Having a Baby in Denmark

Denmark is known for its high quality of life and comprehensive healthcare system, which extends to maternity care. For expats and digital nomads, having a baby in Denmark can be a reassuring experience due to the country's supportive policies and services. The Danish healthcare system is designed to provide a high level of care for all residents, including expats. Expectant parents can look forward to a system that emphasizes prenatal care, parental leave, and child health. However, navigating a new healthcare system and understanding cultural norms around childbirth can be challenging for expats. This article aims to provide an overview of what it's like for an expat to have a baby in Denmark, covering key aspects such as choosing a healthcare provider, prenatal care, hospital choices, and more.

Choosing a Doctor

When expecting a baby in Denmark, expats should register with a general practitioner (GP), who will then refer them to a midwife or an obstetrician for prenatal care. It is common for pregnancies to be primarily managed by midwives unless there are complications. Finding an English-speaking doctor or midwife in Denmark is relatively easy, especially in larger cities and towns. The Danish healthcare system is accommodating to non-Danish speakers, and many healthcare professionals are proficient in English. Expats can ask their GP for recommendations or search online for English-speaking practitioners in their area.

What to Expect for Prenatal Care

Prenatal care in Denmark is thorough and well-structured. Expectant mothers will have regular appointments with their midwife or doctor, which typically include routine check-ups, blood tests, and ultrasounds. Denmark offers a number of prenatal screening tests, which are optional. The frequency of these appointments increases as the pregnancy progresses. Additionally, prenatal classes are available to help parents prepare for childbirth and parenting, and these are often offered in English in larger cities.

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

Denmark's public healthcare system covers childbirth and prenatal care, so private health insurance is not a necessity for expats. However, some expats may choose to have private health insurance for additional services or for coverage while traveling outside of Denmark. It's important to note that even without private insurance, expats have access to high-quality maternity care in the public healthcare system.

Giving Birth at Public vs. Private Hospitals

In Denmark, the majority of births take place in public hospitals, which are well-equipped and staffed with experienced healthcare professionals. Public hospitals offer a high standard of care and are free of charge for residents, including expats. Private hospitals or birthing centers are less common and typically cater to those who prefer a more private setting or desire certain amenities. The choice between public and private care may also depend on the availability of services in the expat's region.

C-Sections in Denmark

Caesarean sections are less common in Denmark compared to some other countries, with a focus on promoting natural births whenever possible. However, C-sections are performed when medically necessary, and the decision is made based on the health and safety of the mother and baby. The rate of elective C-sections is relatively low, and the healthcare system encourages expectant mothers to consider natural birth options first.

Pain Management During Delivery

Denmark offers various pain management options during delivery, including epidurals, which are widely available. Other methods, such as water births, acupuncture, and nitrous oxide (laughing gas), may also be offered. The approach to pain management is generally patient-centered, and expectant mothers are encouraged to discuss their preferences with their healthcare provider well in advance of their due date.

Hospitals with Neonatal Intensive Care Units

Hospitals with neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) are located in major cities across Denmark, such as Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense. These facilities are equipped to care for premature babies and those with medical complications. The high standard of neonatal care in Denmark ensures that infants who require special attention receive the best possible treatment. Expats living in more remote areas may need to travel to these cities if their baby requires NICU services.

Having a baby in Denmark as an expat can be a positive and well-supported experience. The Danish healthcare system's focus on comprehensive prenatal care, natural birthing practices, and postnatal support aligns with the country's overall emphasis on welfare and quality of life. Expats can expect to navigate the system with relative ease, especially with the widespread availability of English-speaking healthcare professionals.