Maternity Leave Preparation To-Do List

One of the biggest choices you have to make as parents-to-be is which maternity hospital you choose to bring your child into the world. Preparing for maternity leave and a smooth pregnancy requires a lot of planning and decision making. If you’re set on giving birth in Hong Kong, Gift Hampers Hong Kong has got just the checklist for you to ensure you’re on the right track.

Maternity leave to-do list: how to manage your maternity leave

As a working woman, there could be a few things you need to pass on before you go on your maternity leave, but fear not! Getting them sorted and out of the way will put your mind at ease. You will feel in control and know exactly what to do and where to go.

• In the first trimester, check out all the company policies and guidelines surrounding your leave, as well as benefits and any help you can get. This is a significant time for you and your baby, so don’t be afraid to ask for all the help you need.
• Give your boss and colleagues plenty of notice and reassure them you will be back. They may congratulate you and wish to celebrate with you.
• In the second trimester, it is time to inform your clients and commence your maternity leave planner and transitioning checklist so that there are as little delays to cover your work as possible.
• In the third trimester, remind yourself that you have managed a lot and can relax a lot more now. Don’t stress over small details but prepare yourself for the hospital later on to ensure and smooth delivery. This includes:
  • Having the contacts for the hospital authority, the labour unit and the delivery unit
  • Planning or preparing transportation to the hospital
  • Getting your hospital bag ready. You can pack hospital files, night gowns and a change of clothes, pampering items, or anything that could get you in a relaxed mood.

Should I choose a private or public hospital?

Hong Kong is home to a wide variety of well-established maternity hospitals, so it can be a little tricky to choose which one suits you best. Understand what your personal needs are and ask yourself if you have any special requests during your stay at the ward. Do your own research on what there is to offer and be aware of the private and public hospital charges involved before making that final decision. Checking reviews and asking an experienced midwife, friends or family members about their personals experience at certain hospitals can help you gain valuable insight into the treatment you will get there.

Pros and Cons for Public Hospitals

Public hospitals are significantly more affordable. They are obliged to admit you, are very-well equipped and provide you with labour room facilities. The C-section rate is known to be lower in public hospitals than in private hospitals.

However, as most public hospital staff speak Cantonese, there may be a language barrier for foreigners. There are more restrictions in terms of your birth plan and food in the hospital. There is less support from the midwife and healthcare staff. Your partner may not be allowed to be with you during delivery and there may be very little privacy (many patients in one room, students in public teaching hospitals).

Pros and Cons for Private Hospitals

Private, semi-private and shared rooms are offered in these hospitals. There is a maximum of four patients per room, so you will have more privacy. English is spoken in all private hospitals and there are better food choices. Patients get help with breastfeeding and nursing and the obstetrician-gynaecologist will give you plenty of support throughout your pregnancy. Your partner will also be encouraged to help.

On the other hand, private hospitals are usually significantly more expensive. You also have to secure your spot in advance with a down payment. Private hospitals may not be well equipped to deal with emergency cases, resulting in the patient being transferred to a public hospital or having to deal with more costs.

Products to get for you maternity leave

Gift Hampers Hong Kong has some of the best hampers to get you prepared for your pregnancy. Baby care is one of our specialities, and we know just the thing new parents need.

1. PERSONALIZED GIFT SET FOR TWINS: Twins are coming your way? Double the joy with this fabulous collection of all the baby essentials! Price: HK$1,319.00

2. PERFECT GIFT SET FOR BABY BOY: You will adore the elegant fashion designs in this wonderful gift set for your little boy. Price: HK$1,409.00

3. PRINCESS SWAN GIFT SET FOR BABY GIRL: Pamper your princess with this perfectly pink hamper full of items that are fit for royalty! Price: HK$1,159.00