Frequently Asked Questions

What is the phone number for the St. Paul’s Hospital Pregnancy, Birthing and Newborn Centre (a.k.a. Maternity Center, a.k.a. Delivery Ward)?

604-682-2344, extension 62432

 

How do I find the St Paul’s Birthing Centre?

3rd Floor, Providence Building

https://www.providencehealthcare.org/en/having-baby/find-us

 

When should I call and/or come to the Birthing Centre?

Please call first! Sometimes the nurses are able to give advice without you having to come in to hospital.

If you have any of the following concerns:

  • You are less than 37 weeks pregnant and you experience contractions/cramping every 10 minutes or less.
  • You are over 37 weeks and you experience regular contractions every 3-4 minutes for the past hour.
  • You feel constant abdominal pain that does not go away.
  • You think your water sac is broken.
  • The fluid from your water sac is coloured yellow, green or red.
  • You have bright red bleeding from your vagina.
  • Your baby’s movements have slowed down (less than six movements in a two-hour period).

 

What are some recommended websites with information about pregnancy/ delivery/ newborn care?

 

What are some recommended resources for breastfeeding?

 

How do I sign up for Prenatal Classes with St Paul’s Birthing Centre?

More information on our workshops and how to register: https://www.providencehealthcare.org/en/having-baby/during-your-pregnancy/prenatal-classes

 

Can you provide more information about doulas? Are doulas welcome at St Paul’s?

  • Doulas are encouraged, especially for those experiencing birth for the first time.
  • They are not covered by MSP. Most doula services cost between $1000-$2000.
  • If you have a doula, please introduce them to our team so we can show them where to find supplies to support your labour and delivery.
  • You can learn more about doulas and find one that suits your needs here: https://www.bcdoulas.org/find-a-doula.html
  • If you identify as Indigenous, there is doula funding available: https://bcaafc.com/dafgp/

 

If my partner or I identify as Indigenous, can I request an Indigenous Wellness Liaison?

Yes, please let us know upon arrival, so we can facilitate your request. You can, find more information here: https://www.providencehealthcare.org/en/indigenous-wellness-services/indigenous-wellness-supports

 

What is the support person/visitor policy for the St Paul’s Birthing Centre?

  • You are currently allowed two support persons (as well as a registered doula) in labour
  • Visitors are allowed anytime, when you feel ready
  • We encourage your support person to stay with you to support you and baby. There is a sleeper chair in every room for them.
  • We encourage quiet time each day for you and baby to promote rest and breastfeeding. Please let us know your preferences so we can direct visitors to come back at a better time.
  • Children are allowed to visit, as long as they are accompanied by an adult.
  • Please no visitors with communicable diseases (e.g. coughs, colds, flu).

 

Are there private rooms at the St Paul’s Birthing Centre?

At this time, all labour and postpartum rooms are private. In certain postpartum rooms, the bathrooms are shared with one other family. These rooms are generally used by those who have had a C-section delivery or are admitted for newborn phototherapy.

 

How long will I stay at the hospital after delivery?

In general, after a vaginal delivery, you will stay one night (at least 24 hours) or after a C-section delivery, you will stay two nights (at least 48 hours).