Having a Baby in Luxembourg

Welcome to the journey of having a baby in Luxembourg, a country known for its high quality of life and excellent healthcare system. For expats and digital nomads, the experience of starting a family here can be both exciting and daunting. Luxembourg offers a supportive environment for expectant parents, with access to top-notch medical care, a range of birthing options, and a multilingual medical community. Understanding the healthcare system and knowing what to expect can help make the transition into parenthood in this new country as smooth as possible.

Choosing a Doctor

When expecting a baby in Luxembourg, one of the first steps is to find a gynecologist who will oversee the pregnancy. Many doctors in Luxembourg speak English, catering to the large expat community, so finding an English-speaking doctor or midwife is generally not a problem. Expats can ask for recommendations from their local expat community, check with their embassy, or use the national health directory to find a suitable healthcare provider. It's important to choose a doctor who makes you feel comfortable and supported throughout your pregnancy journey.

What to Expect for Prenatal Care

Prenatal care in Luxembourg is thorough and follows a structured schedule of appointments and screenings. Expectant mothers will have regular check-ups with their gynecologist, which typically include blood tests, ultrasounds, and monitoring of the baby's development. Luxembourg's healthcare system ensures that all necessary prenatal screenings and tests are available and are often covered by the national health insurance. Prenatal classes are also available in various languages, including English, to help prepare for childbirth and parenting.

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

While Luxembourg's national health insurance covers most maternity-related medical expenses, some expats choose to have private health insurance for additional coverage. Private insurance can offer more choices regarding doctors and hospitals, as well as shorter waiting times for appointments. It can also cover services that may not be fully covered by the state system, such as private rooms during hospital stays or additional prenatal classes and alternative therapies.

Giving Birth at Public vs. Private Hospitals

In Luxembourg, both public and private hospitals provide high-quality maternity care. Public hospitals are well-equipped and offer comprehensive services, often at a lower cost due to national health insurance coverage. Private hospitals, on the other hand, may offer more personalized care, with options for private rooms and additional amenities. The choice between public and private hospitals usually comes down to personal preference, insurance coverage, and the desired level of comfort and privacy.

C-Sections in Luxembourg

Cesarean sections are relatively common in Luxembourg, with rates comparable to other European countries. The decision to perform a C-section is typically based on medical necessity, but maternal request can also be a factor. Luxembourg's healthcare system supports both natural and cesarean deliveries, ensuring that the safety of the mother and baby is the primary concern.

Pain Management During Delivery

Various pain management options are available during labor and delivery in Luxembourg. Epidurals are commonly used and are widely available in hospitals. Other forms of pain relief, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and alternative methods like water birth, acupuncture, or hypnobirthing, may also be offered depending on the hospital or birthing center. Expectant mothers are encouraged to discuss pain management preferences with their healthcare provider well in advance of their due date.

Hospitals with Neonatal Intensive Care Units

Luxembourg has several hospitals equipped with Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs), ensuring that premature or ill newborns receive specialized care. These facilities are located in major cities such as Luxembourg City, offering advanced medical technology and highly trained staff to care for the most vulnerable infants. Parents can have peace of mind knowing that, should the need arise, their newborn will have access to the best possible care.

Expats Talk about Having a Baby in Luxembourg

"I did not attend the birthing class (my friend went to the class that the Maternite offered (which is free 8 sessions of birth preparation, taught in French). The most important thing is to learn how to breath during labor. I gave birth at the Maternité Grande Duchesse Charlotte (the other one in Kirchberg I heard is also good). I stayed for 5 days (I had a normal/natural delivery but I had some difficulty with breastfeeding). I shared a room with another lady, and she's pleasant, so I actually enjoyed having a roommate. The whole experience was wonderful, I could always ring the bell when my baby cried or when I needed something. I was new to the motherhood, so I really had no clue what to do, how to breastfeed, how to change diaper, and so on. The staff insisted that I ring the bell whenever I needed anything. The food was great. The facility was excellent. I'm very pleased with my stay at Maternite. After I went back home, I was entitled to 3 visits from the midwife. She came and checked my baby, weighed him, and checked on me too. It was great! I chose a midwife that my neighbor recommended, but if you don't know anyone, the hospital will arrange for you. Also, there are papers you will need to fill out to get the allocations, but don't worry, the hospital or the doctor will tell you, and give you the form. If you work, you will get one extra month off if you breastfeed your baby. This paper can be given to you when you go for the check up 1 month after you give birth," commented an expat living in Luxembourg.

"-Visit the hospital before giving birth to familiarize yourself. -Practice breathing in advance -Choose and book a place in creche well in advance if you plan to send your baby to creche. After you give birth, you will be tired and very busy to do anything but taking care of your baby, and yourself. -Meet with other expecting moms before you give birth if you have chance. I became food friends with a few expecting mothers and we have supported each other a great deal. You can meet them through the meetings of BabyWellclinic. I met mine through French class, and also two of them are my neighbors," said one expat living in Luxembourg.