Community & Online Resources
Childbirth Classes
Mothering Touch
Mothering Touch Childbirth Educators are Lamaze-Certified childbirth educators, breastfeeding educators and DONA-trained doulas.
Camosun College
Prenatal classes help parents make informed choices by providing education regarding pregnancy, labour and birth.
Island Mother
Birthing From Within prenatal classes offer parents a blend of both practical information and personal exploration to help you prepare your heart, body & mind for the changes to come.
Mothering Touch Childbirth Educators are Lamaze-Certified childbirth educators, breastfeeding educators and DONA-trained doulas.
Camosun College
Prenatal classes help parents make informed choices by providing education regarding pregnancy, labour and birth.
Island Mother
Birthing From Within prenatal classes offer parents a blend of both practical information and personal exploration to help you prepare your heart, body & mind for the changes to come.
Breastfeeding
La Leche League Canada
LLL Canada encourages, promotes and provides mother-to-mother/peer-to-peer breastfeeding support and educational opportunities as an important contribution to the health of children, families and society. In Victoria, there are four local groups:
International Breastfeeding Centre
Dr. Jack Newman’s site is a source of reliable evidence-based breastfeeding information.
KellyMom
Comprehensive evidence-based information on breastfeeding and parenting.
BC Women's Milk Bank
The Provincial Milk Bank at BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre.
Human Milk for Human Babies (HM4HB)
Dedicated to fostering community between local families who have chosen to share breastmilk. The local Human Milk for Human Babies - Vancouver Island group can be found here on Face Book.
D-MER.org
Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex is a condition affecting lactating women that is characterized by an abrupt dysphoria, or negative emotions, that occur just before milk release and continuing not more than a few minutes. D-MER.org is managed by the lactation consultant that first identified D-MER in 2007. She, herself, suffered with D-MER while breastfeeding her third child.
Lactation Consultants
Dr. Jennifer Wickens
A Family Physician with breastfeeding and lactation expertise. Dr. Wickens hosts a free, evidence-based breastfeeding support group. Follow the link to Breastfeeding Solutions for more information and to register.
Katie McNiven Gladman, IBCLC
A Registered Midwife and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. She provides breastfeeding/chestfeeding support services covered by MSP for parents and babies to 6 weeks postpartum, at home and in clinic. Referral required.
Tammy Timms, IBCLC – 778-432-4412
2988 Jutland Rd.
Victoria, BC
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant in private practice, Tammy is able to meet with you in the comfort of your own home to provide breastfeeding expertise.
Electric Breastpump Purchase or Rental:
Carol Arndt, The Breastpump Lady – 250-812-7370
Mobile breastpump service provider who rents, sells and delivers breastpumps all over the Greater Victoria Area.
Mothering Touch – 250-595-4905
Medela Symphony Breast Pump rentals.
TJ's The Kiddies Store (Victoria) – 250-386-2229
Medela Symphony Breast Pump rentals.
LLL Canada encourages, promotes and provides mother-to-mother/peer-to-peer breastfeeding support and educational opportunities as an important contribution to the health of children, families and society. In Victoria, there are four local groups:
International Breastfeeding Centre
Dr. Jack Newman’s site is a source of reliable evidence-based breastfeeding information.
KellyMom
Comprehensive evidence-based information on breastfeeding and parenting.
BC Women's Milk Bank
The Provincial Milk Bank at BC Women's Hospital and Health Centre.
Human Milk for Human Babies (HM4HB)
Dedicated to fostering community between local families who have chosen to share breastmilk. The local Human Milk for Human Babies - Vancouver Island group can be found here on Face Book.
D-MER.org
Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex is a condition affecting lactating women that is characterized by an abrupt dysphoria, or negative emotions, that occur just before milk release and continuing not more than a few minutes. D-MER.org is managed by the lactation consultant that first identified D-MER in 2007. She, herself, suffered with D-MER while breastfeeding her third child.
Lactation Consultants
Dr. Jennifer Wickens
A Family Physician with breastfeeding and lactation expertise. Dr. Wickens hosts a free, evidence-based breastfeeding support group. Follow the link to Breastfeeding Solutions for more information and to register.
Katie McNiven Gladman, IBCLC
A Registered Midwife and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. She provides breastfeeding/chestfeeding support services covered by MSP for parents and babies to 6 weeks postpartum, at home and in clinic. Referral required.
