Preparing for the birth

Photo: Stéphanie Caron

Is your due date coming up soon? Check with your prenatal care provider about when you should go the hospital or birthing centre.

Some facilities allow you to contact the birthing unit directly with questions about your pregnancy starting at 20 weeks.

In the weeks prior to your due date, think about what you want to bring to the hospital or birthing centre and start preparing your bag. Knowing who will care for your other children when it’s time to leave for the birthing facility will also take a load off your mind when your labour starts. Think about telling the person about their routine and preferences.

Labour: Process by which the baby passes from the uterus to the outside world, primarily through contractions of the uterus.