Knowing where you prefer to give birth and what options are available to you can help you make informed decisions about your care provider(s). For example, if you prefer one of the two delivery hospitals in Vancouver, choose a maternity care provider with hospital privileges there. The Family Doctors with maternity special interest are listed on our site along, with which hospitals they deliver at. We also have helpful resources to guide you in making informed decisions about your pregnancy journey. Remember, this is your journey, and we’re here with you along the way! Check out these valuable resources.
Choosing a Maternity Provider
As you approach mid-way of pregnancy, you likely have chosen a maternity provider to support you throughout your pregnancy and delivery. If you’re looking for more support to find one, check out our “Choosing a Provider” page. This mid-pregnancy phase is also an excellent time to explore additional support options, such as doulas and Indigenous knowledge keepers/elders who can provide emotional and/or culturally safe support throughout your pregnancy journey. Feel free to discuss these options with your provider; they may have some additional insights!
Prenatal Classes
Prenatal classes can be another way to prepare for the upcoming birth of your baby and the early days of parenting. By mid-pregnancy, you may want to start exploring your options for classes — do you prefer online or in person, a few days or a few weeks? Reflecting on what you’re curious to learn about may also spark some discussion with your loved ones so that you’re able to choose the class that’s most appropriate for your needs, timelines (and schedule!) Prenatal classes may be one way to feel more confident and prepared for childbirth, breast/chest feeding, and newborn care. Often, group classes offer a supportive environment where you can connect with other expectant parents, share experiences, and maybe even plan play dates for the future. Our listing of prenatal classes are provided for informational purposes only.
Thinking Ahead?
At mid-pregnancy, you may be thinking ahead to turning the corner on your journey. This might be a perfect time to pause and reflect on your journey so far while your hopes, dreams, fears, and excitement might be focused on in the coming months. Given that the growth you’ve experienced until now has been largely on the ‘inside’, as your baby grows more ‘outwardly’, you might find that you’re having more discussions about what’s in store for you, your little one and your loved ones. Are there ceremonies or milestones that will be important for you? Sharing these and other insights with your maternity provider can help clarify what’s to come. Check out our trusted resources to dive deeper into these and other discussions.
Termination
Regardless of timing, it’s important to understand that there may be unique reasons to consider termination. While typically the window for termination is earlier in pregnancy, it can still be possible to consider this option mid-way through your pregnancy. There might be big emotions associated with this consideration so it’s critical to have an open and honest discussion with your provider. Journalling, ceremony, connecting with elders, and taking time for reflection can be other ways in which you can work with your emotions, concerns, fears or questions. Remember, your provider can be a valuable resource to help you make informed decisions that are right for you and your circumstances. Visit our page on termination for more information.