Even if you have been and are expecting it to happen, you are never truly ready for this moment.

There it was.

The results my husband and I have been waiting for.

On that small window of a tiny stick read the word “Schwanger.”

You do not have to know too much German to know what that word meant.

“Pregnant”

After finding out that I was pregnant in Germany, I did what every “normal” person does: consult Dr. Google with my most-pressing questions. I sat down with my partner, notebook & pen. Determined to become the “best” and “most prepared” parent (spoiler alert: you are never truly prepared for this role nor can you ever be a “perfect” parent). A few opened browser tabs later, I realized that there was a lot of information to digest.

I had to dig through numerous websites with fancy lingo to find answers to simple questions relating to being pregnant in Germany. After lots of hours of research, I compiled a list of things I wish I had known about earlier on in the process.

Prepare for your Pregnancy Abroad in Germany

While these tips are specific to my experience with childbirth in Germany, you can apply these to pretty much any country you live in.

  1. Build your parent community: Through birth prep classes, Facebook and meet-up groups, blogs, etc. finding other people who are going through the same journey is important. Find your expat parent community to support you during your pregnancy and beyond.
  2. Tour your hospital/birth center options before signing up: It is all about how a place makes you feel! Was the staff welcoming and helpful? Does the space make you feel comfortable and relaxed? Do they offer classes or additional support for expecting parents? How are the rooms set up?  Consider touring these spaces before deciding. Try comparing at least two birth locations in your area and pick the one that fits best with the labor experience you want to have.
  3. Communicate your needs: Whether working with your doctor, birthing staff, partner, pediatrician or anyone along your parenting journey, it is important to communicate your needs. Your birth story is unique. While you cannot always have control of how things go, you can communicate what you need from others to help support you while pregnant in Germany. For example, hospitals and birth centers have everything you need to make your birth experience a relaxing one. From maternity underwear and pads to diapers and clothing for your baby. Some of these things are freely given to you (depending on the hospital/birth center/staff). Other times, you need to ask for it. So do not be afraid to speak up and communicate what you need to make your birth experience more comfortable for you and your family. In general, advocating for yourself will be a constant theme throughout your pregnancy and parenting journey abroad in Germany.
  4. Get savvy with second-hand shopping: I love that about Germany – the openness and encouragement for second-hand shopping. There are many opportunities to shop for gently used items – online via Vinted or Ebay Kleinanzeigen, from parent groups or neighbors, or at your local Flea market. Remember, simply because you might be expecting your first child, it does not mean that you have to buy everything brand new. Plus, it’s a great way to meet and connect with other families and be kind to the environment.
  5. Be patient: Whether you are making your 100th call to find a Hebamme or Kinderarzt, or figuring out the process to sign up early for a Kita placement – remain patient and persistent. In searching for the support you need, you will have to make a few calls and complete multiple forms. This is completely normal and all a part of the process.

Patience & Persistency are the Name of the Game

Oftentimes, the German healthcare system can feel bureaucratic and laws are written in complicated language. But, I hope this helps you feel in control of your journey. Pregnancy and childbirth are already life-altering experiences. I hope that these tips help you feel more confident and guide you on where to begin.

So that when you see the small window reading “Schwanger”, you can focus on soaking in the exciting news instead of feeling overwhelmed.It takes a village to raise a child, so consider The Eltern Hub as part of your family in Deutschland!