Prenatal Genetic Screening Offered
Prenatal genetic screening is a way to determine the chance of a baby having trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) or trisomy 18. As indicated in the Ontario Perinatal Record, every pregnant person should be offered prenatal genetic screening. In Ontario, however, we do not know how many pregnant individuals are actually offered this screening. By understanding how frequently prenatal genetic screening is offered in various geographic regions across Ontario, we will be able to address other important issues such as screening access and equity.
Supportive Care Offered
During labour, a variety of methods for pain management are available. Stakeholders wanted to identify and distinguish between pharmacological and non-pharmacological pain management offered. Non-pharmacological pain management, also called supportive care, includes techniques such as breathing exercises, guided imagery, and hydrotherapy. Supportive care may also include having a support partner/doula present. This new data element will allow us to better understand various methods of pain management and patient/client outcomes.
Post-pregnancy Loss Care
When a pregnant individual experiences an early pregnancy loss, it can be devastating. Care providers are in a unique position to support and guide families during a very difficult time in their lives. Providing referrals, resources, and follow-up after a loss can be very helpful for families. This new data element allows midwives to capture the number of post-pregnancy loss visits and may be useful for tracking time/workload associated with caring for clients who experience loss.