In the health sector, the global shortage of resources due to the pandemic began to affect Canada in July. Ontario hospitals, however, were only affected last week.

In a news release, Ontario Health confirmed that 16 per cent of hospitals in the province have less than a week’s supply of epidural catheters. This means a huge physical, mental and emotional challenge for pregnant women living in Ontario.

The importance of an epidural catheter is that it helps administer pain medication during labor. This makes the birthing process a little less painful and reassures expectant mothers.

The shortage of this device is not only occurring in Canada, but has affected the global population. Despite this, Ontario Health says pregnant women shouldn’t worry, as “most of these sites have not flagged their level of supply as an urgent concern.”

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Spokespersons for this health facility add that in all cases to date, the shortage of epidural catheters has been resolved by sharing between hospitals in other provinces. In addition, Ontario Health mentions that direct requests have been submitted to suppliers.

But sadly, epidural shortages aren’t the only thing plaguing Ontario hospitals. For a few days, the population has been warned of the shortage of health personnel. Which could directly affect childbirth.

Of course, hospitals have reduced space to accept pregnant women and in some cases have closed intensive care units for the summer.

According to nurse Amie Archibald, who works in the Hamilton area, staff who are active are doing everything they can to double their efforts with patients. “It can be very difficult and morally taxing.”

However, she mentions that the importance of skilled personnel like nurses helps ease the anxiety of childbirth. So if the shortage persists, the birthing process could become even more stressful.

Finally, it should be mentioned that most hospitals did not flag their level of supply as an urgent concern. Additionally, the Ministry of Health continues to work with hospitals experiencing low supply levels.

However, due to the importance and vulnerability of the birth process, health institutions are publicizing the situation. In this way, it is possible for pregnant women in Ontario to take the necessary precautions and consult their primary care physician directly.

You can also read: Plan to address Ontario’s nursing shortage

I’m Estefany, a communicator from the National Autonomous University of Mexico. Culture, music and food bring joy to my life. I fell in love with Canada and the Timbits in 2019, but I’m also a Hallyu lover and have collaborated in media specializing in Asian culture. Follow me and let’s talk about it. ☺️