Having a Baby in Belgium

Belgium is a country that offers a high standard of healthcare, and this extends to maternity and childbirth services. For expats and digital nomads living in Belgium, having a baby can be a reassuring experience due to the quality of care available. The country's healthcare system is well-equipped to support expectant mothers through their pregnancy journey, from prenatal care to postnatal support. However, navigating a new healthcare system in a foreign country can be daunting, especially when it comes to such a personal and significant life event. This article aims to provide an overview of what expats can expect when having a baby in Belgium, including choosing a healthcare provider, understanding prenatal care, insurance considerations, hospital choices, and more.

Choosing a Doctor

When expecting a baby in Belgium, one of the first steps is to find a gynecologist who will oversee the pregnancy. Many expats opt for a gynecologist who is affiliated with the hospital where they plan to give birth. It is possible to find English-speaking doctors in Belgium, especially in larger cities and areas with a high expat population. There are quite a few English-speaking doctors, but it's advisable to start looking early to find one who suits your needs. Additionally, expats may choose to work with a midwife for prenatal care and delivery, particularly if they are interested in a more natural birthing experience. Midwives in Belgium are well-trained and can provide comprehensive prenatal care, either independently or in collaboration with a gynecologist.

What to Expect for Prenatal Care

Prenatal care in Belgium is thorough and accessible. Expectant mothers will typically have monthly check-ups with their gynecologist or midwife, which become more frequent as the due date approaches. These appointments usually include a physical examination, weight checks, blood tests, and ultrasounds to monitor the baby's development. Belgium also offers prenatal classes, which can be a great way for expats to meet other expectant parents and learn about childbirth and parenting in a Belgian context.

Do Expats Typically Have Private Health Insurance when Having a Baby in Belgium?

Healthcare in Belgium is funded by a combination of state health insurance and private health insurance. Expats living in Belgium are required to register with a state health insurance fund, which covers a significant portion of medical costs. However, many expats also choose to take out supplementary private health insurance to cover additional costs, such as private rooms or specific treatments not fully covered by the state insurance. When having a baby, private health insurance can provide more options for choosing healthcare providers and can reduce out-of-pocket expenses for prenatal care and childbirth.

Giving Birth at Public vs. Private Hospitals

The experience of giving birth in a public hospital in Belgium is generally very positive, with high standards of care and well-equipped facilities. Public hospitals are accessible to everyone and costs are largely covered by the mandatory health insurance. Private hospitals offer more personalized care and often more luxurious accommodations, such as private rooms. However, the costs at private hospitals can be significantly higher, and it is important to ensure that your insurance will cover these expenses. Some expats prefer private hospitals for the added comfort and individual attention they can provide.

C-Sections in Belgium

Caesarean sections are relatively common in Belgium, with rates similar to other European countries. They are not considered unusual, but they are typically reserved for medical reasons rather than being elective. The decision for a C-section is usually made by the healthcare provider based on the health and safety of the mother and baby. Belgium's healthcare system supports both natural and C-section births, ensuring that each mother receives the appropriate care for her individual situation.

Pain Management During Delivery

In Belgium, various pain management options are available to women during labor and delivery. Epidural anesthesia is commonly used and widely available for those who want it. Other forms of pain relief, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or pain medication, are also options. Some women choose to use natural pain management techniques, and many hospitals and birthing centers support these choices. The availability of pain management options allows expectant mothers to choose the type of birth experience they prefer.

Hospitals with Neonatal Intensive Care Units

Belgium has several hospitals equipped with Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs), particularly in larger cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Leuven. These facilities are designed to care for premature babies or newborns with medical complications. The presence of NICUs in Belgian hospitals ensures that high-risk pregnancies and births can be managed with the highest level of care, providing peace of mind for expectant parents. When choosing a hospital, expats should consider the availability of a NICU if their pregnancy is considered high-risk or if they simply want to be prepared for any eventuality.