An Expat Talks about What is Was Like Having a Baby in Barcelona, Spain

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

Barcelona

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

3 weeks ago

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 delivered in a hospital without any type of pain management. I did have the option of having an epidural, but decided against it. I stayed in the hospital for 2 days after the delivery. It was a positive experience overall, but I was somewhat disappointed with the lack of support for breastfeeding.

Expat Health Insurance

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

I didn't choose. They are assigned through the local Social Security System.

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

I would study more about breathing techniques to help with labor.

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

If you think you are progressing faster than they do, speak up! Also don't be afraid to ask for anything you need.