Once you’ve decided where you want to give birth, there’s no formal registration process. Hospitals have to accept anyone who shows up to give birth, so there’s technically no need for registration. However, some like to be prepared, so let the hospital of your choice know you’ll be giving birth there and they can take down some of your preferences to smooth the intake when you’re in labour. You don’t have to worry about not getting your first choice; hospitals can’t turn you away. You may have one person accompany you in the delivery room and, if this isn’t your significant other, now is a good time to identify that someone. Other preferences can include a single room or a water birthing room, provided they have one.

Once you’re registered, you just have to wait until you’re in labour and then show up; the hospital will take care of the rest.

Public and private health insurance will cover the cost of a hospital birth, as well as any subsequent hospital stay. This includes pain medication or related surgeries as long as it’s ordered by a doctor. If you aren’t paying for extras such as a single room, you’ll likely be in a room with three or four new mothers. Nurses will be dogmatic about breastfeeding and can sometimes come off as aggressive. Let a midwife know if you’re feeling uncomfortable.