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Prenatal Care and Parental Benefits in Canada

Prenatal care in Canada is covered under provincial health insurance at no direct cost to the patient. The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC) recommends routine prenatal visits every 4–6 weeks during the first and second trimesters, every 2–3 weeks from weeks 28–36, and weekly from week 36 until delivery. Standard prenatal screening includes blood work, glucose tolerance testing, group B streptococcus screening, and at least one ultrasound (typically at 18–20 weeks).

Canadian parents are entitled to maternity and parental leave benefits through Employment Insurance (EI). Maternity benefits provide 15 weeks of income replacement at 55% of earnings (up to a maximum of $668 per week in 2026). Parental benefits offer either the standard option (40 weeks at 55%) or the extended option (69 weeks at 33%). Quebec operates its own parental insurance plan (QPIP), which provides higher replacement rates and coverage for self-employed workers.

EI Maternity and Parental Benefits (2026)

The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) provides tax-free monthly payments to eligible families with children under 18. For the 2025–2026 benefit year, maximum annual amounts are approximately $7,787 per child under 6 and $6,570 per child aged 6–17. Benefits are income-tested and begin to phase out at family net income above $36,502. Apply for the CCB promptly after your child’s birth to avoid delays.