Berlin Birth Guide

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Preparing for Birth in Berlin: Advice from a Doula

Preparing for birth in Berlin can feel overwhelming. I have been there two times, as my two kids were born here (one during COVID, after I just moved to Berlin and did not know anyone!).

With the right guidance and support, you can approach it feeling calm, informed, and confident. As a French doula living and working in Berlin, I’ve created my Berlin birth guide to help families navigate the entire process, from pregnancy to postpartum, with clarity and support.

My guide is free, I am happy to share it and grow it!

Here are some key steps to help you prepare for this life-changing journey.

Choose the Right Place to give Birth in Berlin

Finding the birth location that matches your needs and preferences is important. My guide features an article to support your decision making (hospital? Geburtshaus? home birth?), and a detailed map of hospitals, birth centers in Berlin.

My guide also includes a “birth questions” checklist to help you evaluate each option, from environment and policies to staff support and atmosphere.

Prepare Birth with Emotional and Practical Support from a Doula

Birth is as much emotional as it is physical.

Continuous support from a trained professional such as a doula can complement midwives, partners, and family, creating a calm, safe, and empowering birth!

I offer support before, during and after birth.

Know Your Rights

Understanding your rights during pregnancy and birth is empowering.

Print my Safety Card, and have it in your Mutterpass.

On this card you have a clear reference for informed consent, respectful care, and your choices during labor. Understanding you rights is key, to help ensure your voice is heard and your wishes respected! Get your partner and doula to use it too and to memorize the BRAIN acronym, it's so powerful.

Write Your Birth Plan

A birth plan is your way to communicate your wishes clearly to your care team. The birth plan itself is just an outcome. I think what is most important is the process of writing it: because yo will have to reflect on what you want for this birth, what your boundaries are, the interventions you want to avoid or decline and why! Here is a blog article for writing your plan step by step

My guide provides free examples, helping you outline preferences for labor, pain management, interventions, and who you want present. Even if plans change, having your preferences written down gives you confidence and clarity.

I also offer 1-1 consultations for supporting you writing your birth plan together. We will really take the time to talk about your story, questions and wishes, whilst talking about the reality of birth and the healthcare system in Germany.

Take Care of Administrative Tasks Early

Berlin’s maternity care system involves appointments, paperwork, and insurance forms. Completing these ahead of time allows you to focus on your birth rather than administrative stress. My guide details the essential steps, including registrations, forms for midwives, and hospital procedures, so nothing surprises you at the last minute.

Shop smart

Having the right supplies ready can make labor and postpartum life smoother. My guide includes a comprehensive list of things to buy for your maternity pack, labor comfort, and the first weeks with your baby. This includes essentials for both hospital and home settings, so you feel prepared no matter where you give birth.