This space is designed to support you as you begin and move through your pregnancy journey, offering clear, helpful information every step of the way.
On this page, you’ll find details about what prenatal care looks like, what to consider and when, and what to expect throughout pregnancy. You’ll also learn more about our Prenatal Care Clinic, including how to access services and complete a self-referral. Whether you’re newly pregnant or preparing for the months ahead, this page is here to help you feel informed, supported, and confident as you navigate your pregnancy journey.
Prenatal Care Clinic
At the Prenatal Clinic, we use a team-based approach to give you the best care during your pregnancy. This means you may see different healthcare providers depending on your needs and who is available. Everyone on the team works together to support a healthy pregnancy and a positive experience for you.
Our care team includes many professionals such as obstetricians and gynecologists (OB/GYNs), midwives, family doctors, nurses, social workers, and locum OBs (temporary doctors who help when needed). This collaborative approach helps make sure you receive safe, timely, and personalized care, without unnecessary delays.
Everyone’s care journey is different. For example, some patients may begin care with a midwife, then see a family doctor around 24 to 28 weeks, and later transfer to an OB. Others may see a locum OB if their regular doctor is away. No matter who you see, all care providers communicate and work together to make sure your care is well-coordinated and consistent.
If you have any questions about your care or about who you are seeing, please feel free to ask. It’s helpful to write down your questions before your visit so you don’t forget anything important.
Your Referral
Sault Area Hospital provides a central intake process for all the obstetricians in Sault Ste. Marie. It is preferred that patients seek referrals from primary care providers such as family doctors, nurse practitioners, ED physicians or walk-in clinics. Self-referrals are accepted if you do not have access to a physician or NP.
Referral by a primary care provider is preferred; however, patients can self-refer if they do not have access to a provider by completing the intake form (self-referral preferred method) or leaving a message at 705-759-3434 ext. 2645.
Individuals can expect a call back from a care team member within one week; if you do not hear back, please call 705-759-3434 ext. 2645.
Location
The Prenatal Care Clinic is located on 1A in the Women and Children’s Health Department.
As this is a secured unit, please use the call button located to the right of the entrance doors. After speaking with staff through the intercom and confirming your appointment, access will be granted. You will then need to press the wheelchair-access button to open the double doors.
Once inside, the Prenatal Care Clinic will be on your left-hand side. Please proceed to the registration desk to check in with the clerks, and then have a seat in the waiting area until you are called.
Trimester Care Breakdown
We invite you to explore the trimester-by-trimester care breakdown to learn what typically happens and when throughout your pregnancy journey. This section provides an overview of each stage of pregnancy, along with clear descriptions of the tests, ultrasounds, and diagnostic assessments you may be offered along the way.
Whether you’re looking ahead or checking in on what’s next, this information is here to help you feel informed, prepared, and supported at every step.
Weeks 11-28
Appointment Scheduled Monthly
Weeks 29-34
Appointments Scheduled Bi-Weekly
Weeks 36-42
Appointments Scheduled Weekly
Dating Ultrasound
A dating ultrasound is done in the first trimester of pregnancy. Your baby’s measurements are taken to estimate how long you have been pregnant for. At this time they check if you are pregnant with one or multiple babies, and ensure that your pregnancy is not ectopic (a non-viable pregnancy where the baby grows outside the uterus, such as in your fallopian tube). If you don’t know your last menstrual period, a dating ultrasound is helpful to determine when you became pregnant and the estimated due date.
Routine Bloodwork
Blood tests are a routine part of your prenatal care. When you go for your initial visit either with your family provider, OB, or your midwife, you’ll be asked to have your bloodwork completed to check your general health, your blood type, and certain infectious diseases such as Hepatitis B and HIV. A Syphilis test is also completed at this time.
These results help guide your prenatal care and ensure that you and your baby are monitored and cared for appropriately.
Prenatal Screening
Enhanced First Trimester Screen (Ultrasound + Bloodwork)
This is a prenatal screening test performed between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy to determine the risk of certain chromosomal conditions. It is not a diagnostic test. An eFTS primarily screens for Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and Trisomy 18 (Edward’s syndrome). This is one of the options for genetic screening. It consists of an ultrasound (where they measure the thickness of tissue in your baby’s neck) and maternal blood work. There is no fee associated with this test.
