Jordan is a country in the Middle East that has a population of approximately 10 million people. The birth rate in Jordan has been decreasing over the past few decades, with the total fertility rate at 2.8 children per woman in 2021. In this article, we will explore the options for giving birth in Jordan, how to register a birth, and the attitudes and legislation surrounding abortion in the country.
Giving Birth in Jordan
The vast majority of births in Jordan take place in hospitals, with only a small percentage of births occurring at home. Most hospitals in Jordan have well-equipped maternity wards that offer a range of services to pregnant women, including prenatal care, childbirth classes, and postnatal care.
The cost of giving birth in a hospital in Jordan can vary depending on the hospital and the level of care required. Some hospitals offer private rooms for an additional cost. There are also some public hospitals that offer free or low-cost maternity services to Jordanian citizens.
In recent years, there has been a trend towards natural childbirth and home births in Jordan, particularly among expatriates living in the country. However, it is important to note that home births are not widely accepted in Jordanian society, and it can be difficult to find a healthcare professional who is willing to attend a home birth.
Registering a Birth in Jordan
All births in Jordan must be registered with the Civil Status and Passports Department within 30 days of the birth. The registration process can be done at the hospital where the birth took place or at the Civil Status and Passports Department office.
To register a birth in Jordan, the following documents are required:
- The original birth notification issued by the hospital where the birth took place
- The parents’ national identification cards or passports
- The parents’ marriage certificate (if applicable)
Once the birth is registered, the parents will receive a birth certificate for their child. This document is required for a range of purposes, including registering the child for school, obtaining a passport, and accessing healthcare services.
Attitudes and Legislation Surrounding Abortion in Jordan
Abortion is illegal in Jordan unless the pregnancy is deemed to be a threat to the life of the mother. In cases where the mother’s life is at risk, an abortion can only be performed with the approval of a committee of three doctors.
There is little public debate or discussion around the issue of abortion in Jordan, and it remains a taboo subject in many circles. However, there have been calls in recent years for the government to review the country’s strict abortion laws.
In the absence of legal abortion services, some women in Jordan resort to unsafe abortion methods, which can be both dangerous and potentially life-threatening. It is estimated that there are between 15,000 and 20,000 illegal abortions performed in Jordan each year.
In conclusion, giving birth in Jordan is generally done in hospitals, and the registration process must be completed within 30 days of the birth. Abortion is illegal in Jordan except in cases where the mother’s life is at risk, and there is little public debate or discussion around the issue. The government of Jordan is facing pressure to review the country’s strict abortion laws to provide women with safer options in cases where a termination is necessary.