Last updated: November 28, 2024

If you are pregnant, you may want to develop a plan about where and how to deliver your baby. You can consider who you want to have at the birth and where it will take place. It can also be helpful to take childbirth classes during your pregnancy. This will help you prepare for labour.

If you live in British Columbia, you can choose to give birth in a hospital or at home. Where you choose to give birth depends on your preference and your health care needs. Whether you choose to give birth in a hospital or at home, it helps to understand the advantages or disadvantages of each type of care. 

• Childbirth classes
• Childbirth: Labouring in water and water delivery
• Choosing where to give birth: Hospital or home
• Making a birth plan
• Packing for birth at a hospital
• Pregnancy: Deciding where to deliver

Having a familiar face present during your labour may be comforting. You may choose a close friend, partner or relative to join you. A doula can also provide support to you and your partner. Whoever you choose, make sure that they are kind, supportive and encouraging during your labour.

• Doulas and support during childbirth

It is possible to have a vaginal birth after a caesarean. This type of birth is called a vagninal birth after caesarian orVBAC. This can be a safe choice for most women. It depends on how many C-sections you have had before. Speak with your healthcare provider to confirm it a VBAC is right for you. Learn more in this section:

• Childbirth: Perineal massage before labour
• Vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC)