Contents
When to register for the maternity ward?
As soon as our pregnancy is confirmed, we must remember to reserve our maternity ward, especially if we live in the Paris region. The number of births is very high in Ile-de-France, and with the closure of small structures, many establishments are saturated. Availability is even rarer for renowned or level 3 maternities (specializing in high-risk pregnancies).
In other regions, the situation is less critical, but you should not delay too long, especially in large cities, in order to be certain of giving birth in the maternity hospital of your choice.
Is it compulsory to register in a maternity hospital?
There is no obligation. All establishments are required to accept you when you give birthwhether you are registered or not. Otherwise, they could be accused of failing to assist a person in danger. However, reserving your place in the maternity ward is more than recommended: you will certainly feel less stressed about giving birth in a place where you know you are expected and that you know.
Also know that you are not obliged to choose the place of your delivery according to its proximity to your home: neither maternities nor hospitals are sectorized.
Maternity registration: what documents do I need to provide?
Registration usually takes place at the secretariat of the maternity unit you have chosen. Go in the middle of the day to arrive during office hours and with your vital card, of your social security certificate, of your Insurance card and all documents relating to your pregnancy (ultrasounds, blood tests). To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is better to inquire with your mutual insurance company about your level of support (a phone call is enough). Because the cost of a childbirth varies according to the establishment (private or public), possible excess fees, comfort costs etc.
It is also at the time of registration that you will be asked if you prefer a single or double room, and if you wish to have television.
Maternity registration: know the contents of the kit
Registering early enough in the maternity ward allows you to know the elements (infant milk, diapers, bodysuits, nursing pads, etc.) that the maternity ward provides or not. Since it is better to pack your maternity suitcase (or keychain) a little in advance, knowing what maternity plans can be a plus.
Book maternity in the Paris region
In Ile-de-France, places are limited, due to the high concentration of population and the closure of a large number of small structures. It is therefore necessary to book maternity as soon as possible, as soon as the pregnancy test is positive. In addition, if we reserve a place in two maternities at the same time, we potentially block access to another pregnant woman. Finally, don’t rely too much on “waiting lists”. Even if all maternity hospitals have them, it is very rare that you will be contacted again.
Finally, do not forget either the existence of birth centers or home deliveries, for those who want a less medicalized birth!