Having a Baby in Basel

A Guide to Resources and Procedures

The BCT would like to thank the following people in the production of this booklet: The 2001-2004 BCT committees with a special thank you to Henrietta Carbonel, Jodie Dawson, Melissa Husi and Lyn Thomas for final content and design. Karen Willis at NVC; Mrs. Kolb and Mrs. Gander at Ita Wegman Klinic; Mrs. Iseli at Muttenz Gerburtssttte; Mrs. Vidosavlejevic at the Bruderholz Hospital; Mrs. Zimmerman at Bethesda Hospital; Mrs. Wezel at the Frauenklinik; Mrs. Bhler at Liestal Cantonal Hospital; and all the midwives who took time to explain their department and work. Please Note: This booklet was designed as an overview of the resources and facilities available in the Basel area for young families. We have been as inclusive as possible. The BCT does not support any one resource or facility. Our goal is to provide you with information to make informed decisions during this special time in your life. The information provided is accurate at the time of going to press. Copyright Basel Childbirth Trust 2004. Photo Clip Art by Hemera, Copyright (c) 20 Lyn Thomas and its licensors. All rights reserved. 2

Table of Contents

About the Basel Childbirth Trust (BCT).5 Where to Begin...6 Insurance....6 Antenatal Courses.......7 Choosing the Type of Birth That's Right for You...8 General Information on all Maternity Services........9 Where to Have Your Baby.........10 Babies with Special Needs.13 Pregnancy, Motherhood and Employment....14 How to Find a Paediatrician..16 In Case of Emergency........16 Breastfeeding Help....16 Where to Buy Baby Supplies.....17 First Aid Courses......18 Support Networks.....18 Childcare..19 Family- and Women-Oriented Groups.20 Babysitting Services..20 Useful Phrases in German....21

Having a Baby in Basel

About the Basel Childbirth Trust

The BCT is a non-profit, voluntary organization with a membership of over 130 families, representing many nationalities and cultures with English as the common spoken language. Our mission is to give help, support and information to expectant parents and families with young children to enable them to make informed choices about birth and parenthood. The BCT was founded in 1988 and modelled on the philosophies of the National Childbirth Trust of England Lectures and workshops by experts in areas of interest to young families Financial support for training English-speaking prenatal instructors for the Basel area An interactive web site that highlights our activities, provides information and connects parents at www. baselchildbirthtrust.com

(www.nctpregnancyandbabycare.com).

With help and monetary support from the American Women's Club of Basel, the BCT was formed with only 29 members. We are proud of our growth and ability to continue providing support, information and activities for our local group. Raising a family is an exciting adventure, but it can be challenging and overwhelming, especially in a foreign environment, far from family and friends. The BCT offers families a warm welcome, friendly encouragement and a chance to connect with others in similar situations through: Social activities and gatherings for mothers, fathers and families Regular meetings and coffee mornings to connect with other parents A monthly newsletter with relevant topics and information about local resources 5

Having a Baby in Basel

Where to Begin
Congratulations! So, you are, or at least think you are, pregnant. Now what? First, most women see a gynaecologist to confirm the pregnancy and have a Pap smear. To find a gynaecologist, you can go to a hospital or private practice. One of the best ways is via recommendation from other mothers or you can look in the telephone book for a gynaecological practice in your neighbourhood. Call the practice to see if English is spoken. For the remainder of the pregnancy, you may see a private gynaecologist, a gynaecologist working in a hospital or a midwife. If you choose a hospital gynaecologist, your care will be dependent on your insurance. For example, if you have private or half-private insurance, you will have your own doctor in the cantonal hospitals. If you have basic insurance, you will see the doctor on duty the day of your appointment. However, high-risk pregnancies are usually monitored by the same doctor throughout the pregnancy, regardless of insurance. Private gynaecologists do not always participate in labour and delivery so be sure to ask if this is important to you. Midwife-led care or one-time consultations can be arranged through the Hebamme Sprechstunde (Midwife Consultation Service) in Muttenz, Ita Wegmann Klinik, Frauenklinik Kantonspital Basel (Womens Clinic Hospital) or Kantonspital Liestal (see "Where to Have Your Baby" for more informa6

tion). A list of independent midwives is also available on request from Silvia Zeltner, Tel. 061 702 07 60. Three scans during the 12th, 20th and 32nd weeks of pregnancy are recommended. Midwives conduct all usual medical examinations while considering the nonmedical aspects of pregnancy and birth. During the consultations you will discuss self-care, birth options, changing family patterns and legal matters. Continuity of care is emphasized and English-speaking midwives are available.

