Preparing for Your Baby’s Arrival in Japan
Saturday, February 15, 2025
A Complete Guide for Foreign Moms
As a foreign mom in Japan, here's what to know:
Japan’s national health insurance provides a lump-sum birth allowance (shussan ikuji ichijikin) of ¥500,000 to offset delivery costs. Get a Maternity Health Handbook (母子健康手帳) early from your city office for records and check-up coupons. Book your hospital 20 weeks before your expected delivery date—space is limited so securing this early is necessary. If you plan to return to your home country for delivery, inform your doctor as soon as possible, especially if you have been working with a doctor in your home country from the beginning of your pregnancy.Epidural Anaesthesia in Japan
One significant challenge for foreign moms in Japan is the limited availability of epidural anesthesia during childbirth. Epidurals are rare with extra fees reaching up to ¥150,000. Unlike in countries like the U.S. (67% epidural rate) or the U.K. (70%), only about 5% of women in Japan opt to receive epidurals. Facilities that provide epidurals often impose restrictions—limited hours, extra costs, or eligibility criteria such as low-risk pregnancies. Without access to pain relief options, many women face excruciating labor pain, which can feel daunting or traumatic.In Japan, epidurals are usually pre-planned. It is recommended that you book your preferred options well in advance, as availability may be limited. Ensure that any agreements you sign in Japan are in English or have been properly translated by a translator, hospitals may deny epidurals if the window for reserving the epidural has passed.
Save these dates and attend regular check-ups
You will need to attend regular check-ups throughout your pregnancy to monitor your health and your baby's development. The frequency and content of these check-ups vary depending on your condition and the facility you choose, but they usually follow this schedule:- 4 to 10 weeks: First visit to confirm pregnancy and estimate the due date.
- 10 to 16 weeks: Second visit to check blood pressure, weight, urine test, blood test (including HIV test), and ultrasound scan.
- 16 to 22 weeks: Third visit to check blood pressure, weight, urine test, and ultrasound scan.
- 22 to 28 weeks: Fourth visit to check blood pressure, weight, urine test, blood test (including glucose tolerance test), and ultrasound scan.
- 28 to 34 weeks: Fifth visit to check blood pressure, weight, and urine test.
- 34 to 36 weeks: Sixth visit to check blood pressure, weight, and urine test.
- 36 to 38 weeks: Seventh visit to check blood pressure, weight, and urine test.
- 38 to 40 weeks: Eighth visit to check blood pressure, weight, and urine test.
- After 40 weeks: Weekly visits until delivery.
Preparing for Delivery in Japan as a foreign mom
Essential To-Dos Before Delivery:
Arrange Transportation: If you don’t have a car, consider registering for a reliable maternity taxi service for emergencies.
Notify Your Employer: Share your due date and maternity leave plans. Not receiving a salary during leave? Apply for the Maternity Allowance (Shusan Teate) from the government, which covers 42 days before birth to 56 days after delivery.
Know Your Leave Options: Maternity leave can sometimes be extended up to 1 year, depending on your company’s policy. Paternity leave is also available, though not widely taken.
Attend Prenatal Classes: Many hospitals, community centers, or online services offer classes that cover:
- Stages of labor and signs of delivery
- Pain relief options and breathing techniques
- Breastfeeding and newborn care basics
- Postnatal recovery tips
Pack these essentials for your hospital stay: Health insurance/My Number card, passport/residence card, bank book/cash card, phone & charger, clothes & underwear, nursing bra & pads, toiletries, towel & bathrobe, slippers, snacks, book/magazine, camera, staff gift (optional), baby clothes/diapers, blanket, and car seat.
Delivery day
On delivery day, contact your hospital or clinic and follow their instructions. Bring your hospital bag and documents. Upon arrival, you'll be checked by a doctor or midwife, fill out forms, and pay a deposit before being taken to the labor room.
After your delivery, you’ll be moved to a recovery room, where you and your baby will be monitored. The staff will offer guidance on post-delivery care.
Bonus Tip: Listen to positive affirmations during the last weeks before delivery and practice taking deep breaths in and out. Remember, contractions can't be stronger than you because you are the contraction.
Receiving Postnatal Care in Japan
In Japan, postnatal care is thorough and supportive, ensuring both you and your baby are well taken care of. After giving birth, you’ll stay at the hospital or clinic for up to a week. During this time, medical check-ups and tests will be done for both you and your baby. You’ll receive guidance on breastfeeding, bathing, changing, and soothing your baby, and have the chance to ask any questions. You may check out some institutes near your location that can guide and support you after delivery during your postnatal period.
Don't forget to register your baby's birth at the local city office within 14 days. Bring your Maternity and Children Health Handbook, health insurance/My Number card, passport, residence card, and your baby’s name and birthdate.
Conclusion About Giving Birth in Japan.
Giving birth in Japan is an empowering experience with exceptional healthcare, strong support systems, and generous subsidies for mothers. While hospitals offering epidurals may be rare, they are available, and the country’s high-quality care ensures you and your baby are in safe hands. By preparing in advance and adjusting your expectations, you'll overcome any cultural or language barriers and embrace the joy of motherhood in Japan.
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