In Croatia, the majority of births take place in hospitals, with home births being relatively uncommon. Pregnant women in Croatia have access to a range of prenatal care services, including regular check-ups with an obstetrician or midwife, ultrasounds, and access to educational resources and support groups.
Private hospitals are available for those who can afford them, but public hospitals also offer obstetric care. The quality of care can vary widely depending on the region and the hospital, and it’s recommended that pregnant women research their options and choose a hospital or healthcare provider that they feel comfortable with.
Registering a Birth in Croatia
If you give birth in Croatia, you will need to register the birth with the local registrar’s office (mjesni ured) within 30 days. Here are the steps to follow:
Obtain a birth certificate from the hospital where the birth took place. This certificate should include information about the baby’s name, date of birth, place of birth, and the names and identities of the parents.
Go to the nearest local registrar’s office and present the birth certificate, along with identification documents for both parents.
Fill out the birth registration form.
The local registrar’s office will issue a birth certificate for the baby. This document is important for accessing social services, such as education and healthcare.
Pay the registration fee. The fee varies depending on the region and the type of registration.
Attitudes and Legislation Surrounding Abortion in Croatia
Abortion is legal in Croatia under certain circumstances. The law allows for abortion up to 10 weeks of pregnancy, and up to 20 weeks in cases of rape, incest, or fetal abnormalities. After 20 weeks, abortion is only allowed if the mother’s life or health is at risk.
There is some opposition to abortion in Croatia, particularly among conservative and religious groups. However, public opinion on abortion is generally supportive of women’s right to choose.
Giving birth in Croatia is most commonly done in hospitals, with a range of prenatal care services available to pregnant women. Registering a birth in Croatia involves obtaining a birth certificate and filling out a registration form at the local registrar’s office. Abortion is legal in Croatia under certain circumstances, with support for women’s right to choose among the general public.