An Expat Talks about What is Was Like Having a Baby in Graz, Austria

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Graz

How recently did you give birth in the country that you are reporting on?

2002

Describe your experience giving birth there. What type of facility did you go to? What (if any) type of pain management did you use? How long did you stay in the hospital? Was it a positive experience? Etc...

I did not receive any medication in my epidural, and the doctor mumbled something to the effect of "no pain, no gain". I was furious and had to end up having a c-section emergency and then they knocked me totally out, I woke up to a slap on the face by the nurse (instead of a pinch on the cheek), she said AUFWACHEN and I didn't have enough energy to slap her back. So, it was very stressful birth. They keep you in the hospital for 2 weeks after a c-sec. And for a normal delivery, its about 3-4 days. LKH Graz....

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How did you choose your doctor, midwife or other type of medical professional?

I had a private female doctor who was recommended by a relative of my husbands, but when I had probs, she sent me straight to the LKH (hospital) for all my furthur checkups. I was supposed to deliver in a private clinic with a midwife, but it all changed when I had a few probs.

If you were to have another child in this country, would you do anything differently in terms of preparation and/or the delivery?

Yes. I would talk to the anthesiologist BEFORE the delivery, and would make sure that I was heard. I would ask for English speaking people but good luck.

If a friend of yours living in the same country were expecting a baby, what advice would you give her?

I would suggest she find a good midwife, and cover all the bases and communicate exactly all her options so that everything is understood before the labor begins. I would have her tour the hospital, ask questions etc..