Notice or declaration of pregnancy

5-6 weeks pregnant, Health advice

A tool for better prenatal care

In Quebec, the Ministry of Health has implemented a computerized procedure to ensure faster and more appropriate care for pregnant women. This initiative, available online under the name Ma Grossesse, allows for better structuring of perinatal services according to each woman’s needs.

What is a pregnancy notification?

A pregnancy notification is a short questionnaire that a woman fills out as soon as she learns she is pregnant. It is designed to collect basic information so that she can quickly be offered the services available in her area. It also serves as a planning tool for the healthcare system, which can thus gain a better understanding of the pregnant population in each region.

This form has recently become available online throughout Quebec.

Follow-up after submitting the notice

A healthcare professional usually contacts the expectant mother after receiving the notice. They check whether medical follow-up is already in place with a doctor or midwife, ideally before the 10th week of pregnancy. If this is not the case, they refer the patient to an appropriate resource based on her preferences.

This professional also assesses the specific needs of the pregnant woman. She may refer her to community resources or specific programs, depending on her situation.

For example, a young woman with a low income could be quickly referred to the OLO program, which offers food vouchers (eggs, milk, frozen vegetables) and personalized support from the beginning of pregnancy.

Early contact for better prevention

Establishing contact in the first weeks of pregnancy allows for preventive action and health promotion even before the first medical visit. The practitioner can ask key questions, such as: Is she taking her prenatal vitamins? Are there any risks associated with her job? Is she taking medication that is compatible with pregnancy?

A parallel with the birth declaration

The pregnancy notification plays a similar role to the birth registration submitted after childbirth. In this case, a duplicate is automatically sent to the ministry, which then triggers registration for various family programs (family allowance, health insurance card, etc.). Similarly, the pregnancy notification activates the relevant services during the prenatal period.

Filling out the pregnancy notification is therefore a simple but essential step in order to receive personalized support throughout the pregnancy. It is the mothers-to-be who benefit the most from this.

Marie Fortier
The baby specialist

Updated: April 2025.

References :

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The mariefortier.com website and the comprehensive information it contains are intended as practical tools for expectant parents preparing for the arrival of their baby. These are not meant to replace the skills, knowledge, and experience of qualified health professionals who are familiar with the facts, circumstances, and symptoms specific to each individual. As such, Marie Fortier Inc. and its employees cannot be held responsible for any potential adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of information provided on this website. It is the user’s responsibility to consult a physician or other qualified health professional for personal matters concerning them.