Dealing with an Unexpected Pregnancy

If you suspect you may be pregnant, see a doctor as soon as possible after you have missed a menstrual period. 

An unplanned pregnancy can be very emotionally stressful. Ask for support from your friends, family, doctor, and community services. You are not alone.

While you decide whether to continue your pregnancy, it is important to stay healthy. Harm to the fetus in the early stages of development cannot be undone. Avoid drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes, keep yourself safe, and eat nutritious foods.


Emergency Contraception

If you have had unprotected intercourse within the past 5 days (120 hours) and do not wish to become pregnant, “morning-after” or emergency contraception pills are available over-the-counter from a pharmacy ($40-50), your nearest family planning clinic, family doctor or treatment centre.

The sooner you take the emergency contraception pill, the more effective it is. More information on emergency contraception.


Adoption Services

If you decide not to become a parent, one of your options is to place your baby with an adoption service.


Abortion Services

Abortion services in British Columbia are covered under the Medical Services Plan and are provided by hospitals or licensed clinics. To access abortion services, contact your family doctor, family planning clinic, or "Sex Sensetoll free at 1-800-739-7367.

Attempts to induce a miscarriage can threaten your life. Please see a doctor.


Help Phone Lines

Sex Sense Line 
Toll-Free 1-800-739-7367

Pregnancy Options Referral Service 
Toll-Free 1-888-875-3163

Services

News & Events

Midwife and pregnant patient talking on a couch

Island Health takes steps to stabilize and improve south island maternity services

Pregnant patients and care providers in the south island region will soon have access to more hospital-based support thanks to the development of an In-House Registered Midwife (IHRM) position at Victoria General Hospital.

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baby bed

A safer sleep for baby: Island Health’s Baby Bed program serves families across the region

Families across the Island Health region can access the Baby Bed program that promotes safe sleep for babies and strong connections between families and caregivers. 

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Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation Funds New Mobile Service for Youth Wellness

Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation Funds New Mobile Service for Youth Wellness

Thanks to generous financial support from the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation, a mobile service for youth wellness will soon be hitting the road.

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