Description of
the right

You have the right to be accompanied by a person of your choosing when you receive medical information or need to make decisions about your health. That is including during labour.

Rules on how many people can accompany you and their minimum age vary from place to place.

In addition to your partner or another loved one, you can choose to be accompanied by a doula at your pregnancy appointments, during labour, during a termination of pregnancy, during your first moments with your baby or following a pregnancy or infant loss.

Healthcare settings must recognize your need for support and the benefits for your health. As much as possible, they should collaborate with the people you want by your side.

Starting at 14 years old, you have the right to refuse to be accompanied or visited by a particular person including your parents.

References

Act respecting social services and health services: sections 5 and 11

Professional obligation according to many other professional orders (list of professional orders)