Tammy Timms, IBCLC – 778-432-4412
2988 Jutland Rd.
Victoria, BC
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant in private practice, Tammy is able to meet with you in the comfort of your own home to provide breastfeeding expertise.
Electric Breastpump Purchase or Rental:
Carol Arndt, The Breastpump Lady – 250-812-7370
Mobile breastpump service provider who rents, sells and delivers breastpumps all over the Greater Victoria Area.
Mothering Touch – 250-595-4905
Medela Symphony Breast Pump rentals.
TJ's The Kiddies Store (Victoria) – 250-386-2229
Medela Symphony Breast Pump rentals.
Birth and Postpartum Doula Information
Doulas of Victoria
Directory of local doulas.
BC Doula Services Association
A non-profit association promoting Birth and Postpartum Doula support for families in BC.
DoulaMatch.net
Directory of doulas from the United States and Canada.
DONA International
The world’s first, largest and most respected doula certifying organization in the world, with doula listings from Canada, the United States and other countries.
Doulas for Aboriginal Families Grant Program
The BC Association of Friendship Centres and First Nations Health Authority jointly offer funding to pay for prenatal, birthing and postpartum doula services for expectant Aboriginal mothers and families, living in BC (living either on and off reserve).
Directory of local doulas.
BC Doula Services Association
A non-profit association promoting Birth and Postpartum Doula support for families in BC.
DoulaMatch.net
Directory of doulas from the United States and Canada.
DONA International
The world’s first, largest and most respected doula certifying organization in the world, with doula listings from Canada, the United States and other countries.
Doulas for Aboriginal Families Grant Program
The BC Association of Friendship Centres and First Nations Health Authority jointly offer funding to pay for prenatal, birthing and postpartum doula services for expectant Aboriginal mothers and families, living in BC (living either on and off reserve).
Multiple Births
Vancouver Island Multiple Births Association (VIMBA)
Support for multiple births families by multiple births families.
Multiple Births Canada
MBC (Multiple Births Canada) is a community of families, educators, researchers and health professionals in Canada with a personal or professional interest in the well being of multiple birth children and those who care for them. They provide support, education, research, and advocacy both nationally and internationally.
Twins, Triplets & More! Resource Guide for Multiple Pregnancy & Parenthood, January 2018 Edition
Multiple Births Support Program - University of British Columbia
When You're Expecting Twins, Triplets or Quads: Proven Guidelines for a Healthy Multiple Pregnancy – Dr. Barbara Luke and Tamara Eberlein
This book outlines a practical, nutrition-based program to keep you and your babies healthy, and provides a comprehensive tour of what you can expect during your unique pregnancy and childbirth experience.
Support for multiple births families by multiple births families.
Multiple Births Canada
MBC (Multiple Births Canada) is a community of families, educators, researchers and health professionals in Canada with a personal or professional interest in the well being of multiple birth children and those who care for them. They provide support, education, research, and advocacy both nationally and internationally.
Twins, Triplets & More! Resource Guide for Multiple Pregnancy & Parenthood, January 2018 Edition
Multiple Births Support Program - University of British Columbia
When You're Expecting Twins, Triplets or Quads: Proven Guidelines for a Healthy Multiple Pregnancy – Dr. Barbara Luke and Tamara Eberlein
This book outlines a practical, nutrition-based program to keep you and your babies healthy, and provides a comprehensive tour of what you can expect during your unique pregnancy and childbirth experience.
VBAC
Power to Push Campaign
The goal of the campaign is to provide up-to-date resources for pregnant women and their families in British Columbia (BC), encouraging them to know their options, advocate for their choices, and push for the safest and best birth possible.
International Cesarean Awareness Network, Inc. (ICAN)
ICAN’s mission is to improve maternal-child health by preventing unnecessary cesareans through education, providing support for cesarean recovery, and promoting Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC).
The goal of the campaign is to provide up-to-date resources for pregnant women and their families in British Columbia (BC), encouraging them to know their options, advocate for their choices, and push for the safest and best birth possible.
International Cesarean Awareness Network, Inc. (ICAN)
ICAN’s mission is to improve maternal-child health by preventing unnecessary cesareans through education, providing support for cesarean recovery, and promoting Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC).
Emotional Support
Pacific Post Partum Support Society – Toll-Free 1-855-255-7999
200 – 7342 Winston Street
Burnaby, BC
Offers postpartum depression screening, referral if necessary and individual and group support.
