FBC Programs and Services

FBC Programs & Services

How do I prepare for the birth of my child?

Ottawa Public Health offers prenatal classes in French and English. These classes cover a broad range of topics, from early pregnancy health to caring for a new baby at home. This is why we encourage expectant parents to register for prenatal classes as soon as they know they are pregnant. In fact, prenatal classes should ideally be started before the 18th week of pregnancy.

As an alternative to traditional prenatal classes, or as an additional source of information, on-line modules are offered by Ottawa Public Health. The series, A New Life, is offered in modules that cover topics such as healthy pregnancy, preparation for parenting and caring for a healthy family.

For information consult prenatal courses offered by the City of Ottawa, or contact a public health nurse through the Ottawa Public Health Information Line at 613-580-6744 ext. 28020.

Projet de recherche sur la parentalité (available in french only).

Triage unit

If you’re more than 20 weeks pregnant, you first come to an obstetrical evaluation (triage) unit at the entrance of the Family Birthing Centre for an assessment of your status and that of your baby. Based on the results of the evaluation, you and your health care professionals decide on the need to admit you or not. If you have any questions or concerns, do contact your doctor or midwife first. If needed, you can also contact the triage nurse at 613-746-4621, extension 4909.

If you are less than 20 weeks pregnant and wish to see a health care provider, please contact your doctor or midwife, or go to the hospital’s emergency department.

Start of labour

If you are in early labour (known as the “latent phase”), and you don’t need to be admitted but prefer to remain at the hospital because of bad weather or distance from home, you can relax in the company of your spouse or significant other in the “Early Labour Lounge”. It’s a safe and quiet place with a TV, a DVD player and a range of other activities to help you relax and manage your contractions.

Breastfeeding

Montfort Hospital recognizes that breastfeeding is the best nutritional choice for newborns. That’s why the FBC not only has a policy designed to promote successful breastfeeding, but also ensures its nursing staff provides you with close support during your hospital stay. Our lactation consultant can also give you extra help while you are at the hospital and, if needed, by appointment at our outpatient breastfeeding clinic after you leave the hospital.

Special Care Nursery

The FBC has a new neonatal unit for newborns who need a few hours of observation or need to be admitted because of health problems. Only two people at a time can visit the baby in the neonatal unit, and one of them (mother, father or significant other) has to wear the baby’s identification bracelet. Siblings and grand-parents can also come to the neonatal unit provided they comply with the conditions in the Visiting Hours section.

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