Having a Baby in Shanghai: A Complete Maternity Guide for Expats

Finding out you are expecting while living in a foreign country can be overwhelming, but Shanghai offers some of the best maternity care in Asia. The city is home to renowned specialized maternity hospitals, such as the Red House Hospital (Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University) and the Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital.

Public VIP Wards vs. International Clinics

Many expats choose the VIP or International divisions within top public tertiary hospitals. These wards offer private rooms, English-speaking obstetricians, and medical standards that often exceed Western equivalents due to the sheer volume of cases handled. Alternatively, fully private international hospitals provide a more 'hotel-like' experience, though they often transfer complex emergency cases to the tertiary public hospitals.

Pain Management and Birth Plans

A common concern for Western expats is the availability of epidurals. Epidurals are widely available in Shanghai's VIP maternity wards, but it is crucial to discuss this with your OB/GYN early in your pregnancy and include it in your birth plan. Midwife support and water births are also becoming increasingly available.

Post-Birth Documentation

Navigating the paperwork after birth is critical for expats. You will need to obtain the official Chinese birth certificate (Medical Certificate of Birth), which requires both parents' passports exactly as they appear. This document is essential for applying for your newborn's passport at your embassy and subsequently their Chinese visa.

Choosing the right hospital and navigating the maternity packages can be complex. We help expat families compare maternity wards, arrange hospital tours, and understand pricing. Email us at DocinChinaService@gmail.com to start planning your maternity journey in Shanghai.