Giving birth at Aneeja Hospital: what to expect

Having a baby at Aneeja Hospital means bilingual midwives and obstetricians who follow you from your first antenatal visit through delivery and your first days as a family. Here is exactly what to expect — the appointments, the birth itself, and the care for you and your newborn afterwards.

When should you start antenatal care?

Book your first antenatal visit as soon as you know you are pregnant — ideally before 12 weeks. Early care lets us confirm your due date with an ultrasound, check your blood pressure and blood group, screen for conditions such as anaemia and gestational diabetes, and start you on the right supplements. Our Gynaecology & Obstetrics team sees you in English or French.

How often will you come in during pregnancy?

For a healthy pregnancy, visits become more frequent as you approach your due date. The schedule below is the typical pattern — if your pregnancy needs closer monitoring, your obstetrician will see you more often.

Typical antenatal visit schedule (healthy pregnancy)
Stage of pregnancy	Visit frequency
Up to 28 weeks	Once every 4 weeks
28 – 36 weeks	Once every 2 weeks
36 weeks to birth	Every week
After the birth	Postnatal check at ~6 weeks

General guidance — your obstetrician adjusts the schedule to your pregnancy.

What are your options for the birth itself?

Most women have a normal vaginal delivery, and our midwives support you through labour with the pain relief options you choose. When a caesarean section is needed — whether planned for a medical reason or decided during labour — our obstetric and surgical teams are on site 24 hours a day, with two operating theatres ready. Whatever path your birth takes, the priority is a safe mother and a safe baby.

What should you pack for the hospital?

Keep a bag ready from about 36 weeks. The essentials are:

Your antenatal records and ID
Loose, comfortable clothing and a going-home outfit for you and the baby
Toiletries, sanitary pads and nursing bras
Baby essentials: bodysuits, a blanket, nappies and a hat
Phone charger, snacks, and any regular medication

What happens right after your baby is born?

We encourage immediate skin-to-skin contact and support you with your first feed. A paediatrician from our Paediatrics department examines your baby within the first day, checking breathing, heart, hips and reflexes, and your newborn receives the recommended early vaccinations and screening. Midwives help you with breastfeeding, cord care and bathing before you go home.

How long do you stay, and what about the first weeks?

After an uncomplicated vaginal birth most mothers go home within 24 to 48 hours; after a caesarean it is usually three to four days. Before discharge we agree on a follow-up plan: a postnatal check for you, well-baby visits and vaccinations for your child, and a clear number to call if anything worries you. You are never sent home without knowing exactly who to contact.

How do you register for delivery at Aneeja?

The simplest path is to start your antenatal care with us so your records and team are already in place when labour begins. You can book an antenatal appointment online, and our emergency department is open around the clock if your baby decides to arrive early.