Pregnancy and New Parent Guide

The Pregnancy and New Parent Guide lists services in Hamilton, Ontario that can support pregnant people and new parents.

Your Pregnancy Options

Services to support you after finding out you are pregnant, including pregnancy testing, testing for sexually transmitted infections and talking through pregnancy options. If you are unsure about your pregnancy and thinking about an abortion, the Patient Pathway can help you.

Navigating Pregnancy and Beyond

These services can help support you during pregnancy and can connect you to other supports.

Youth Services for Pregnancy and Parenting

These services focus on supporting youth who are pregnant or parenting.

Pregnancy Health Care Providers

It is important to have a healthcare provider during pregnancy. This category lists service options in Hamilton. If you do not have a family doctor or nurse practitioner, learn how to find a provider who is accepting new patients. Visit www.needadoc.ca.

Prenatal Education

Programs that provide education on pregnancy, birth and newborn care.

Home Visiting Programs

Services that come to you, to provide support for pregnancy and parenting.

Breastfeeding Services

Services that provide support with breastfeeding and infant feeding.

Private Practice: Some people look for support from a Certified Lactation Consultant® (IBCLC®). Search for a Lactation Consultant online outside of this guide. Some Lactation Consultant services may be free with provincial healthcare (OHIP) if you get a doctor’s referral, or there will be a cost to the service.  If you are unsure if a service requires payment, please check with the individual or clinic.

Primary Care: Some family doctors, midwives, Community Health Centres or Family Health Teams have breastfeeding support available for their patients. Check with your primary care provider to find out if they have breastfeeding support. If they do not have support, your provider may be able to complete a referral form for services outside of their practice.

Parenting and Early Child Development

Services that can answer your questions and discuss your concerns about parenting and your child’s development.

For more parenting courses and workshops in Hamilton, see the Growing Together Guide at Family Resources - Hamilton Health Sciences

To learn about EarlyON locations, Early Years services, and resources see Early Years Services | City of Hamilton 

24 Hour Helplines

These services are available by phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Abuse and Violence

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse or violence, these services can provide support.

Education

These services can help people finish high school or pursue other educational opportunities.

Emergency Housing and Housing Support

These services support people who are pregnant or have young children and need emergency shelter, are experiencing homelessness, or are at risk of losing their housing.

Indigenous Services

These services provide Indigenous individuals with various supports in pregnancy and parenting.

Legal Supports

Programs that provide legal support in Hamilton.

Mental Health and Counselling

This category includes a range of mental health supports for people who are pregnant, new parents or young children.

Newcomer Support

Services that provide support to individuals who are new to Canada.

Substance Use Supports

Services that can help individuals who have concerns about alcohol, drugs, tobacco or gambling.