Maternal Serum Screening
A screening test that uses a blood sample to look for specific proteins and hormones. It is typically performed between 14 weeks and 21 weeks. It also screens for Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and Trisomy 18 (Edward’s syndrome). The lab measures four markers in your blood (called a “Quad screen”). These results are combined with your age and weight to calculate a risk probability. It is also done if you miss your first-trimester screening window (more than 14 weeks pregnant).
Non-invasive Prenatal Testing (a fee may apply)
This is a highly accurate blood test that screens for numerous chromosomal conditions such as Down Syndrome, Trisomy 18 and Trisomy 13, as well as other, less common conditions. If this is something you are interested in, you can talk to your family doctor, midwife or obstetrician. In some cases, this test may be financially covered, however if you do not meet the criteria you can choose to pay for it yourself.
Click here for more information from Prenatal Screening Ontario.
Anatomical Ultrasound (Anatomy Scan)
This ultrasound is performed between 18-22 weeks of pregnancy. It looks at all of your baby’s organs such as their heart, lungs and kidneys, and can usually determine the fetal gender. Many measurements are also taken to check on the growth of your baby.
Other things looked at are how much amniotic fluid surrounds your baby, the location and general health of your placenta, and how well blood is flowing to/from your baby through their umbilical cord.
Because of all the things they are looking for, and since many measurements depend on your baby’s position, this ultrasound can last up to an hour, and you may have to return more than once for a full anatomy scan to be completed.
Gestational Diabetes Screening Bloodwork
This test is recommended to all pregnant individuals to test for gestational Diabetes (a type of Diabetes that occurs in pregnancy). It is done at LifeLabs, and consists of you drinking a very sweet drink, and then having your blood tested afterwards to check your blood sugar level.
Depending on the results of this test, you may need to have another, more in-depth version of this test, requiring more blood samples spaced one hour apart to measure how your blood sugar progresses over time.
If these tests are both positive, you may have Gestational Diabetes. This requires closer monitoring of your baby in order to prevent complications, as well as dietary and lifestyle changes to help manage your blood sugar levels. Sometimes, a medication called insulin may be needed to keep your blood sugar levels stable.
Pertussis Vaccine (optional between 27-32 weeks)
Also known as the Tdap vaccine, it is recommended for all pregnant individuals to protect newborns from severe pertussis (whooping cough) infection. It is very effective and works by transferring antibodies from you to the fetus, giving them acquired protection from the infection until they are old enough to be vaccinated themselves.
RhoGam Injection (for RH negative mothers)
WinRho, commonly known as Rhogam, is a blood product given to pregnant people by injection who have an Rh negative blood type.
This is given to prevent Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn, which occurs when an Rh negative person gives birth to an Rh positive baby, and their blood mixes.
A repeat dose may be needed after you give birth if your baby’s blood type is Rh positive.
Group B Streptococcus Swab
This is a routine test done on all pregnant individuals. It is done by inserting a special cotton swab into your vagina and rectum. This test checks for a specific bacteria that is harmless to the pregnant individual, but if left untreated, can cause a severe, life-threatening infection in newborns.
If you have a positive swab, you will be treated with antibiotics during your labour.
If you are to have a booked C-Section, antibiotics are not needed as the transfer of bacteria from you to your baby happens during a vaginal birth.
Non-Stress Test
A non-stress test in a non-invasive way to check on the health of your baby.
It is done by putting 2 monitors around your belly, which are kept in place with stretchy bands. One monitor picks up your baby’s heart rate, and the other picks up any cramping or contractions you may be experiencing. You will also be given a small button to press every time you feel your baby move. These are then printed in live-time on special paper that is then interpreted by nurses, midwives and/or obstetricians. This test lasts a minimum of 20 minutes.
Ultrasound
If your pregnancy extends past your due date, you may need an ultrasound to monitor the health of your baby. The ultrasound will look at things like your baby’s movements, practice breaths, the amount of amniotic fluid, and the health of your placenta.
If you reach week 40 of your pregnancy, your care provider may start a conversation with you about whether induction is something to consider.
Prenatal Nutrition
It is important to eat a variety of foods during your pregnancy to ensure you feel well and have energy. Your body needs some extra calories during your second and third trimester to support your growing baby, which means you may want to eat an extra snack or small meal every day.
Taking a prenatal vitamin containing 0.4mg of Folic Acid is also recommended.
Ask your healthcare provider for help finding a prenatal supplement that is right for you.
