Pregnancy & Birth
From the first antenatal check-up to the postpartum period: here you will find reliable information for well-supported pregnancy in Switzerland.
Life Stages / Pregnancy & Birth
Antenatal examinations
In an uncomplicated pregnancy, around seven check-ups with a gynaecologist or midwife are planned, supplemented by two ultrasound examinations (additional ones if medically indicated). Blood pressure, weight, blood and urine values as well as the child's development are checked, among other things. Choose a practice early that will accompany you throughout the entire pregnancy.
Nutrition & vaccinations during pregnancy
A balanced diet with folic acid, iodine, and iron supports the child's development; raw or insufficiently heated meat and raw fish should be avoided. For dairy products, the recommendations of the BLV apply: avoid raw milk and raw cream as well as soft and semi-hard cheeses — you may eat extra-hard and hard cheeses made from raw milk after removing the rind. The flu vaccination and the whooping cough vaccination (pertussis) are recommended in every pregnancy. If the calculated due date falls between early October and end of March, an RSV vaccination for the mother is additionally recommended between the 32nd and 36th week of pregnancy to protect the newborn — unless you were already vaccinated against RSV in a previous pregnancy. An equally effective alternative is to protect the child after birth with a long-acting antibody. Please discuss any individual questions with your doctor.
Birth preparation & place of birth
Antenatal classes, often led by midwives, help you and your partner prepare for the birth. In Switzerland you can choose between hospital, birth centre and – in the case of uncomplicated pregnancy – home birth. A birth plan records your wishes but remains flexible.
Costs & insurance relating to birth
Check-ups, ultrasounds and delivery are covered from the start of pregnancy without Franchise and coinsurance – from the 13th week until 8 weeks after birth, cost-sharing is additionally waived for all other treatments as well. Clarify additional services such as a private room with your health insurer early on. Register the child with the insurance provider promptly after birth.
Postpartum period
After the birth, a midwife will also accompany you at home – this follow-up care is covered by compulsory basic insurance. Physical recovery, breastfeeding, and the new family situation take time; signs of postpartum depression should be taken seriously and discussed with a doctor. Do not hesitate to accept support.
The three trimesters at a glance
- 1st trimester (weeks 1–13)First check-up with confirmation of pregnancy, blood tests and counselling. First-trimester ultrasound (approx. weeks 11–14), with first-trimester screening if desired. Fatigue and nausea are common.
- 2nd trimester (weeks 14–27)Usually a phase with fewer complaints. Second ultrasound (weeks 20–23) for organ assessment, screening for gestational diabetes (weeks 24–28). Foetal movements become noticeable.
- 3rd trimester (weeks 28–40)More frequent check-ups and assessment of foetal position; additional ultrasounds if medically indicated. Birth preparation, clarification of place of birth and hospital bag. Preparation for birth and postpartum period.
Figures, deadlines and what insurance covers
- Check-up examinations
- 7 check-ups + 2 ultrasoundsIn case of an uncomplicated pregnancy, a mandatory benefit of the basic insurance.
- No cost sharing
- from 13th week until 8 weeks after birthMaternity benefits are exempt from the outset; during this period, cost-sharing is also waived for all other treatments.
- Maternity benefit
- 14 weeks, 80 % of the salaryCapped at a maximum amount per day; registration via the employer or the compensation office.
- Leave for the other parent
- 2 weeks, 80 % of the salaryTo be taken within six months of the birth.
- Register child with health insurance
- within 3 months after birthThen insurance cover applies retroactively from the date of birth.
- Midwife postnatal care & breastfeeding counselling
- Mandatory benefit under compulsory basic insuranceHome visits during the postpartum period and breastfeeding counselling are covered; scope depending on situation.
General orientation to the Swiss system, not insurance or legal advice. Amounts and rules may change annually and vary by canton — your policy, your compensation office and the linked official sources are binding.
Official contact points
Independent advisory services outside FindMyDoc.
- Schweizerischer Hebammenverband Find an independent midwife for antenatal care, birth preparation and postpartum period in your region.
- AHV/IV — Maternity compensation Official information sheets on entitlement, amount and registration.
- ch.ch — Birth and parenthood Government portal: registration of the child, civil status, insurance, leave.
Unsure which service is responsible for your concern? This conversation will guide you to the right practice.
This collection is for guidance only and does not replace medical advice. For health concerns, please consult a doctor.