Where Should I Give Birth in Israel?!
Congratulations, mama-to-be!
Excitement for your growing family is likely swirling with a million questions, one of the most important:
Where should I give birth in Israel?
Choosing a birthplace goes beyond location – it’s about finding a safe, supportive haven for this powerful and vulnerable experience.
In Israel, you have the choice of hospital od home birth and the majority of women choose a hospital birth.
Maternity wards are a source of income for hospitals. This can be a positive force for change – your voice matters! If enough women request birthing options not currently offered by a hospital, they may be more likely to adapt.
However, this also means hospitals prioritize advertising and make it attractive for “customers” to buy their “product”.
Hospital tours are valuable for getting a gut feeling, but unbiased information is crucial for making a truly informed decision! For example, hospital tours often showcase beautiful rooms with birthing pools during their hospital tours, leading you to believe a water birth is readily available. But upon arrival, you might be told water births aren’t permitted for first-time moms, a midwife isn’t qualified to assist, or your baby is “too big” based on an estimate with a 15% margin of error..
Think about it: When booking a hotel, you wouldn’t rely solely on their website photos, right? You’d check reviews too! There are amazing resources available to help you: There’s a Hebrew app called “Yoldot” that offers birth stories and detailed information on birthing options in Israel.
Live in Jerusalem? I’ve created a free booklet packed with information on birth options in the city.
Interested in a home birth? You have the right to choose where to give birth. In Israel, to have the support of a licensed midwife at home, you must meet specific criteria. Although it is a private service, many women find it worthwhile, as it offers a safe and comfortable option for women with low-risk pregnancies.