Having a Baby
The New York Times recently ran a brief story about the increase in home births in America. While still only about 1% of total births, the rate of homebirth has increased 20% since 2004. Readers’ experiences of homebirth and opinions about it were solicited at the end of the article. Most replies were positive, but one negative voice stood out:
For those who want a birth experience without medical intervention, birth houses (Josanin) run by midwives are an ideal option, and fortunately there are some who are able to accomodate English speakers.
Like a lot of new mums I found shopping for a pram or stroller almost as fun as shopping for teeny tiny baby outfits. Prams & strollers have progressed beyond just being a functional piece of equipment to transport baby from A to B, to rides jam-packed with features, accessories, fashionable looks, and price tags that make you wonder whether you should buy a car instead. There are many different factors involved when choosing one for your child, and if you need to buy or bring a pram or stroller to use in Japan, there will be a few extra points to consider.
Whether you decide to give birth in a hospital, birthing clinic, or at home, you may wish to take some prenatal classes and/or use a doula or other form of labour support to help you before or during the birth. Fortunately there are some excellent English-speaking maternity support services available.
If you would like to give birth in a hospital, these Tokyo hospitals are popular with foreigners and can provide some level of English language service.
Prenatal and postnatal exercise classes are especially designed to strengthen the bits that need strengthening, loosen the bits that need loosening, and relax the bits that needs relaxing. Babies welcome!
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