As you go through your pregnancy and birth, finding a health care provider that is a good fit for you and your growing family is important. This may depend on your personal preferences, medical risk factors and availability. In Manitoba, your options can be a family doctor, obstetrician or registered midwife.

Family Doctor

Some family doctors offer obstetrical care to low risk pregnancies as part of their practice. They can support you through your pregnancy, labour and delivery, postpartum care and can also become your child’s physician. To find a family doctor who delivers babies ask your health care provider for a referral.

Obstetrician

Obstetricians (commonly known as OBGYN or OB) are doctors who specialize in women’s health care. They work with both low and high-risk pregnancies. To find an OB you may need a referral from your Health Care Provider. If you do not have a Health Care Provider, Family Doctor Finder can help.

Midwife

Midwives provide care during pregnancy, labor, birth, and in the early postpartum period. Midwives work with other health professionals and consult with specialists as needed. You do not need a referral from a doctor to choose a midwife. To help you decide if you would like a midwife check visit the College of Midwifes of Manitoba website.

Your Baby’s Health Care

• All babies’ need to have a health checkup within two weeks of birth. 
• Call your baby’s doctor or midwife to book an appointment or go to your health centre or nursing station.
• If you do not have a health care provider, Family Doctor Finder can help.

Your Postpartum (after the birth of your baby) Care

• You should have a health checkup six weeks after the birth of your baby.
• Call your family doctor, obstetrician or midwife to book your appointment or go to your health centre or nursing station

Public Health Nursing Services

Once you and your baby are home, a Public Health Nurse will:

• call you within 48 hours to set up a home visit with you and your family.
• meet with you within a week to discuss how you are settling into parenthood.
• connect you with community resources and supports that are a fit for your family.
• to find a public health office in your region click here.