I think this is a very personal choice and one only you and hubby can make yourselves. It's great to get lots of feedback from others who have used both options but ultimately you need to decide this yourself and based on what you want. From the sounds of it though you seem to be swinging towards the public option. Don't let the idea of going "private" sway you especially if you have a fantastic public hospital at your disposal.

Having said that I went private and don't regret it one little bit. My OB was AWESOME and went above and beyond what I expected. He came to see me several times during my labour (only 10 hour labour so not too long). The midwife who was with me for the labour was fantastic and I knew her from our antenatal classes, she even stayed past her shift to help deliver me. I had some difficulties during my PG (CVS and GD) and found that being with my OB gave me a better sense of calm and explanation as I could go to him for answers and a caring voice to answer me. I could ring him at any time with any concerns and get an answer. My hospital was wonderful, cannot fault it. The rooms were gorgeous and very private, own bathroom and it was like staying in a hotel. Food was fabulous and I even got a double bed in my room.

Regarding intervention, it would be a matter of finding an OB who is happy with your birth plan and to follow it. One nurse who saw me early wanted to try sintocin to speed things up (mind you I was dialating at at a good rate) but my OB said no and was happy to let me go as is, so it really is a matter of having your OB be there for you!! My OB didn't rush me and was happy to let me go naturally even though I had gestational diabetes which generally means induction and c/section is baby is big. I had neither occur and bubba was small and luckily went into labour naturally 11 days early. I will go private with any further pregnancies..

So this really is a decision you need to make yourself, obviosuly with some well meaning information behind your decision. I would recommend making the decision and sticking with it as switching half way through may be more stress than you need. Also if you were wanting to switch to an OB half way through you may find it difficult to find someone as you generally have to book in early with an OB. I know someone tried to book with my OB 1 week after I did and couldn't get in. Most OB's book patients based on their due date, so they may take X number of ladies due each month and then that is it. Good luck and happy and safe pregnancy..