Birth in Japan

Where to give birth

In Japan, you have many choices as to where you want to give birth. Hospitals are the most popular place to give birth among the Japanese. Then there is the choice of giving birth in a smaller institutions where there will be an obstetrician supported by midwives. The midwife clinics are mainly run by independent midwives with home-like atmosphere. If you prefer to give birth at home, that is also a choice. In such case you would ask an independent midwife to attend your birth.

If you have any complications or at a high risk, then hospitals may be your choice.

Prenatal care

Japan is proud of their maternal and childcare services. Two prenatal check-ups during pregnancy are provided free of charge. The doctors tend to perform many tests, but if you feel you are over tested, then tell the doctor if it is part of the routine that is truly necessary. The district has free child-birth classes one can attend. Private institutions run maternity swimming, aerobics, and yoga.

You may be surprised at the number of restrictions doctors and nurses impose on pregnant women in Japan. They may tell you not to drive after 8th months in pregnancy, keep your feet warm, keep your tummy wrapped to keep warm, etc. However, judge according to the kind of life style you have. There are rituals during pregnancy such as the day you wrap the sash around your belly, and you may be interested in knowing them.

Postnatal care

Most hospitals expect you to stay for about a week, however, if you feel you can go home earlier, consult your doctor. Most foreigners prefer to leave earlier and the doctors will allow you to go home as long as you and the baby is doing well.

More information

If you would like to know more about having a baby in Japan, Care the World has published a booklet on birth in Japan. All you need to know about birth in Japan covers information such as,

- Where can I find English speaking ob-gyns?

- Which hospitals are popular among the foreigners?

- Are there child birth educators giving classes in English?

- What are you to expect on prenatal check ups?

- What are some customs during pregnancy?

- Can you submit a birth plan? if so, what kind?

- What is the hospital stay like?

- Can my husband attend the delivery? Can I keep my baby in my room?

- Are there any home visits by a local health nurse?

- How do I get my birth certificate?

The booklet also contains all the helpful words related to birth and delivery. The booklet is about 50 pages long. It can be purchased for 3000 yen or US$30.00, using your credit card or paying through PayPal. (For information on PayPal, click the gold seal below). The booklet will be sent to you via email with URL address which with a click, the booklet will appear on your screen in PDF format. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat Reader to read in the PDF format, you can download free of charge by clicking the yellow and red Acrobat Reader icon below.

Inquiries related to the booklet, or if you wish to pay in yen, please write to order@caretheworld.com