For BC Women & Families
Optimal Birth BC provides evidence-based information and resources to pregnant women and their families to support them in making decisions about childbirth.
Information Leaflets
Optimal Birth develops information leaflets about options for childbirth. You can download any of our leaflets below.
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) in BC
Women who have had a previous cesarean birth often have questions about their next birth. Our brochure explains risks and benefits of vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) in British Columbia.
When Labour Starts
Early labour is a normal part of the birthing process. Our brochure explains what early labour is, what you can expect, what to do, and when you should call your doctor or midwife and go to the hospital.
I want a Healthy Vaginal Birth
If you are planning to have a vaginal birth, you should be aware of ways to increase your chances of having a healthy and positive birth experience. This pamphlet highlights information about prenatal care to improve the likelihood of a healthy vaginal birth.
Having an Epidural
This pamphlet highlights information about managing pain during labour and specifically, information on epidural use.
Links
College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC
Find a family doctor or obstetrician in BC.
Midwives Association of BC
Learn more about midwifery care and find a midwife in BC.
BC College of Midwives
Find out more about how midwives practice in BC.
Doula Services Association
Learn more about doulas and find a doula in BC.
HealthLink BC
24/7 information and advice from nurses, registered dietitians and pharmacists | Call 8-1-1
Prenatal Registry & Baby’s Best Chance
Register early in your pregnancy with your local prenatal registry for the best possible support and find a copy of Baby’s Best Chance.
Healthy Families BC
A website offering information about pregnancy, normal birth and child care from the Government of British Columbia.
Pregnancy Info – SOGC
The facts on pregnancy and childbirth from the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC).
Perinatal Services BC
Issues online quarterly reports in perinatal health and maternity care. They also post guidelines for obstetric care practice.
The Power to Push
A website from the BC Women’s Hospital and Health Centre. Provides up-to-date resources for pregnant women and their families in BC. They also maintain a Facebook group to help support pregnant women.
BC Association of Family Resource Programs
Provides a directory of free support groups and programs offered in your community.
Lamaze International
Lamaze promotes a natural, healthy and safe approach to pregnancy, childbirth and early parenting.
Giving Birth with Confidence Blog
An online community, created by Lamaze International, with a variety of stories, articles and tips related to pregnancy, birth and parenting.
Childbirth Connection
A not-for-profit organization in the United States that has worked to improve the quality of maternity care for mothers, babies and families since 1918.
