Our Services
We offer extensive services to accompany on your journey through the birthing process.
Collaborative Care
We work closely with the Wallis for Wellness clinic where we collaborate with a fabulous team of wellness practitioners. We work with service providers in the following areas;
- Prenatal and baby massages
- Doulas and sleep trainers
- Orthotics services
- Dietician services
- Reflexology
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy
- Naturopathy
Prenatal Care
Prenatal care offers you the opportunity to learn about the changes in your body as your pregnancy progresses. Your care begins with an initial visit that lasts about 1 hour. During this time we discuss the care we provide to you throughout your pregnancy, labour and delivery and the postpartum.
During your prenatal care we see you on the same schedule of visits as a family doctor or obstetrician. That is, every 4 weeks until you are 28 weeks pregnant, every 2 weeks until you are 36 weeks pregnant, and weekly from then until you deliver your baby. We also order all of your prenatal lab tests (blood and urine) as well as ultrasound screening.
Our prenatal appointments are 30 minutes long which allows us time to discuss questions or concerns that you may have. At each visit we check your blood pressure, weight gain and your baby’s growth, position and heart rate.
DID YOU KNOW....
In some regions, there may be
waitlists
for midwifery services, due to high demand
Labour and Birth
Midwives can support you in giving birth either at home or in the hospital. For hospital births, we deliver our clients at Etobicoke General Hospital.
If you are planning a home birth, we will give you a list of the supplies you should have available for the birth. In the last month of your pregnancy, one of your prenatal visits will be at your home. This gives us the opportunity to discuss comfort measures during your labour and situations that may lead to transfer to the hospital. We also provide care to women wishing to experience a water birth.
Postnatal Care
After the birth, whether at home or in hospital, we will monitor the condition of both you and your baby for the first few hours. We will help you to breastfeed, have a bath or shower and provide information and guidance for your care during the early days after the birth.
We will visit you after the delivery to assess you and your baby, answer questions and assist with infant feeding. In the first week, these visits take place in your home, and then we will see you in the clinic at 2, 4 and 6 weeks postnatally. It is not necessary for your baby to see a family doctor or pediatrician for checkups during this time.
The 6-week visit is the final visit, which includes a physical assessment of your baby, and if needed, a pap smear for you. At your last visit, your midwife will provide you with the records you need to return to your regular doctor.
Healthcare Partnerships
FAQ
What are the signs of a healthy pregnancy?
A healthy pregnancy typically includes:
- Steady fetal growth as tracked during prenatal visits.
- Appropriate weight gain based on your pre-pregnancy BMI.
- Normal blood pressure levels.
- Feeling regular fetal movements starting around 18-22 weeks.
- Absence of severe symptoms like heavy bleeding, or intense pain.
Regular prenatal check-ups are essential to monitor both your health and your baby’s development.
What foods should I avoid during pregnancy?
Foods to Avoid
- Raw or undercooked meat, poultry, and seafood.
- Fish high in mercury (e.g., shark, swordfish, king mackerel).
- Unpasteurized dairy products and juices.
- Raw eggs (watch for foods like homemade mayonnaise or cookie dough).
- Deli meats and hot dogs (unless heated to steaming hot).
- Excess caffeine (limit to 200 mg/day) and alcohol (avoid entirely).
What activities should I avoid during pregnancy?
Activities to Avoid
- Contact sports (e.g. soccer, basketball)
- High-risk activities like skiing, horseback riding, or rock climbing.
- Heavy lifting or intense physical exertion.
- Hot tubs, saunas, or any activity that can raise your body temperature excessively.
If you’re ever unsure about specific foods or activities, don’t hesitate to ask!
How can I manage morning sickness?
For Morning Sickness
- Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day.
- Stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods like crackers, toast, or rice.
- Sip on ginger tea or try ginger candies.
- Stay hydrated by drinking water, herbal teas, or electrolyte drinks such as coconut water.
- Avoid strong odours or greasy, spicy foods that might trigger nausea.
How can I manage fatigue?
For Fatigue
- Prioritize rest by taking naps and getting plenty of sleep at night.
- Eat iron-rich foods (e.g., spinach, lean meats) and foods high in vitamin C to help with iron absorption.
- Stay active with light exercises like walking or prenatal yoga, which can boost your energy levels.
If symptoms become severe, let your healthcare provider know
Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy?
Yes, exercise is safe and beneficial during pregnancy for most women. It helps with mood, sleep, and overall health. Recommended exercises include:
- Prenatal yoga.
- Stationary cycling.
- Strength training with light weights (under guidance).
Are there any safety recommendations related to exercise when pregnant?
Safety Tips:
- Avoid exercises that involve lying flat on your back after the first trimester.
- Stay hydrated and avoid overheating.
- Stop if you feel dizzy, short of breath, or experience pain.
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine.
What prenatal vitamins should I take?
- Folic acid (400-800 mcg): Prevents neural tube defects.
- Iron and B12: Supports your blood and prevents anemia (consult your health care provider to discuss amounts)
- Calcium: Strengthens bones and teeth.
- Vitamin D3 and K2: Aids in building healthy immune system, strengthens bones.
- Magnesium glycinate: helps with the absorption of vitamin D and helps with restful sleep.
- Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA): Supports brain and eye development.
Let your provider know if you have dietary restrictions or special health concerns, so they can recommend the best option for you.
How do I know if my baby is growing normally?
Your baby’s growth will be monitored at regular prenatal visits. Key indicators include:
- Fundal height: Measuring the size of your uterus starting around 20 weeks.
- Ultrasound scans: Provide detailed information about your baby’s size and development.
- Fetal movements: Feeling regular movements after 18-22 weeks is a positive sign.
If you ever notice a decrease in fetal movement (less than 6 movements in 2 hours) or have concerns, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
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