An Expat Talks about What is Was Like Having a Baby in Tokyo, Japan

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Tokyo

If a friend of yours living in the same country were expecting a baby, what advice would you give her?

When choosing a hospital or birthing facility, it is important to make sure that the staff is comfortable providing services to an expat patient and that they can provide their care in your native language. Additionally, if your insurance plan does not cover childbirth in Japan, you will want to be aware of the expected cost of delivery and any additional fees that you may need to pay. It is also important to research the cultural and medical differences that may exist for delivery or post-natal care, to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident when it comes time for your labor and delivery. Additionally, depending on the mother’s nationality, you may need to apply for a custodial waiver at the embassy or contact a pediatric medical coverage agent to determine any special requirements that may apply. Lastly, be sure to have support on-hand - enlist the help of a doula, call a Japanese healthcare facilitator, or have a friend or family member with you through the labor and delivery process.