The arrival of a child is always an important life milestone. This section will provide crucial information about programs and services available to properly prepare and support you before, during and after pregnancy.

Whether you choose to follow the conventional route and give birth in a hospital or to use the Birth Centre instead, you will see all options available, as well as links to tips and additional public health information.

You will also find follow-up information for toddlers (0-5 years old) and information on assisted reproduction and the adoption process.

Guide From Tiny Tot to Toddler

Better Living with Our Child is a practical guide that contains scientifically supported information on pregnancy, childbirth and the first two years of a child's life. A printed guide is given free of charge to all new parents in Quebec at the beginning of their pregnancy. Parents who adopt a child can also receive a free guide during the adoption process.

Québec Newborn Hearing Screening Program (PQDSN)

The Québec Newborn Hearing Screening Program now enables early detection of hearing loss present at birth and the initiation of therapeutic and rehabilitation interventions before the age of 6 months.

It is intended for all residents of the Outaouais region born in a hospital, birthing center, or in Ontario, who are under 30 days old, and benefits from a direct link with the CUSUM service.

Screening is performed on the 3rd floor of the Gatineau Hospital either at birth or as an outpatient. If the child was born in Ontario, the nurse offers screening during the postnatal visit.

If your child is under 30 days old and has not yet been screened, you can contact the service directly to make an appointment at 819-966-6100 ext. 333350.

If your child is over 30 days old, you must request a referral to audiology from a healthcare professional.

Consult the brochure on the Newborn Hearing Screening Program.