Pregnancy in Mauritius takes place in a structured medical environment, offering future mothers comprehensive prenatal care, whether in the public or private sector. From initial consultations to postnatal follow-up, the care is accessible, supported by qualified professionals and aligned with international standards. For expatriates as well as residents, it is essential to understand the stages of medical follow-up, associated costs, delivery options, and insurance coverage conditions to experience this period with peace of mind.
Experiencing pregnancy in Mauritius
Once your pregnancy is confirmed, consult a gynecologist for initial blood tests, ultrasounds (at 12, 20 weeks, etc.), and screenings (blood sugar, toxoplasmosis, etc.). Prenatal care is then followed monthly, either at a public hospital or a private clinic.
Care includes the usual examinations: blood pressure, blood and urine tests, ultrasounds, weight monitoring, and hygiene advice. In terms of budget, expect to pay between 1,500 and 3,000 Rs per consultation, excluding test fees.
Public hospitals in Mauritius offer free and quality care, but private clinics, such as those in the C-Care group or Bon Pasteur Clinic in Rose Hill, offer more comfort, childbirth preparation classes, and private rooms.
Giving birth in Mauritius
Be aware that in Mauritius, you can give birth naturally or undergo a cesarean section according to your medical needs.
After birth, postnatal care and baby vaccinations continue at a health center if you delivered in a public facility, at the clinic where you gave birth, or at your chosen doctor's office.
Regarding the cost of a private delivery in Mauritius, expect to pay between Rs 25,000 and Rs 80,000, depending on the clinic and type of delivery. Make sure to request a detailed quote in advance and check that your health insurance covers maternity, as expenses can quickly add up with tests, medications, and postnatal care.
Also, keep in mind that most insurance policies impose a waiting period: you must be insured for several months before maternity coverage kicks in.
Postnatal care in Mauritius
In Mauritius, postnatal care begins at birth and continues for several weeks, first at the hospital and then at home.
For the mother, the first days are dedicated to checking physical recovery: blood pressure, bleeding, healing in case of cesarean or episiotomy, and successful initiation of breastfeeding. Special attention is also given to psychological well-being, as "baby blues" or postpartum depression may occur.
For the baby, checks focus on breathing, weight, feeding, and temperature. The first vaccinations are scheduled very early, and growth is recorded in the child's health book.
Visits are recommended at 48 hours, one to two weeks, and then six weeks after birth, allowing for monitoring the mother's recovery, discussing contraception, and tracking the baby's development.
Child vaccination in Mauritius
Mauritius has a national vaccination program that helps protect Mauritian children against diseases such as tuberculosis, hepatitis B, polio, measles, mumps, and rubella. These vaccines are provided free of charge in public clinics, ensuring broad coverage of the child population.
For children born to foreign parents in Mauritius, these vaccines, which are chargeable, are also available in the private sector.
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