Birth: Everything you need to know

The birth of your child is a unique and unforgettable experience. To help you prepare for this special moment, we have put together all the important information for you.

Before giving birth

During the birth

After birth

Before the birth

Packing list for the birth

A well-planned packing list makes it easier to prepare for hospitalisation. Think about comfortable clothes, care products, documents and everything you need for the first few days with your baby. Here you will find our packing list with all the important items for the birth.

Packing list

A little bit more?

Our maternity clinics offer upgrades for your comfort! Just talk to your midwife.

The birth: phases and preparation in our clinic

Opening phase: the beginning of labour

The opening phase begins with the first regular contractions and ends when the cervix is fully dilated. During this phase, the cervix gradually dilates to around 10 centimetres. During this time, our midwives are at your side to support you with breathing techniques, massages and warm baths. Medical pain relief such as epidural anaesthesia (epidural) is also possible to provide you with relief.

Transition phase: the body prepares itself

The transition phase is the shortest, but often also the most intense phase of labour. The cervix is almost fully dilated and the contractions are strong and very close together. Our experienced obstetricians will help you to master this phase and prepare for the forthcoming birth. The correct birthing position can be particularly helpful during this phase.

Expulsion phase: the birth of the baby

The baby is born during the expulsion phase. This phase begins as soon as the cervix is fully dilated and ends with the birth of the baby. This involves pushing contractions that are triggered by the body's natural urges. Our clinics offer various options to make the birth as comfortable as possible, such as the use of a birthing stool or water births. Our midwives and doctors will support you in finding the best position and accompany you step by step until your baby is born.

Postnatal phase: expulsion of the placenta

The postnatal phase begins immediately after the birth of the baby and ends with the expulsion of the placenta. This phase usually lasts 10 to 30 minutes. Our medical specialists ensure that everything runs smoothly and that you can concentrate on your first time together with your baby in peace.

During the birth

Pain relief and anaesthesia during childbirth play a central role in the well-being of the expectant mother. There are various options to ease the pain of childbirth - from natural methods such as breathing techniques and massage to medical interventions such as epidural anaesthesia (epidural). Find out about the advantages and disadvantages of the different methods to make the best decision for your birth. Our experienced midwives and doctors will be happy to advise you on all the options for pain relief and anaesthesia during the birth.

After the birth

After the birth of a baby, there are many important tasks and information to take care of. From the first medical examination of the newborn (Apgar test) and the first breastfeeding to applying for the birth certificate and registering the child.

The baby ward

Our neonatal unit offers you and your baby comprehensive care and support shortly after birth. They have all the equipment needed to care for a newborn baby: bathtubs, changing tables, necessary monitoring equipment, etc.

We will assist you with breastfeeding, answer your questions about baby care and carry out important examinations.

The following chapters

Fertility treatment and fertility treatments at Swiss Medical Network

Desire to have children

Pregnant woman gently holding her belly and smiling happily

Pregnancy