The Emergency Departments are experiencing high volumes of patients who need care. Please be prepared to wait. The most serious cases are treated first.
Not all health concerns need emergency care. You can also book a virtual visit or go to an urgent care clinic for these concerns. For life-threatening symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.
Thank you for your patience.
Congratulations on your pregnancy! We are happy you have chosen to have your baby at Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN). Here are some tips to help you understand our hospital processes and make your experience as smooth as possible. Our birthing unit is very busy right now, so we thank you for your patience and understanding as we care for everyone.
All obstetric and pediatric care is provided at WRHN @ Midtown (835 King St. W., Kitchener).
Please complete your pre-registration forms and bring them with you when you come to the hospital. You do not need to submit them ahead of time.
Consider taking prenatal classes to help prepare for:
The Region of Waterloo Public Health and Paramedic Services offers free online prenatal classes called InJoy Health Education. They also offer free prenatal and postpartum care, including breastfeeding support. These services are available at clinics in Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge.
Appointments can take place in person, by phone, or online. Call 519-575-4400 or visit regionofwaterloo.ca to book an appointment.
It is important to understand your private health insurance plan and know the services it covers. You will need to pay for any costs not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) or private insurance. For more information, visit the Childbirth page.
During active labour and birth, each nurse cares for one birthing patient and their care partners. After birth, nurses each support three to four patients and their care partners. If you are booked for induction, we may call you to the hospital at any time, day or night. If you cannot arrive within 60 minutes, another patient will be called to take your spot.
Please review the visitor policies on the Childbirth page. Only children from the same household (siblings) may visit. One support person may stay overnight after birth. In a semi-private room, we may ask support persons to go home overnight.
The hospital does not provide supplies for parents or their babies. Bring maternity pads, diapers, wipes, maternity underwear, toiletries, and other necessities. Food is only provided for patients. Family and friends should bring their own meals.
Parents with complex breastfeeding needs can be referred to a lactation consultant. A breastfeeding discharge class is offered to all breastfeeding patients.
If the birthing patient and baby are well, early discharge is possible. Otherwise, you can expect to go home:
Once discharged, you have 60 minutes to leave your room. Please plan your transportation in advance. You may need to wait in the hospital lobby for your ride.
Put your baby’s car seat together and know how it works before you leave the hospital. Nurses cannot help you install the car seat. Review the Ministry of Transportation guidelines for safety.
Your baby should see a family doctor, midwife, or nurse practitioner within 72 hours of discharge. You will schedule this appointment after leaving the hospital.
For more information, visit the Childbirth page.
