Giving birth in UK | ExpatWoman.com
 

Giving birth in UK

40
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 April 2016 - 12:25

I've been reading a few old posts and just wanted to clarify a few things.

I currently live in Saudi Arabia (that forum is way too quiet) and pregnant. Was considering giving birth here as the hospital we go to is very good and I like my doctor but seeing as there is a huge delay on passports for newborns here and because of citizenship issues I think going back to Scotland is best. Am I correct in thinking:

1. I won't be charged for birth because I have lived abroad for less than 5 years.
2. Should I go to the doctor's while I'm back in Scotland for summer and explain my situation or wait until I go back for birth (November time)

Has anyone had any recent experience of this (particularly in Scotland) and is it okay just to show up and explain my situation? We do have insurance and it's not about trying to cheat the system, if we have to pay we have to pay and I'm sure our insurance would cover part of it. I just don't know what to expect. Thanks!

147
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 April 2016 - 10:23
You are right, you won't be charged. Anyone would be given the same quality of healthcare although there is a move to try and recoup costs for non eu citizens. It is always best to be seen ahead of delivery, to make choices about hospital, birth centre, home birth and to start building relationships with key staff like your midwife. Also good to have antenatal record here so staff can anticipate needs and make sure advice at time is appropriate. Choice in labour is much easier when planned. Care during pregnancy and perinatal period is safer if people know you are pregnant and due to deliver. You need to consider the sort of delivery you want and make this known - epidurals, for example may not be available over 24 hours in smaller units and cannot be given in birth centres. There are higher risks associated with consultant led unit deliveries for low risk mothers etc. Best to book in advance but if you don't you'll still be looked after.
 
 

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