(This story is sponsored by the Birth Place Lab at UBC.)

Pregnancy can be a time filled with so many new emotions and experiences.

Though we tend to hear about morning sickness, sleepless nights, and strollers— pregnancy, labour, birth, and parenting a newborn is a major life transition for many people. It is common for new parents to experience personal and cultural challenges along the way.

The processes of labour and birth mark a critical event for many and birth stories often become a vital part of the full stories of our lives. Too often we don’t have meaningful conversations about what matters most to us in our care.

Over the past five years, the Birth Place Lab has worked with communities across British Columbia to collect information about their preferences and experiences during pregnancy and childbirth. In the Changing Childbirth in B.C. study, more than 2,000 people filled out an online survey or joined a focus group.

The survey asked questions like “Did you feel like you were supported in your decisions?”, “Did you feel respected?”, and “Did you feel comfortable asking questions?” 

Those who responded shared some astounding stories.

People spoke of caring, supportive, and exceptional care, but also of discrimination, disrespect, and mistreatment that they encountered in the health care system. 

Now the study team is inviting you to a play inspired by thousands of stories that families disclosed about their childbearing experiences in B.C.  Afterward, join us for a talkback session. Bring your ideas on how to improve health care for parents and babies in B.C.

Tickets are free and refreshments and onsite childcare is offered (space is limited and must be booked in advance). The events will take place at Vancouver Public Library (350 W Georgia Street) in the Alma VanDusen Room and Peter Kaye Room on February 29 and at the Edmonds Community Centre (7433 Edmonds Street) in Burnaby on March 14.

To register for the event or for more information, click here.