Are you thinking of starting a family in Germany? If yes, then congratulations, you have made the right decision at the place. Germany provides many sound socialist facilities to its residents, and offers every care to ensure all its people lead not just a happy but also a healthy life . Some of my friends who recently had babies had nothing but praises for the medical facilities bestowed here, thankfully most of which are covered by your insurance. Another big relief to many (non German speakers) is, most of the doctors (with the exception of a few) can easily communicate in English, though the staff at the hospital may or may not.

One difference that we observe in Germany is the reliance on holistic or homeopathic medicines. Homeopathy traces its roots to the German physician Dr Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843). In fact, the German homeopathic drugs are exported all over the world and are very popular. But the level of endorsement of homeopathy by the medical fraternity in Germany is incredible. Not only the doctors, but the midwives too, recommend and perform acupuncture, acupressure and massage therapies for various medical conditions, particularly during labour. Herbal teas and homeopathic medicines are generously prescribed for you and for your newborn. The use of antibiotics is discouraged unless, absolutely necessary.

The main areas, to familiarize yourself with, when planning a family, are listed below-

• Choosing your Gynaecologist- Before you choose any gynaecologist ask yourself, whether you would like the same doctor who handled your pregnancy to be the one to deliver your baby? Or you are open to accepting any other medical professional provided by the hospital? If you have picked a doctor who doesn't work outside the clinic (Klinik) at the hospital (Krankenhaus), then he/she won't be the one delivering your baby. They will perform all your routine check ups, and supervise you all through your pregnancy, but once you go in labour, then the hospital takes charge of you.

• Deciding on the hospital- When picking up a hospital do a thorough research on what all facilities you would require at the time of your labour and delivery. You might be surprised to know that the maternity hospitals offer regular guided tours and hold information sessions. This provision is really informative for the would be parents, as they can see the facilities available at the hospital. One specific area where you need to give maximum attention is the paediatric care given by the hospital. While most hospitals have some paediatric care facility, not all of them have a full fledged paediatric ward in the hospital. If God forbid your baby is born with some ailment or is born premature, and requires extra care, your baby will be transferred to the nearest childcare clinic (Kinderklinik) while, you are still recovering in the same hospital after delivery. So make sure, you choose a hospital that has a proper childcare ward.

• The Mutterpass- Once your pregnancy is confirmed, your doctor will issue you a booklet called a mutterpass (mother's pass). The purpose is to keep track of the progress of your pregnancy, and to write down the results of the all the tests undergone by you during pregnancy, and your medical history for future reference. You are expected to bring it along, each time you come for any medical examination or to the hospital. The doctor delivering your child may or may not be the doctor who supervised you during pregnancy and hence, will require your mutterpass to study all the medical tests conducted on you, and information documented in it. It is very important so please carry it with you at all times during pregnancy.

• Midwives- In Germany, the main responsibility for delivering your child rests on a midwife, commonly called a Hebamme. Doctors only step in when there is some complication. It is recommended that you book a Hebamme in advance, as they remain very busy throughout the year. Websites like hebammensuche.de etc, provide a list of available midwives, you can specify the preferred language, location and services. She will assist you all during your pregnancy, and post delivery. If you don't choose a Hebamme in advance, the hospital concerned will provide you one. Hebammen are well trained medical professionals, both in traditional and modern medical techniques. They are on call 24 hours, and answer all your questions from breastfeeding to baby proofing your house, formula milk, bathing etc. Your Hebamme may take over your check-ups around week 35 or you may meet them in addition to your doctor. Your medical insurance or Krankenkasse covers 12 advice sessions with the Hebamme, along with the post delivery care for up to eight weeks. This includes daily visits until your baby is 10 days old.

• Medical examination during pregnancy- There are usually a maximum of 12 medical examinations that would be done on you before the baby's due date (Termin Date). Generally, it is one medical test per month up to the 32^nd week and then, after every two weeks. You may expect as many as six sonograms during a normal pregnancy followed by routine pelvic exams. During the routine medical exam, the doctor will check your blood pressure, periodic blood and urine tests and weight. The suggested weight gain per pregnancy is somewhere around 10-11 kilograms. With the nearing of your due date, the baby's heart rate and any contractions are closely monitored.

• Delivery- At the hospital, in addition to the delivery room, (called Keissaal in German) there is a maternity ward, doctors on duty around the clock, easy access to epidural or PDA (as it is commonly called in German) and emergency services in case of Caesarian or C section ( Kaiserscnitt). If your delivery is normal, you will stay for at least three nights, but if its through C-section, then at least up to five nights in the hospital.

• Childbirth Preparatory classes- These pre natal classes generally include exercises which lead to relaxation, what to expect during birth, how to handle the newborn etc. Lamaze classes are also provided by the hospital. Such classes are usually led by a Hebamme and include, a few intensive courses in a variety of languages. Register in these classes as early as possible, they are very beneficial. Also, make sure to complete them at least 3-4 weeks before your due date. This will mentally prepare you for the upcoming task of delivering your baby.

These are some of the areas you need to focus on well when starting your family. Knowing that you are pregnant is the most beautiful feeling in the world. And if you happen to be in Germany then it is an icing on the cake; a double celebration. You have every reason to feel fortunate, because here you have easy accessibility to the extensive maternity care options guiding you at every step during your pregnancy. The German health insurance covers almost all of your maternity care costs. Germany is indeed, one of the best places to be a new mother, as it proffers generous social benefits and work leave to both the parents after the birth of your baby. What all support and benefits you enjoy while you are looking after your baby will be dealt with elaborately in my next blog.