Finland is known for its high-quality healthcare system, which includes a strong focus on maternal and child health. In this article, we will explore the options for giving birth in Finland, as well as the process for registering a birth and the attitudes towards abortion.
Giving Birth in Finland
In Finland, the vast majority of births take place in hospitals, with only a small percentage of women opting for a home birth. The hospital system in Finland is known for its high quality and accessibility, with many hospitals offering a range of services to support pregnant women and their families.
Prenatal Care
In Finland, prenatal care is provided to all pregnant women through the public healthcare system. Women are typically advised to book their first prenatal appointment as soon as possible after they find out they are pregnant. During these appointments, healthcare providers will monitor the health of the mother and the developing fetus, provide information about nutrition and healthy habits, and offer support and advice for any concerns or questions the mother may have.
Giving Birth in Hospital
Most women in Finland give birth in hospital, either in a maternity hospital or in a designated maternity ward within a larger hospital. The vast majority of births are vaginal deliveries, although cesarean sections are also performed when necessary.
In Finland, women are typically encouraged to have a support person with them during labor and delivery. This can be the father of the baby, a family member, or a friend. Hospitals in Finland also offer a range of pain relief options during labor, including epidurals and gas and air.
After delivery, most women stay in the hospital for a few days to recover and receive additional support and care. In Finland, hospitals offer a range of postpartum services to support new mothers, including lactation support and counseling on infant care.
Home Birth
While the vast majority of births in Finland take place in hospitals, some women do choose to give birth at home. Home births are typically attended by a midwife, who provides care throughout the labor and delivery process. Home births in Finland are generally safe, and women who opt for this option are often those who have had previous positive experiences with home births.
Registering a Birth in Finland
In Finland, all births must be registered with the Local Register Office within seven days of the birth. The process for registering a birth is relatively straightforward, and can be done in person or online.
To register a birth in Finland, the following steps must be followed:
Obtain a medical certificate of birth from the hospital or healthcare provider where the baby was born.
Fill out the application form for registration of birth. This can be done online or in person at the Local Register Office.
Provide documentation to prove the parents’ identity, such as a passport or ID card.
Provide documentation to prove the baby’s identity, such as a hospital discharge document or birth certificate.
If the parents are married, provide documentation to prove the marriage.
Once all documentation has been submitted, the Local Register Office will process the application and issue a birth certificate.
Attitudes towards Abortion in Finland
In Finland, abortion is legal and widely accepted. The decision to have an abortion is considered to be a personal choice, and is typically not subject to judgement or stigma.
In Finland, abortions are provided through the public healthcare system and are free of charge for all women. Women can access abortion services at any stage of pregnancy, although there are some restrictions on late-term abortions.
The majority of abortions in Finland are performed in the first trimester, and most are performed for personal reasons such as financial concerns, relationship issues, or the desire to focus on existing children.
Overall, Finland has relatively liberal abortion laws and a supportive health care system that provides free and accessible abortion services. However, as in any country, there are still some who oppose abortion and women may face stigma or barriers to accessing services in certain areas.