Reproductive Mental Health
The BC Reproductive Mental Health Program is committed to providing expert and specialized information, services and resources to women across the whole of BC, to their partners and families and also to the professionals that work with them so that mental health challenges and disorders can be recognized and early treatment can be offered.
Self-care Program for Women with Postpartum Depression and Anxiety
This manual includes information on postpartum depression and anxiety as well as different exercises and activities that will lead to positive changes.
Canadian Mental Health Association, Victoria Office - BC Division
A national charity that helps maintain and improve mental health for all Canadians through mental health information, referral or support.
Information specific to Postpartum Depression can be found here.
Postpartum Support International
Promotes awareness, prevention and treatment of mental health issues related to childbearing in every country worldwide.
HealthLink / BC Nurse Line
Call 1-866-215-4700 OR 811 (from anywhere in BC) for 24-hour, toll-free access to registered nurses specially trained to provide confidential health information and advice on the telephone.
Vancouver Island Crisis Line
A non-profit service operating in cooperation with The Vancouver Island Health Authority to provide 24-hour support to anyone who needs it.
1-888-494-3888.
CBAC Support
The International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN) recognizes that not all women who want VBACs are able to have them. CBAC stands for Cesarean Birth After Cesarean, or a cesarean that occurs despite the mother working towards and hoping for a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC). This website is intended to address those issues and connect CBAC women to avenues for further support.
200 – 7342 Winston Street
Burnaby, BC
Offers postpartum depression screening, referral if necessary and individual and group support.
Reproductive Mental Health
The BC Reproductive Mental Health Program is committed to providing expert and specialized information, services and resources to women across the whole of BC, to their partners and families and also to the professionals that work with them so that mental health challenges and disorders can be recognized and early treatment can be offered.
Self-care Program for Women with Postpartum Depression and Anxiety
This manual includes information on postpartum depression and anxiety as well as different exercises and activities that will lead to positive changes.
Canadian Mental Health Association, Victoria Office - BC Division
A national charity that helps maintain and improve mental health for all Canadians through mental health information, referral or support.
Information specific to Postpartum Depression can be found here.
Postpartum Support International
Promotes awareness, prevention and treatment of mental health issues related to childbearing in every country worldwide.
HealthLink / BC Nurse Line
Call 1-866-215-4700 OR 811 (from anywhere in BC) for 24-hour, toll-free access to registered nurses specially trained to provide confidential health information and advice on the telephone.
Vancouver Island Crisis Line
A non-profit service operating in cooperation with The Vancouver Island Health Authority to provide 24-hour support to anyone who needs it.
1-888-494-3888.
CBAC Support
The International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN) recognizes that not all women who want VBACs are able to have them. CBAC stands for Cesarean Birth After Cesarean, or a cesarean that occurs despite the mother working towards and hoping for a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC). This website is intended to address those issues and connect CBAC women to avenues for further support.
Other Useful Resources
Registering your baby's birth
Online birth registration is the simplest way to register your child’s birth, and apply for a birth certificate, the Medical Services Plan for B.C. residents, Canada Child Benefits, and a Social Insurance Number.
Vancouver Island Car Seat Technicians
Child passenger safety information.
Baby's Best Chance: Parents' Handbook of Pregnancy and Baby Care
An online book that gives parents easy to read information, based on best practices and evidence, to ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby.
Safer Sleep For My Baby: Helping Parents and Caregivers Create a Safer Sleep Plan
Perinatal Services BC information and additional resources about safe infant sleep.
Safe Cosleeping Guidelines
A summary that highlights some of the issues to be concerned with as you make your own decisions about where and how your infant should sleep.
Victoria Native Friendship Centre
Encourages and promotes the well-being of Urban Aboriginal People, by strengthening individuals, families, and community. The VNFC delivers Career and Employment services, Health and Social programs, vibrant Youth initiatives, and dynamic Arts and Cultural practices.
First Nations Health Authority
The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is a province-wide health authority that is governed by and serves BC First Nations individuals and communities. Services are largely focused on health promotion and disease prevention and include:
• Primary Health Care
• Children, Youth and Maternal Health
• Mental Health and Wellness
• Communicable Disease Control
• Environmental Health and Research
• First Nations Health Benefits
• eHealth and Telehealth
• Health and Wellness Planning
• Health Infrastructure and Human Resources
Healthy Families BC
HealthyFamilies BC is a one-stop online resource offering the most up-to-date information and practical tips for protecting your family's health and well being.
