I had my baby, now what?

While you just want to get home and snuggle that baby, don’t forget these important details within that first week home.

  • If applicable, add baby to your or your partner’s medical benefits with work – most benefits providers only allow a 30 day window after the birth to register.

  • Register baby’s birth online* to get a birth certificate, enrol baby in the Medical Servies Plan, apply for Canada Child Benefits and apply for baby’s Social Insurance Number.

    Note: Registration is free but there is a fee for the birth certificate which requires a credit card. You can also pay in cash, in person at the Service BC Office, located at 2500 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay or call 250-897-7500.

  • Following up with your care provider about dates for baby and mom check ups, vaccination schedule & location, public health contact for support first 6 weeks.

3 AM concern about baby and not sure if it’s urgent?

Babies do all sorts of weird things at weird hours! From oddly coloured poops to gassy tummies, a funky looking rash, running a temperature or an accidental bonk on the head.

When you have a concern and it’s “off hours” for your care provider or clinics, call Healthlink BC at 8-1-1 for 24/7 help with non-emergency situations. You will have the option to speak with a registered nurse if you have concerns about baby and aren’t sure whether you should see your care provider or go to the ER. These amazing nurses will be able to help guide you to the appropriate resources. Make sure to have baby’s healthcare number on hand when you call in.

Breastfeeding Support

Comox Valley Public Health Unit
Drop in 10am to 12pm Thursdays or call to make a same day appointment (7 days a week) 250 331 8520
8:30 am to 4:30 pm
961 England Ave, Courtenay

Breast Milk Depot
Nanaimo General Hospital

Childcare Support

Period of PURPLE Crying
Information to help parents understand this time in their baby’s life, from 2 weeks of age and continues until about 3 to 4 months.

PacificCARE
Comox Valley Child Development Association
237 3rd Street, Courtenay, BC V9N 1E1

Post Partum Anxiety and Depression Support

Comox Valley Mental Health and Substance Abuse
Tel: 250 331 8524
Drop in: Mon to Fri, 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm
Wednesdays, 1pm – to 2pm
441C England Ave, Courtenay

Comox Valley Public Health Unit
Tel: 250 331 8520
Call for a same day appointment
Daily intake 8:30am to 4:30pm, 7 days a week
961 England Ave, Courtenay

Pacific Postpartum Society
Telephone coaching for women and partners
Call Toll Free: 1 885 255 7999

Clinical Counsellors
Private pay and Employee Assistance Program

Baby’s Best Chance: Parents’ Handbook of Pregnancy and Baby Care

A reference guide to help new parents from pregnancy, through birth, and in the parenting of a baby up to six months of age.

Babies Best Chance PDF Book