medical interests are high risk pregnancy, multiple pregnancy, ultrasound scanning and laparoscopic gynaecological surgery.