An Expat Talks about What is Was Like Having a Baby in Paris, France

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

Paris

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

1 year 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 have given birth in two different countries (Mexico 3 years ago & France 1 year ago) with two different philosophies.

The Mexico experience was by far, the best. Customer service from both my OB/GYN and the hospital was 5-star. However, episiotomy was nearly "required".

France was a little more bumpy...difficult to find a place to give birth. Paris is over-run with children so you must reserve a hospital or clinic for your due date the second you find out your pregnant or you risk giving birth on your own. Nevertheless, good experience overall.

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

Mexico: Recommendation from other friends.

France: Step 1: Choose clinic/hospital you want to give birth in. Step 2: If you OB/GYN doesn't deliver there, get a recommendation for one who does. Step 3: Don't give birth in August (I did which made it nearly impossible to find a doctor who wasn't on vacation; I had to switch 3 times during my pregnancy!).

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

Mexico: No, would go back to have another child there.

France: Find a doctor I like better.

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

See all of the above.