If it’s time for your labour (and delivery), no visit checkups are needed. Any checkups that will be needed will be unique to your circumstances. Your maternity provider will likely guide what/when these happen. Of course, if it’s ‘not happening,’ checking in with your provider can help you understand what to expect while you await your baby’s arrival.
COVID-19 and Pregnancy
It’s important to stay current on the latest COVID-19 procedures at your chosen delivery hospital. Both St. Paul’s Hospital and BC Women’s Hospital have resources available on their websites to help you understand what to expect during labour and delivery and any current precautions being taken. For some, this might seem like a relief, while for others, it might seem to be a barrier — knowing what to expect can help prepare you and your loved ones on the current status and if/how that might impact your birthing plan and wishes. Check out our COVID-19 page for more information.
Screening and Tests
After birth and before leaving the hospital, a few tests are offered to all new babies. These tests include blood, heart, hearing and, if needed, jaundice (known as bilirubin). To get a sense of what’s in store, check out the outlines of these tests.
Thinking Ahead?
As you prepare for your baby’s arrival, it’s natural to think about all the ways you’ll care for them. If you’re in the hospital after delivery, in addition to your loved ones, you may also have a circle of support from experienced professionals around you. From nurses who can showcase tips on bathing your baby to lactation consultants who may help make small adjustments that offer big returns. If these and other resources are available to you, feel free to take advantage of them. After all, babies don’t come with instruction manuals! (And even though we’re not a manual either), check out some of the reliable resources we’ve reviewed that may help prepare you for this next chapter.
Thinking Ahead?
We know that preparing for the arrival of your little one can be exciting and challenging at the same time. But don’t worry; we’re here to help! While planning appointments, schedules and life after delivery (because all that good stuff matters), it’s also important to take things one step at a time and focus on the present moment. YOU have brought new life to our planet. (And on that note — here’s a very warm welcome from us to your little one — with wishes for a lifetime of health, happiness, and love).
Birth Planning
As your due date approaches, some big emotions may (re)surface. Sometimes, when uncertainty exists, we seek to strongly stick to the plan. While your healthcare team aims to support your preferences, it is important to consider your baby — they also come with their own plans. Keeping this in mind can be helpful if you’re concerned about how things may unfold. What may also boost your comfort is that a healthy mom and healthy baby is the main objective for all privileged to serve you during your birthing process. To explore more about labour and delivery, check out these reliable resources to feel present — body, mind and spirit — for the big day!
Where to Deliver in Vancouver
If you want a sense of what to expect when you deliver in a hospital, you can watch video tours of both BC Women’s Hospital and St. Paul’s Hospital. (*Popcorn not included)
Decisions to Prepare For
You’ll have decisions to make at the time of delivery and birth, which may surprise you if you have yet to consider them. These may include whether you want to donate or bank your baby’s cord blood or tissue, your decision on circumcision if you’re having a baby boy and what tests are offered for your baby after birth and in the hospital. Exploring and discussing these options with your maternity provider can help tailor your choices to the preferences of you and any loved ones. Check out the resources we’ve selected to help you navigate these decisions you’ll make for the arrival of your little one.
Thinking Ahead?
Can you believe it? It’s nearly time to bring your little one into the world and start your adventures together. But first, there are a few things to consider, such as when you will be ready to return home. Ensuring you and your baby are healthy and prepared for this transition is important. Of course, you’ll also need to schedule regular checkups with your maternity provider to reassess that both you and baby are adjusting as expected. To help supplement your instincts and/or advice from others, we’ve also included some helpful resources to help you navigate this new chapter of life with your baby.
Health Coverage and Benefits
In British Columbia, new parents can take up to 12 months of maternity leave. If both parents take leave, they can split it for up to 18 months, with the same benefits. Maternity care provided by a Family Doctor or Midwife is covered by the BC Medical Services Plan (MSP), the public health insurance plan for residents who have lived in BC for at least six months. An active BC Medical Services card is required to receive MSP coverage during pregnancy and postpartum. If you want to learn more about MSP coverage or maternity and parental leave in British Columbia, we have collected some helpful resources to explore. Remember to connect with your maternity provider to ensure you have all the necessary information to stay on track!