You’re pregnant! It might have taken years of trying or it might have happened quickly, but now there are exciting changes and a baby on the way. Many people come to me wondering how they can best prepare themselves for pregnancy and labour — and the new life joining their family. It can be hard to sort through the confusing … Read More

*Please note that the terms “marijuana” and “cannabis” are used interchangeably in this post. In Canada with the legalization of recreational marijuana many people are using marijuana and are wondering: Is it safe to use marijuana or cannabis products in pregnancy or while breastfeeding? The short answer: Given the information we have at this time, the only safe amount of … Read More

“I am so happy we found Connecting Pregnancy,” says Nina as she soothes her new baby.  “I was pretty nervous being pregnant for the first time and not knowing anyone with a baby in Vancouver.  We didn’t even know what we didn’t know.” Most new families need much more than typical prenatal care. Group care programs are a great way … Read More

Becoming a parent is a life-altering experience. There are changes taking place physically, mentally, emotionally and perhaps even spiritually which can leave you feeling excited, surprised, confused or maybe even overwhelmed. During this transition time for you and your loved ones, being accompanied and guided along on this journey by passionate and dedicated health care professionals can make all the … Read More

  If you were caught off-guard by the time and energy it takes to look after your new baby, you’re not alone—the first few weeks can be hard. It’s important to take care of your emotional well-being in the postpartum period. “While having a baby is usually a time of celebration, families and the people around you may forget that … Read More

  Breastfeeding is the natural and normal way of feeding infants and young children. Learning about breastfeeding while you are pregnant will help you start out right.  Most  prenatal classes also provide at least a session on breastfeeding. Breastfeeding can be easy and trouble free for most mothers, with the right support. Keep in mind, however, that breastfeeding is a … Read More

  Your labour will be your own—and you’ll have a unique story to tell. No one can tell you what your experience of labour will be like, or how long it will last, because every woman is different. “Most babies are born simply and easily without any medical interventions. Your body has been carefully designed so that you likely have … Read More

  Most articles about preparing for birth focus on the “before” part—the plan for how you are getting to the hospital (partner, friend, taxi), and having a bag of essential items at least four weeks ahead of your due date. Labour is like getting ready for a marathon. If you are able to do some reading or prenatal classes and … Read More

  A balanced, nutritious diet during pregnancy is important to maintain your health and nourish your baby. Follow Canada’s Food Guide and focus on eating vegetables and fruit, grain products, milk and alternatives, and meat and alternatives. Limit sugary and high-fat foods. Fine-tune your diet – even if you already eat well Almost all pregnant women need to get more protein, … Read More

Getting pregnant, being pregnant, giving birth, and the caring for an infant in their first year of life—it is an emotional time for women and their families. The changes in a woman’s body that come with pregnancy can also change her mood and emotions in ways that may not be expected or welcome for some women. Your expectations, and expectations … Read More

Over the course of your pregnancy, you may have 15 or more visits with a family doctor. It can be a challenge to fit all your questions about pregnancy, labour, and childbirth—not to mention caring for a newborn—into those visits! If you are still looking for a family doctor for maternity care, you can find one at pregnancyvancouver.ca. Not every … Read More