Average gestational age (weeks) at first prenatal care visit, Canada and the provinces/territories, 2006/2007
Source: CICH graphic created with data adapted from Public Health Agency of Canada, Maternal Experiences Survey, 2006-2007. http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/rhs-ssg/pdf/tab-eng.pdf -accessed July 24, 2017.
According to the Maternity Experiences Survey, the vast majority – 95% of women – had their first prenatal visit in the first trimester.
On average, Canadian women had their first prenatal visit at 7.5 weeks gestation. That varied between the provinces and territories – from 6.4 in British Columbia to 9.2 in Québec.
Implications
Prenatal care is important for the health of the mother, as well as for the fetus and infant. It is likely to be most effective if women begin their prenatal care early – in the first trimester – and continue it at regular intervals throughout their pregnancy. The quality of care – that is what happens in each visit – is also important.1
1Tayebi T, Hamzehgardeshi Z, Shirvani MA, Dayhimi M and Danesh M. Relationship between Revised Graduated Index (R-GINDEX) of Prenatal Care Utilization & Preterm Labor and Low Birth Weight. Glob J Health Sci. 2014 May; 6(3): 131–137.