Airdrie Briar Hill midwife visits include the following:

• Check in and questions answered
• BP
• Weight
• Palpation of abdomen to determine fetal position
• Measuring of Symphysis-Fundal Height (size of uterus)
• Fetal Heart Auscultation

The 36 week visit is one hour and will include all of the above. During this visit, the home birth supply list, Vitamin K for baby, Management of third stage of labour and other wishes for the birth will be reviewed.

Movements will get stronger as you progress into the third trimester. As your baby grows, you will become more aware of sleep and awake patterns. Every baby is different and you will get to know what is normal for your baby. If you are concerned about fetal movement at or after 28 weeks gestation, please call the pager to speak with your midwife.

It is normal for iron levels to decrease a little in pregnancy. If levels of iron decrease below a certain level, you may develop symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness/feeling light headed, shortness of breath, weakness, cold hands/feet, irregular heart beats or pale skin. Your midwife will offer testing in pregnancy to help make sure your iron levels are at appropriate levels to help you feel better through pregnancy and postpartum. See resources for more information on Iron deficiency below.

Tips for increasing iron absorption:

• Eating iron rich foods with citrus/ Vitamin C
• Avoiding calcium while you eat your iron rich foods (calcium blocks iron absorption)
• Cooking with an iron fish
• Cooking with cast iron pans/ pots
• Resources: Iron deficiency anemia and you
• Book: Lily NicholsReal Food for Pregnancy

Vaccinations during pregnancy are recommended to help prevent transmission of Pertussis or Whooping Cough to your baby when they are born. The SOGC also recommends the flu shot in pregnancy.

We recognize that vaccinations are a personal choice and respect your ability to make an informed choice with information obtained through various sources. If you have any questions, please ask your midwife.