Resources

The first trimester can be a challenging time. Many people experience nausea and vomiting; anxiety about bleeding, and questions about genetic screening options. Below are a few links to reliable sources of information.

Genetic Screening Options
Check out the PSBC website for more information about your genetic screening options.

Nausea and Vomiting
(morning sickness that might not be isolated to the morning)

The BCWH website has information to frequently asked questions

Blood Type in Pregnancy – Rh Factor

Bleeding in Pregnancy can be caused by many different reasons. Most people’s biggest fear of miscarriage. While 10%-20% of all pregnancies can end in miscarriage, there are many other reasons for spotting or bleeding in pregnancy that are not related to miscarriage. If you have very light spotting, there is no cause for alarm. If you have heavy bleeding, please call the pager to discuss this with your midwife.

Ultrasound:

• At 8-12 weeks, an ultrasound is recommended to get the most accurate due date
• At 11-13 weeks, an ultrasound called a nuchal translucency screening is performed for those 35 and over, choosing the integrated prenatal genetic screening option

Your Midwives will have informed choice discussions with you about newborn procedures. Below are links to more information about these procedures:

• Vitamin K
• Newborn Screen
• Bilirubin Screening
• Hearing Screen
• Congenital Heart Defect Screen

Victoria General Hospital Virtual Tour of Labour and Delivery Unit

Handouts to help you prepare items for your labour:

• Hospital Birth Packing List
• Homebirth Packing List
• Labour Aid – Electrolyte Drink Recipe

If you are in crisis, call the BC Mental Health Line at 310-6789 (no area code needed); go to your local emergency department, or call 911.