I found that the ob-gyns in Qatar are very set in their ways, so it's important to read up about pregnancy and childbirth so you are aware of the other ideas and options available to you. For example, the idea of not having any pain relief was met with shock by several ob-gyns. Yet read up on the subject of pain relief during childbirth and you'll see why there's a good argument for not having it unless absolutely necessary.
C-section and episiotomy rates are high in Qatar, but you should never feel pressured into having either of them unless absolutely necessary.
Tips for pregnancy/childbirth in Qatar (based on experience at Al Alhi);
- Read up about stuff yourself and be prepared to stick to your views despite strong disagreement from doctors (but also remember that doctors have better medical knowledge than you!)
- Write a birth plan and get it signed by the doctor, and use this during the birth to ensure you get what you want
- Get a Doula, preferably one whose used the hospital before. They are an invaluable source of support during birth, and they know how to deal with the doctors and nurses. They are worth every penny.
I must take this opportunity to commend Dr Sujartha at Al Ahli, who was very good at accommodating our needs and allowing us to do things how we wanted.
I found that the ob-gyns in Qatar are very set in their ways, so it's important to read up about pregnancy and childbirth so you are aware of the other ideas and options available to you. For example, the idea of not having any pain relief was met with shock by several ob-gyns. Yet read up on the subject of pain relief during childbirth and you'll see why there's a good argument for not having it unless absolutely necessary.
C-section and episiotomy rates are high in Qatar, but you should never feel pressured into having either of them unless absolutely necessary.
Tips for pregnancy/childbirth in Qatar (based on experience at Al Alhi);
- Read up about stuff yourself and be prepared to stick to your views despite strong disagreement from doctors (but also remember that doctors have better medical knowledge than you!)
- Write a birth plan and get it signed by the doctor, and use this during the birth to ensure you get what you want
- Get a Doula, preferably one whose used the hospital before. They are an invaluable source of support during birth, and they know how to deal with the doctors and nurses. They are worth every penny.
I must take this opportunity to commend Dr Sujartha at Al Ahli, who was very good at accommodating our needs and allowing us to do things how we wanted.