Having a Baby in Canada

Having a baby in Canada as an expat or digital nomad can be a reassuring experience due to the country's high-quality healthcare system. Canada is known for its inclusive and accessible healthcare services, and this extends to maternity care. As an expat, navigating the healthcare system might seem daunting at first, but with a bit of knowledge and preparation, you can ensure a smooth experience. From choosing a healthcare provider to understanding the nuances of public versus private hospitals, this article will guide you through what to expect when expecting in Canada.

Choosing a Doctor

When it comes to managing your pregnancy in Canada, you have the option to choose between an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN), a family doctor, or a midwife. It's important to start looking for a healthcare provider as soon as you find out you're pregnant. In Canada, there are many English-speaking doctors and healthcare professionals, so language barriers are generally not an issue, especially in urban areas. You can find a doctor through referrals from friends, colleagues, or local expat communities, or by contacting a local health authority for a list of practitioners in your area. It's also possible to search online for healthcare providers who are accepting new patients.

What to Expect for Prenatal Care

Prenatal care in Canada is comprehensive and typically includes regular check-ups, blood tests, ultrasounds, and access to various prenatal classes. The frequency of visits will increase as the pregnancy progresses. Canadian healthcare providers follow evidence-based guidelines to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. Prenatal classes are often available through hospitals or community health centers, providing valuable information on childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care.

Do Expats Typically Have Private Health Insurance when Having a Baby in Canada?

While Canada's universal healthcare system covers most maternity care costs for residents, expats who are not permanent residents may not have immediate access to this coverage. In such cases, it's common for expats to obtain private health insurance to cover the costs associated with pregnancy and childbirth. It's crucial to check the terms of your insurance policy to understand what is covered and to ensure that you have the necessary insurance in place well before the baby's due date.

Giving Birth at Public vs. Private Hospitals

In Canada, the majority of births take place in public hospitals, where the standard of care is generally high. Public hospitals are well-equipped to handle routine and complex deliveries, and the cost of childbirth is covered by the provincial healthcare plan for residents. Private hospitals and birthing centers are less common and are typically used by those who prefer a more personalized experience or who have private insurance that covers such services. The main differences would be in the level of privacy and amenities offered, rather than the quality of medical care.

C-Sections in Canada

Caesarean sections (C-sections) are relatively common in Canada, with rates varying by province and hospital. They are performed when a vaginal delivery would put the mother or baby at risk. While C-sections are not the default mode of delivery, they are readily available when medically necessary. The decision to perform a C-section is made by the healthcare provider based on the specific circumstances of the pregnancy and labor.

Pain Management During Delivery

Various pain management options are available to women giving birth in Canada. These include natural methods, such as breathing techniques and water therapy, as well as medical interventions like epidurals and pain medication. The choice of pain management is a personal decision and should be discussed with your healthcare provider ahead of time. Epidurals are widely used and are generally available in most hospitals across the country.

Hospitals with Neonatal Intensive Care Units

Most major cities in Canada have hospitals equipped with Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) for babies who need specialized care after birth. These include cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, and Ottawa, among others. NICUs in Canada are staffed by highly trained healthcare professionals and are equipped with advanced technology to provide care for premature infants or those with medical conditions. If you live in a more remote area, you may be transferred to a hospital with a NICU if your baby requires this level of care.

Expats Talk about Having a Baby in Canada

"I had to have a C-sect, as my little one didn't want to turn. I went to the only hospital in town, Health Sciences. The Maternity ward has it's own 'emergency' room, so you can get help straight away if you need it, which is a great relief to know. For a town of only 200,000, it's a giant step ahead of other places! The nurses were wonderful, the facilities brilliant! My OB is the most wonderful, caring & beautiful man! Dr Bartellis! I was in hospital for 4 nights. I had an Epidural & Spinal Block. No problems," commented an expat living in St. John's. Newfoundland..

"Go to Dr Bartellis! Seriously, do a hospital tour, ASAP. It puts your mind at ease once you've seen the facilities," said one expat living in St. John's. Newfoundland..