Italy’s healthcare system has a good reputation, especially when it comes to pregnancy and giving birth. In spite of this, the healthcare system in Italy can be overwhelming and somewhat confusing for first-time users, particularly when it involves something as important as pregnancy. One of the most important decisions that you will have to make when expecting a baby in Italy is who will provide care during the nine-month period: there are both public and private options to choose from, depending on what you’re looking for. We’ll also be covering other big questions, including whether it’s free to have a baby in Italy, or how much it costs to have a baby in Italy. This is our guide to pregnancy and giving birth in Italy, including the initial steps to take and the difference between public and private healthcare in pregnancy in Italy.
Your first pregnancy appointment in Italy
When you find out you’re pregnant in Italy, you need to think about arranging your first appointment with an obstetrician which can be any time from 6 weeks into your pregnancy: in Italy this is known as “prima visita ostetrica". During this appointment, all of the next steps will be explained, including blood and urine tests that you will have to do in the following weeks. At this appointment, an ultrasound will also confirm your pregnancy.
Additionally, the doctor will inform you of the available services related to pregnancy, such as parenting classes and psychiatric support, and initiate your pregnancy file (known as “cartella della gravidanza”), which will contain all your records.
However, before booking your first appointment, you must choose whether to use Italy's public healthcare system or opt for a private service.
Pregnancy in Italy: public healthcare
The Italian national health service (servizio sanitario nazionale or SSN) covers practically all medically necessary aspects of pregnancy, including monthly check-ups, regular testing, two ultrasounds, delivery, and postpartum care. Since 2017, non-invasive screening for prevalent genetic disorders has also been included, although public providers with accreditation may not be available in all regions.
Whether you are having a baby in Italy as an expat or have lived there your whole life, you are entitled to these services even without a health card (tessera sanitaria) if you are an EU citizen or have a long-stay residency permit in Italy (permesso di soggiorno) and have been referred by a doctor. To access these services, make an appointment at your local hospital or through referral from your GP. A barcode sheet or card (called a “ricevuta") will be provided to you, which you will present during your appointment. During your initial visit with the obstetrician, you will most likely be scheduled for subsequent follow-ups.
The disadvantage of receiving care at a local hospital is that you may have to interact with different staff each time you visit. If you have any inquiries or emergencies, there is no doctor to call or text, and certain tests and procedures may take a long time to complete, preventing you from receiving timely treatment. That is why in many cases, first-time mothers in Italy prefer to use a private provider.
Pregnancy in Italy: private healthcare
Choosing a private obstetrician for your pregnancy means that you'll likely have a consistent doctor or small team who will be more easily accessible to you in case of an emergency or if you have any quick questions. You'll have more options for the gender and location of your provider, and they may be less busy and able to spend more time with you during check-ups. Additionally, in some cases you may also be able to select a doctor who speaks English if your Italian language skills are weak, and you may receive more frequent ultrasounds or additional tests.
However, it's important to note that private healthcare in Italy can be quite expensive. In this case, how much does it cost to give birth in Italy? Your first appointment can cost between €100 and €250, subsequent visits can cost anywhere from €70 to €200, and any tests ordered will also be an additional cost, resulting in a total cost of over €2,000 for the duration of the pregnancy.
If you prefer not to give birth in a hospital, private clinics do offer options for delivery, but at a cost thousands of euros more. Although these facilities may offer extra amenities, such as birthing tubs, nappies and additional midwife care, note that it's uncommon for your obstetrician to be the one delivering your baby. Typically, midwives manage the birth, and they are generally known to be highly experienced and competent in both private clinics and public hospitals, while in some cases you can also opt for a home birth in Italy.
For more information about healthcare during pregnancy in Italy, take a look at the health ministry's official website.