As you prepare for the arrival of your little one, it's important to familiarize yourself with the hospital protocols surrounding labour and delivery in Canada. By understanding these protocols, you can confidently navigate your birth experience and actively participate in decision-making. This blog post will explore the main labour and delivery protocols commonly followed in Canada, discussing their impact on labour and potential options to avoid them when possible.
Continuous Fetal Monitoring:
Electronic fetal monitoring is widely practiced and helps assess the baby's well-being during labour.
☹️ Can restrict mobility and limit the ability to adopt various positions.
💚 Discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of intermittent monitoring, allowing for more movement freedom.
IV Fluids:
The administration of IV fluids during labour aims to maintain hydration and provide necessary medication if required.
☹️ Can restrict mobility and limit the ability to adopt various positions.
💚 Discuss with your healthcare provider the option of consuming fluids orally, allowing for more autonomy and movement during labour.
Epidural Analgesia:
☹️ Epidural analgesia provides effective pain relief but can limit mobility and potentially prolong labour. It also can impact your blood pressure and the baby's heart rate as a consequence.
💚 Explore alternative pain management options, such as breathing techniques, relaxation exercises, hydrotherapy, or the support of a doula, to avoid or delay the use of epidural analgesia if it aligns with your birth plan.
Episiotomy:
☹️ Episiotomy, once routine, is now selectively used. Research shows that neither the person giving birth or the baby benefits from this procedure, and it is preferable to allow the perineum to stretch naturally during birth.
💚 Discuss this with your healthcare provider, expressing your preference for natural perineal stretching and tearing, and ask about measures to promote perineal health and minimize the need for episiotomy.
Skin-to-Skin Contact and Breastfeeding:
Skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding are highly encouraged in Canadian hospitals. These practices support bonding, regulate the baby's temperature, and promote successful breastfeeding.
💚 Discuss your desire for immediate skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding with your healthcare team to facilitate these important moments.
Wrapping up!
By understanding Canada's main labour and delivery protocols, you can actively participate in decision-making and work towards an empowered birth experience. Discussing your preferences with your healthcare provider, exploring alternatives, and advocating for your choices can help you navigate these protocols. Remember, your voice matters, and collaborating with your healthcare team and support persons can lead to a more positive and personalized birth journey. Trust your instincts, stay informed, and embrace the opportunity to shape your birth experience in line with your desires.
