Your doctor or midwife works with our maternity care team to ensure the best, safest birth experience for you and your baby. You will receive one-to-one nursing care - where a nurse is assigned to care solely for you - during active labour during labour.

Your doctor of midwife will always remain involved in your labour and birth, even when additional specialists are involved.

•  If concerns arise during labour and birth, you may receive care from an obstetrician, a specialist in complicated pregnancies and births.
  
•  If you choose an epidural, this will be given by an anesthesiologist, a specialist in pain management and the care of patients during surgery.
  
•  If there are concerns about your baby's health, they may be cared for by a pediatrician, a specialist in baby and children's health.
  

Following birth, you will be supported by nurses who will monitor the well-being of both you and your baby. You will learn about baby care and get help with infant feeding, so you are ready to care for yourself and your baby once you return home. Your maternity care provider will check on you daily to see how you are doing.

BC Women's is a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of British Columbia. This means we train the next generation of maternity care providers including medical students, midwifery students and nursing students. Learners may participate in your labour and delivery care, under direct supervision, and only with your permission. Residents may also be involved in your care. Residents are doctors who have completed their medical degree and are engaged in supervised training before practicing in their chosen speciality. Talk to your maternity care provider if you have questions.

Research shows support people can reduce your chances of some complications, like a caesarean section. We honour your wishes about who you want with you during your labour and birth. Having support people with you can provide a sense of safety and allow you to better express your needs.

Your support can come from your partner, spouse, a family member, friend or a doula. They can bring you water, hold your hand, and provide encouragement during labour.

Ultimately, it will be your baby who determines the progress of your labour and birth. It's important to be flexible and open to changes throughout your labour and birth.