Pregnancy and Birth

Are fertility treatments and reproductive technology covered by OHIP?
Since 2015, the Ontario Fertility Program has been available to eligible patients in helping them grow their families. You may be able to access funded fertility services regardless of your gender, sexual orientation, and/or family status.
How do I access abortion services in Ontario?
Abortions are available across Ontario and covered by OHIP until 24 weeks gestation; however not every city has equal access.
Where can I find information about sexual and reproductive health?
Many organizations and websites have information about sexual and reproductive health.

How can I find a medical specialist?
In Ontario, if you need to see a medical specialist, your health care provider will need to make a referral. Usually, your doctor’s office will take care of the referral and often book the appointment for you.
How do I find a midwife?
You do not need a referral from a physician or OHIP to get a midwife in Ontario. It is a good idea to try to contact a midwife clinic as early in the pregnancy as possible to ensure that they have space for you.
I am pregnant. Where can I find services?
You can find services and support in community and settlement organizations, community health centres, community centres and hospitals.

How much does it cost to get care from a midwife?
Midwives are funded to provide care to all residents (and their babies) of their catchment area, regardless of whether or not you have OHIP. This can be a lower cost option if you do not have OHIP and live in Ontario.
What is Public Health?
Public Health units are responsible for the protection and promotion of health and wellbeing of the general public. Public Health aims to improve the overall health of the population.
What mental health support can I receive after miscarriage, stillbirth or infant loss?
A loss, even in the early weeks of pregnancy, can trigger mental health issues for the parents and their families. Along with the physical healing, there will be a grieving process.

I am pregnant and don't have OHIP. What health care can I get?
Having a baby without OHIP coverage can be a very expensive and stressful experience. If you do not have OHIP or other insurance coverage, hospitals can charge you what they want, including amounts above OHIP prices.
Where can I get health care if I don't have OHIP?
You still have healthcare options if you don't have Ontario Health Insurance (OHIP) or other healthcare coverage.
Healthy Eating for a Healthy Baby
This multilingual booklet provides information for pregnant women on nutrition in pregnancy. It addresses concerns about alcohol and fish consumption, food safety, weight gain and physical activity.

Postpartum blues, mood disorders and psychosis
This multilingual brochure provides pregnant women and new parents with information on the baby blues and postpartum mood disorders. Parents are encouraged to get help and find ways to take care of themselves.
Do we need a pediatrician?
Pediatricians are primary care doctors who specialize in children's health, including physical, mental, and social health.
What are perinatal mood disorders?
Perinatal mood disorders can occur during pregnancy or in the first year after the arrival of a new baby. People may also use terms like postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, or postpartum mood disorder instead.

I did not plan to get pregnant. What are my choices?
This can be a very confusing and stressful time. You have choices.
Giving Birth in a New Land – A Guide for Women New to Canada and Their Families
This multilingual guide has information about prenatal and postnatal practices in Ontario. It also lists services and resources in your area.
Newborn Screening Ontario
This multilingual document provides information on newborn testing. All babies in Ontario are tested for rare disorders in order to reduce the possibility of health problems later in life.

Are fertility treatments and reproductive technology covered by OHIP?