View Mothers:Childbirth
Where to have your baby
Consider factors such as timing, your physical and psychological support network, insurance in both countries, and where you would generally feel most comfortable and stress free. Western women who have had a baby in their own country and a baby in Japan often found their experience in Japan to be more positive. It should be noted that hospitals/clinics in Japan, with shared labour rooms, are reluctant to allow fathers to be present, but most allow for the father to be present at the actual birth. Most hospitals or clinics specify that mother and child stay for one week following the birth, with the baby staying in a nursery.
Birth at a large or international hospital
This is the best option if you have complications related to your pregnancy. Mothers who are relatively new to Japan feel more comfortable in a Westernised environment, where English-speaking doctors and staff are available. Large and international hospitals also usually provide the option of an epidural while small hospitals rarely do.
Birth at a small or state-subsidised hospital
If you do not have problems communicating in Japanese, this is a most viable and cost-effective alternative to giving birth in a hospital that caters to foreigners. All of the facilities, medical support, and resources are there, but are not available in English.
Birth at a small neighbourhood gynaecological clinic
This seems to be the popular choice for Western women who have lived in Japan and have either a Japanese husband and/or relatively few problems communicating in Japanese. An obstetrician, and one or two midwives or nurses, run these clinics.
Birth at a midwife clinic
These are similar to the neighbourhood clinics, but the primary caregiver is a licensed midwife. The emphasis is on natural childbirth.
Home birth
A midwife visits you on occasion during a period of time before and after the baby is born, as well as attending to you during the birth.
In Japan, the general attitude towards pain relief with a normal vaginal birth is that it is not necessary. Most Japanese women do without. Pain relief is offered in most clinics and hospitals if you ask for it, but it is not given as a general matter of course.
If you have Japanese national health insurance, you will usually receive a ‘a Gift’ of ¥200,000 to ¥450,000 one month after your child’s birth. Medical expenses for birth in Japan can range from ¥280,000 to ¥800,000, depending on the way you choose to give birth. Complications are covered by national health insurance.
Birth plan
Once you have decided where and how to have your baby and which caregiver/doctor will assist you with the birth, you should write a birth plan. This plan should indicate your preferences regarding all birth procedures.
Birth preparation classes
These classes provide information about the changes in your body and allow you to prepare for the birth of your baby. One of the most worthwhile benefits of a birthing class is the friends you make.