Healthy Living – Government of Canada
Canadian health information for you and your family.
Hyperemesis Education & Research (HER)
Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a severe form of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. It is generally described as unrelenting, excessive pregnancy-related nausea and/or vomiting that prevents adequate intake of food and fluids. HER is dedicated to helping those suffering hyperemesis and those who have survived it. The Foundation is a voice of support and education to all who are faced with managing HG.
Evidence Based Birth
A trusted, non-biased source for the most current, evidence-based information on pregnancy and childbirth. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, Evidence Based Birth® gives you a starting point to find evidence about your options during childbirth, and a way to start conversations with your healthcare providers about those options.
Cochrane
A global not-for-profit organization, Cochrane produces reviews that study all of the best up-to-date evidence available through research, with the goal of helping you to make informed health decisions.
Bear Essentials Program
Children's Health Foundation of Vancouver Island supports families who have expenses related to their children's health need or disability. The Bear Essentials program will cover travel expenses, medical equipment or other specialized support for a child with special needs. Visit the Children's Health Foundation of Vancouver Island website for more information about grants and programs.
British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS)
Provides services to eligible individuals, families and organizations, both within Indigenous communities and within British Columbia’s urban and rural centres. If you are an Indigenous person living with a disability, residing within the province of British Columbia, or an on-reserve organization requiring health information / resources and support services, BCANDS may be able to assist.
Online birth registration is the simplest way to register your child’s birth, and apply for a birth certificate, the Medical Services Plan for B.C. residents, Canada Child Benefits, and a Social Insurance Number.
Vancouver Island Car Seat Technicians
Child passenger safety information.
Baby's Best Chance: Parents' Handbook of Pregnancy and Baby Care
An online book that gives parents easy to read information, based on best practices and evidence, to ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby.
Safer Sleep For My Baby: Helping Parents and Caregivers Create a Safer Sleep Plan
Perinatal Services BC information and additional resources about safe infant sleep.
Safe Cosleeping Guidelines
A summary that highlights some of the issues to be concerned with as you make your own decisions about where and how your infant should sleep.
Victoria Native Friendship Centre
Encourages and promotes the well-being of Urban Aboriginal People, by strengthening individuals, families, and community. The VNFC delivers Career and Employment services, Health and Social programs, vibrant Youth initiatives, and dynamic Arts and Cultural practices.
First Nations Health Authority
The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is a province-wide health authority that is governed by and serves BC First Nations individuals and communities. Services are largely focused on health promotion and disease prevention and include:
• Primary Health Care
• Children, Youth and Maternal Health
• Mental Health and Wellness
• Communicable Disease Control
• Environmental Health and Research
• First Nations Health Benefits
• eHealth and Telehealth
• Health and Wellness Planning
• Health Infrastructure and Human Resources
Healthy Families BC
HealthyFamilies BC is a one-stop online resource offering the most up-to-date information and practical tips for protecting your family's health and well being.
Healthy Living – Government of Canada
Canadian health information for you and your family.
Hyperemesis Education & Research (HER)
Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a severe form of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. It is generally described as unrelenting, excessive pregnancy-related nausea and/or vomiting that prevents adequate intake of food and fluids. HER is dedicated to helping those suffering hyperemesis and those who have survived it. The Foundation is a voice of support and education to all who are faced with managing HG.
Evidence Based Birth
A trusted, non-biased source for the most current, evidence-based information on pregnancy and childbirth. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, Evidence Based Birth® gives you a starting point to find evidence about your options during childbirth, and a way to start conversations with your healthcare providers about those options.
Cochrane
A global not-for-profit organization, Cochrane produces reviews that study all of the best up-to-date evidence available through research, with the goal of helping you to make informed health decisions.
Bear Essentials Program
Children's Health Foundation of Vancouver Island supports families who have expenses related to their children's health need or disability. The Bear Essentials program will cover travel expenses, medical equipment or other specialized support for a child with special needs. Visit the Children's Health Foundation of Vancouver Island website for more information about grants and programs.
British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS)
Provides services to eligible individuals, families and organizations, both within Indigenous communities and within British Columbia’s urban and rural centres. If you are an Indigenous person living with a disability, residing within the province of British Columbia, or an on-reserve organization requiring health information / resources and support services, BCANDS may be able to assist.
