Expectant mothers can now invite two people to be with them during birth at Saskatchewan Health Authority maternal units.
The authority announced the changes to its anti-COVID-19 restrictions on June 12.
Those people can be family members and support persons like doulas, coaches or cultural support persons.
All maternal patients and their designated persons will be screened for COVID-19 upon arrival and be required to have a temperature check, wear a mask, participate in hand hygiene and follow physical distancing guidelines. Designated persons who are symptomatic for COVID-19 or who have other risk factors will not be permitted.
The designated persons must be consistent during the duration of the patient’s stay. They may leave the facility but cannot be switched out for another family member or support person.
Only designated persons will be permitted. Other visitors, including siblings, will not be allowed.
All maternal patients will be offered an optional COVID-19 swab upon admission. The designated persons will not be offered a COVID-19 swab.
