Covid-19 Update May 2024

Hello Strathcona Midwifery Families,

Our policies have once again been updated with regards to Covid-19! Please review this information carefully before contacting your midwives, and keep in mind that these policies may need to shift again in the future.

 Appointment Information:

Surgical masks are optional in our clinic. Public health has lifted the mask mandate in health care settings during the spring and summer months. We expect to mask mandates to cycle seasonally. Some midwives and clients may still choose to wear masks in the clinic, during home visits, and in the hospital.

One partner/support person and child may join in-person for each appointment as long as they are feeling well. Please do not bring children with a runny nose, a cough, or a fever.

If you, or anyone in your household, have symptoms of any illness such as cough, runny nose, or sore throat, we ask that you wear a mask to help protect the midwives, staff, and other clients.

Commonly Asked Questions:

Should I get my Covid booster?

Yes. We are recommending that all pregnant people follow the public health and SOGC recommendations and get their Covid vaccines and boosters. We recommend getting your booster as soon as you are eligible. You will be offered either the Moderna or Pfizer and either are an appropriate option. We do not recommend “shopping around” for an alternate booster vaccine option to what you are being offered.

Should I test for Covid?

If you have symptoms outlined by public health, or have had a close contact (not wearing a mask and within 6 ft) please get tested and isolate as recommended here.

When to get a Covid-19 Test - BC CDC

Where should I get a Covid test?

Book an appointment at a testing site near you. You can find information regarding testing sites here

Should I inform my midwife if I am Covid positive?

Yes. However, this is NOT an emergency call, and you do not need to phone the pager number unless you have severe symptoms that require emergent care or have concerns that need immediate attention. If you have mild symptoms or are asymptomatic, please send our office an email to inform us that you are covid positive. We will discuss it at your next scheduled appointment. 

If your next midwifery appointment falls within your isolation window, please call the clinic and have your appointment changed to a virtual appointment. We will rebook you in clinic when appropriate.

What is safe to take in pregnancy to manage Covid symptoms?

Generally managing symptoms with natural remedies is best. Make sure you stay well hydrated and nourished and rest as much as possible. 

To manage fever and body aches it is safe to take up to 1000mg of acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 6 hours. Please do not take Tylenol cold and flu as this has added ingredients that are not safe for pregnancy.

To manage nasal congestion use a saline nose spray (such as Salinex), and drink lots of water. 

To manage cough: drink lots of fluids and sip on warm tea or broth. You can use regular cough drops. Sometimes antihistamines can help with a cough, and Diphenhydramine (found in Benadryl) is safe to take in pregnancy. If you need to use a cough syrup, one with dextromethorphan (found in Benylin) will help if you have a persistent dry cough. If your cough is wet, do not use an expectorant cough syrup without talking to a pharmacist or midwife.

We continue to wish you all the best through these changing times!

The Strathcona Midwifery team