Frequently Asked Questions

Giving Birth in the Dominican Republic: FAQs for Expats

Planning to welcome your baby in the DR? Here’s a friendly, straight-to-the-point guide to what most expat families want to know. Skim, breathe, and bookmark. 💛

1) Best hospitals & how they differ

Short answer: Most expats choose private hospitals (more flexible policies, better amenities). Public hospitals cost less but are busier with less individualized care. I’ll help you compare options based on your priorities.

2) English-speaking providers

Yes—especially in private settings. I can point you to English-speaking Ob/Gyns and pediatricians and provide bilingual doula support when it counts most.

3) Costs & insurance basics

Typical private-hospital ranges: vaginal birth and cesarean vary by doctor, hospital, and length of stay. Coverage depends on your local or international insurance. I’ll help you estimate based on your plan and chosen hospital (and flag any deposits due at admission).

4) Pain relief (epidurals, etc.)

Epidurals are available in most private hospitals; access can depend on anesthesiologist scheduling. We’ll also prepare a toolkit of non-pharmacological comfort measures so you’re never left without options.

5) Who can be with me?

Depending on the hospital, partners are usually welcome during labor; doula presence is common but should be arranged in advance. However, for the moment of birth itself only a handful of hospitals allow a companion. I can help you coordinate expectations with your provider and hospital so there are no surprises at the door.

Your Birth, Your Journey

6) C-section rates & your rights

The DR’s C-section rates are high, especially in private care. You still have the right to ask questions, consent, or decline interventions. We’ll prep you to have clear, respectful conversations—and a solid Plan B.

7) Baby’s paperwork

You’ll receive hospital documents to register the birth with the Civil Registry, then complete any embassy/consulate steps for your baby’s citizenship. I share a checklist so you have every document ready when you need it.

8) Breastfeeding & rooming-in

Policies vary. Some hospitals encourage immediate skin-to-skin and exclusive breastfeeding; others default to nursery time or formula. We’ll select a hospital aligned with your preferences and include these wishes in your birth plan.

9) Birth plan respect

Bring it—short, clear, and in Spanish + English works best. I’ll help craft a one-pager and review it with your provider ahead of time so the team is on the same page.

10) Postpartum support

Discharge is typically 24–48 hours (vaginal) or 3–4 days (cesarean). Postpartum home visits aren’t standard, but I offer postpartum doula care, lactation support, and practical recovery guidance.

How I help:

Navigation + preparation + support: hospital/doctor orientation, birth plan strategy, bilingual advocacy, comfort techniques, and postpartum follow-through.

Ready to plan your birth in the DR?

• Book an Orientation Call (45 min) – get your tailored roadmap and hospital/Ob recommendations curated for your values and budget.

Doula Services

Supporting families through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum in the Dominican Republic.

Birth Options

Guidance on local birth options and navigating the medical system in the Dominican Republic.

Childbirth Classes

Classes and workshops blending practical preparation with emotional support for informed and meaningful birth experiences.

Leiko's support made my birthing experience in the Dominican Republic empowering and stress-free. Her knowledge and guidance were invaluable!

Maria S.

★★★★★