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.
Birth Planning
If you’ve not done so already and if you’re still working, you may want to consider when/how to end your work period as you enter the late stages of pregnancy. Having contingencies or back up plans can also be useful since how often do we stick to ‘the plan’? As you start to shift focus on preparing for your baby’s arrival, reflecting on your birth plan preferences can nudge some reflection for you and perhaps those that will support you through labour and delivery. Is there a special way you want to capture the first few moments after your baby’s arrival – a particular ceremony you’d like to consider or perhaps a welcome song or prayer? Whether it’s work, birth plans or confirming who’s going to help in the first little bit after your baby comes, the resources we’ve selected aim to help you make informed decisions and plans for this time. Check out our links for valuable information on end-of-work plans and more.
Prenatal Classes
Late pregnancy is another time you might consider exploring prenatal classes. These sessions offer another avenue for you to feel better prepared and confident for labour, delivery and the early days of parenthood. You can learn useful breathing techniques, position changes in labour, and review various options that may be available to manage pain. Many types of prenatal classes are available, including online options, so see what might work best for you! Since some classes can be costly, speak with your maternity care provider or prenatal class instructor, as many classes offer spaces at reduced rates when needed. Check out our list of options in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.
Where to Deliver in Vancouver
Ideally, you have chosen your maternity care provider, which will likely determine what hospital you will deliver at based on their hospital privileges. This usually means that you will have been registered at your delivery hospital. Get a sense of what to expect by watching the video tours of <a href=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvHLKOY9Gys&t=1s” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>BC Women’s Hospital</a> and <a href=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9iSXthzdrbk” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>St. Paul’s Hospital</a>. Whichever hospital you deliver at in Vancouver, we’ve selected resources that’ll help you feel like you know what to expect from where to park, who can accompany you, and where the closest snacks are, so you can focus on your journey and the experiences that lay around the bend!
Thinking Ahead?
Hey Mama, you’re getting close to the big day! There are a few things to consider as you prepare for the arrival of your little bundle! What are your thoughts about cord blood storage or donation? While these are options that are available at both delivery hospitals in Vancouver — it’s totally up to you. You might also consider delayed cord clamping, vaccinations to keep your little one healthy and protected and the injection and drops offered to newborns. Check out the Decisions to Prepare For topic in Labour and Delivery to explore topics related to your baby’s care and help you feel confident and prepared for your journey to (and through!) labour and delivery. We’ve got you covered every step of the way!