Pelvic Floor Health
Your pelvic floor plays a key role in supporting your bladder, uterus, and bowel, and it works hard during pregnancy and childbirth. Focusing on pelvic floor health before giving birth can help strengthen these muscles, improve bladder control, reduce the risk of tearing or incontinence, and support a smoother recovery postpartum. Participating in pelvic floor therapy or exercises while pregnant can also increase your awareness of these muscles, help with labor preparation, and make it easier to regain strength after delivery. Taking the time to care for your pelvic floor now is an investment in your comfort, confidence, and long-term health as you welcome your baby.
Local Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Providers
If you are a Group Health Centre (GHC) patient, GHC offers pelvic floor physiotherapy services. Please ask your care provider for a referral.
Your Mental Health Matters
Pregnancy can be a time of joy, anticipation, and sometimes unexpected challenges. It’s completely normal to experience a range of emotions, and taking care of your mental health is an important part of caring for yourself and your baby.
Click the link below to explore supportive information, resources, and guidance designed for expecting moms—you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Take Action
If you experience any of these signs, contact your physician/midwife or come to the hospital:
- Bad cramps or stomach pains that do not go away.
- Bleeding, trickle or a gush of fluid from your vagina.
- Lower back pain/pressure, or change in lower backache.
- A feeling that the baby is pushing down.
- Contractions, or change in the strength or number of them.
- An increase in the amount of vaginal discharge.
- Fever, chills, dizziness, vomiting or a bad headache.
- Blurry vision or spots before your eyes.
- Sudden or severe swelling of your feet, hands, or face.
- A significant change in your baby movements. Expect the baby to vary greatly in the amount it moves. The baby should move at least 10 times in 10-12 hours.
If you are over 20 weeks pregnant, please present to Women & Children’s Health (1A) to be assessed by the on-call physician:
Between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm: Go directly to Women & Children’s Health (1A).
Between 7:00 pm and 7:00 am: First, register at Registration, located in the Emergency Department (ED), to the right of the main ED Triage desk when you enter. Then proceed to Women & Children’s Health (1A).
If you are under 20 weeks pregnant, please go to the Emergency Department for assessment.
Preparing For Your Baby's Arrival
Welcoming your baby is an exciting and life-changing experience. This section will guide you through important things to consider and practical steps to take before your little one arrives.
From preparing your home and packing your hospital bag to understanding newborn essentials, we’re here to help you feel confident, organized, and ready for this special journey.
Your Baby's Doctor
You need to know who your baby’s doctor is going to be before the baby is born. If you do not have a family doctor, speak to your obstetrician for options. Your baby needs to be seen by his/her physician within one week of discharge from the hospital. An appointment for your baby needs to be booked prior to leaving the hospital.
Packing Your Hospital Bag
Parent's List
- Any medications mom is taking in their original containers
- Comfortable nightgowns/pajamas, housecoat, slippers/sandals, and undergarments including a nursing bra if breastfeeding
- Unscented lotions, shampoo, conditioner and body wash
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush and hair elastics/clips
- Your preference of sanitary napkins (pads) or adult diapers
- Facial Wipes & Tissue
- Lip balm
- Snacks & Beverages
- Money (cafeteria & parking)
- Cell Phone & Phone Charger
- Clothes to wear home upon discharge
- Pens (black or blue ink only)
Baby's List
- Your choice of newborn diapers and wipes
- Newborn sleepers and hats to wear in the hospital and to wear home upon discharge
- Cotton newborn mittens
- Comb/Brush
- Baby Wash
- Baby Blankets
- Pacifiers (optional – if not breastfeeding, or if making the informed decision to use regardless)
- Breast feeding pillow (optional)
- Collected colostrum (optional – storage is provided)
- Your choice of formula if choosing that as your feeding method
- Your choice of bottles
- Burp Cloths
- CSA approved car seat if you are travelling home in a vehicle
Car Seat
The use of car seats is required by Ontario law. Parents must be familiar with, and practice how to use their infant’s car seat prior to coming to hospital.
It is the parent’s responsibility to:
- Ensure the car seat meets Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards
- Ensure the infant is secured properly in his/her car seat, and
- Ensure the car seat is properly secured in the vehicle
Car seats that do not meet Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety standards include (but not limited to):
- Car seats that are more than 10 years old or beyond the expiry date of the manufacturer
- Car seats purchased in the United States. Use of these car seats in Canada can result in a fine as well as demerit points.
A car seat clinic is available through the THRIVE Child Development Centre. If interested, you can call 705-759-1131 and ask for the car seat clinic to schedule an appointment.