You know we’ve got you covered! Quickly get to our full list of resources we’ve curated for this phase of the journey.
Planning Your Pregnancy
When it comes to announcing your pregnancy, the choice is entirely yours. You get to decide when and how to share this news. And remember, there’s no rush! You can take your time and share the news with different people at different times if that feels more comfortable for you. For example, you don’t have to tell your boss at the same time as your mom or best friend. Ultimately, there is no right or wrong answer, and deciding when to announce your pregnancy is entirely up to you and what feels most comfortable for you. Your healthcare provider can also give you some insight, given your circumstances. Trust your instincts and do what feels right for you and your loved ones. However you decide to do it, we’ve collected a list of resources to help you plan for your journey ahead.
Where to Deliver in Vancouver
Did you know that Vancouver General Hospital doesn’t deliver babies? The two Vancouver hospitals that offer delivery services are St. Paul’s Hospital and BC Women’s Hospital. As you prepare for your pregnancy journey, your primary care provider and other professionals involved may discuss the delivery options available to you based on your location and maternity care provider. Take some time to read up on the two delivery hospitals and the delivery locations available in Vancouver to help you make an informed decision.
Termination
Ending a pregnancy is a personal decision that can come with a range of emotions and thoughts. It’s important to remember that everyone’s circumstances are different, and there is no one “right way” to feel about it. Whether it’s a decision that feels easy or one that comes with a lot of conflicting emotions, this is all quite natural. You may even find it helpful to journal or perform ceremony as a way to make sense of what’s going on for you. No matter where you are on the spectrum, resources and people are available to help you make the best decision for you. We encourage you to seek the support of your healthcare provider as you explore the resources we’ve gathered.
Choosing A Maternity Provider to Deliver Your Baby
Choosing who will not only support your delivery but will also be with you on your pregnancy journey is an important decision and one that’s usually made earlier on. Fortunately, there are several options available to you in Vancouver. Are you surprised to learn that many Family Doctors specialize in delivering babies? It may be helpful to explore them to see which provider suits your needs, preferences and unique circumstances. Our website offers insights on the available options, but discussing this with your primary care provider is also very valuable. They can provide additional guidance and support to help you make an informed decision. Remember, this is your journey, and it’s important to choose the support that feels right for you.
Prenatal Classes
While it may not be the right time for you to start thinking about prenatal classes, exploring what else is out there can be useful. For example, the Connecting Pregnancy Program offered by the <a href=”http://birthdocs.ca/about/our-programs/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>birthdocs family practice maternity service</a> and <a href=”https://www.scbp.ca/our-care/connecting-pregnancy-groups” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>South Community Birth Program</a> in Vancouver, offers group care and support, connecting you with other parents-to-be and healthcare providers to help you navigate the challenges of pregnancy. Does that seem like it might be a good match for you? Check out these and other resources on prenatal classes, or speak with your maternity care provider to see what could be a good fit for you.
Thinking Ahead
Finding childcare in Vancouver (or anywhere!) can be daunting, so many people start early to secure a spot that meets their needs. The City of Vancouver provides useful information about childcare options in the city, including information on programs operated by community centres and resources to help you navigate the process. West Coast Child Care Resource Centre manages a list of available childcare options and offers updates and short articles too. Finding the right fit for you and your family will require some exploration and can be supplemented with insights from your maternity care provider. May your planning and preparation help you find the best childcare option for you and your family!