Popular Maternity Hospitals in Hong Kong

As parents-to-be, you would want to bring your child into the world at the best maternity hospital you could find. Many people in Hong Kong would suggest either one of three places for you to go to when giving birth in this city: Queen Mary Hospital, Matilda International Hospital or St Paul’s Hospital.

Although they are all well-renowned establishments for their maternity services, many other excellent choices are also available. Before you choose where to stay, understand what your needs are and if you have any special requests during the maternity-ward stay. Choosing between staying at a reputable public hospital or a fantastic private hospital can different vastly, so it is important to do your own research prior to making that final decision. Be sure to ask an experienced midwife or friends and family members for their own personal experience at certain hospitals and check out reviews on the internet for other people’s opinions.

Public Hospitals: Pros and Cons

Public hospitals are obliged to admit you and provide you with labour room facilities. They cannot turn you down or turn you away. As expected, it is very cost-friendly to give birth in a public hospital. They are also well-equipped in the case of a medical emergency. For those who prefer natural births, the C-section rate is lower in public hospitals than private hospitals.

There may be a language barrier for non-Cantonese / Mandarin speakers as most public hospital staff speak only these dialects. Only Chinese food is offered in public hospitals. You may not have much choice in your own birth plan. You won’t have an obstetrician-gynaecologist and there is less support from the midwife. Partners may not be allowed to witness the birth or be in the delivery room. There may be no privacy as there could be up to ten patients in a room. Public teaching hospitals may require students to assist or observe your delivery.

Private Hospitals: Pros and Cons

Private hospitals in Hong Kong offer private, semi-private and shared rooms, with a maximum of four patients per room, so you will get a lot more privacy then staying in a public hospital. Patients get a lot of personalised support, such as help with breastfeeding and nursing. English is spoken in all private hospitals which is convenient for international patients. International meals and better food choices are offered at private hospitals. The obstetrician-gynaecologist will give you plenty of support throughout your pregnancy and your partner will be encouraged to help.

However, private hospitals are usually quite expensive, and you have to secure your spot with a down payment. In the case of a medical emergency, private hospitals are not well equipped to deal with such cases and the patient could either be transferred to a public hospital or could face a drastic increase in cost.

Preparation

During your maternity leave, you will need to be well-prepared for at least the next few weeks to come. Being ready will put you at ease as you will know exactly what to do and where to go. Note down the day and night phone numbers for the hospital authority, the labour unit and the delivery unit. Prepare transportation to the hospital and the hospital bag, including hospital files, night gowns and change of clothes, lotions, and anything that could get you in a relaxed mood. Also have the nursery items prepared or, if your partner will be staying, items could be brought to keep him entertained. Be aware of where to go when you arrive at the hospital, including the after-hours entrance, so that you will not get flustered even when you are in a hurry.

3 Different Styles of Baby Hampers for First-time Parents

Here at Gift Hampers Hong Kong, we have prepared some baby hampers that are perfect for first-time parents. Not only will they give you a helping hand, you will no longer need to worry about packing everything as these will include all the items you need to keep your baby happy.

Ensure that your baby is warm and well comforted with this Organic Newborn Baby Gift. Includes the highest quality organic swaddle, soft toy and comforter. Price: HK$859.00

Bath time has never been more fun with this wonderful Bubble Bath Set for Babies. It has everything you need, from cleansing gels and cleansing milks to body lotions and creams to give your baby the softest skin. Price: HK$698.00

This Essential Gift Set for Newborn Baby hamper has got all the essentials for your baby so that you need not worry about leaving anything behind. Find inside a fine selection of baby products, including toys, cups, books and rattles to keep the little one entertained. Price: HK$2,999.00