Insurance
Medical insurance for pregnancy and birth is typically straightforward yet it is necessary to be aware of the following issues before making your final decision about where to have your baby. Confirm your exact coverage with your insurance company. Swiss basic medical insurance will cover your medical bills and hospital stay in a general hospital ward at a cantonal facility, even if you arrive in Basel already pregnant. However, you cannot have your baby at a private or semi-private clinic. You must go to the main public hospital in your canton of residence or pay yourself. It is possible to consult a private doctor for prenatal check-ups but this physician cannot deliver your baby; you must go to the doctor on duty at your hospital.

Private or semi-private insurance allows you to choose your own private doctor who will deliver your baby in the clinic of your choice. Check whether your insurance limits you to the cantonal facility. Non-Swiss insurance carriers may be required to pay a cash deposit to the hospital in advance. This can be as much as CHF 10,000 so please check with the hospital. Pre-birth insurance contracts are offered by most insurance companies and ensure that the baby is covered at the basic level immediately after birth. But, if this insurance is arranged after the birth, a full health questionnaire must be completed and any health conditions or disabilities may be excluded from the supplementary coverage. However, if a baby is born with a serious illness, the Swiss disability pension will cover medical costs. Information supplied by Karen Willis at NVC

Having a Baby in Basel They are wonderful opportunities to meet other parents to-be. Most Swiss-German antenatal courses are 8 sessions and for women only, with only one or two evenings for partners; Ita Wegmann Klinik and Muttenz Birth House offer courses for couples. Muttenz also offers yoga and water classes at Rheinfelden. Hospital courses tend to get booked up, so call early. Courses in English are also available through antenatal teachers who offer private sessions. The following instructors have courses of varying lengths and philosophies. Speak with the instructors to find the one who best meets your needs. Henrietta Carbonel, Tel. 061 411 06 39 (BCT Sponsored Instructor) Im Kaspar, 41, 4142 Mnchenstein Private, group and refresher courses in English for couples in the evenings or on weekends. Ins Jenny, Tel. 061 421 92 03 Holeestrasse 47, 4054 Basel Pre- and postnatal courses in German for women in the daytime; private courses in English. Catherine Olah, Tel. 061 274 04 25 Holbeinstrasse 5, Basel Regular courses in German; English courses in the evenings or on weekends for groups of couples or on a private basis. 7

Antenatal Courses
There are several options for women and partners in the Basel area. Be sure to check with your insurance carrier as many reimburse a minimum of CHF 100 for antenatal classes. Courses typically cover pregnancy issues, preparation for labour, breathing techniques, massage, relaxation, baby care and the transition to parenthood.

Having a Baby in Basel Gertrud Schaffner-Koch, Tel. 061 281 6869 Praxis Freie Strasse 4, 4001 Basel Private prenatal English courses for couples. Esther Schmied, Tel. 079 341 33 36 c/o Praxis Dr. Med, R. Schweizer, Ausmattstrasse 1, 4132 Muttenz German daytime sessions for women, with English translation or in English, depending on demand; private lessons for couples. Barbara Kettiger Schneider, Tel. 061 773 00 33 Familiezentrum Chrttli, 4242 Laufen Private prenatal English courses for couples. Sylvia von Bren, Tel. 061 301 55 17 Studio fr Bewegung und Geburtsvorbereitung, Sngergasse 19, 4054 Basel Pre- and postnatal courses in German and private English classes.

Choosing the Type of Birth That's Right for You

There are advantages and disadvantages to all options. Ask a lot of questions, meet other mothers who gave birth in the region, visit the facilities and check with your insurance carrier before making a decision.

Ambulante Birth:
This birth occurs in a hospital or birth house and mother and infant go home after a few hours. They are cared for at home by a private midwife for up to 10 days. This must be arranged in advance. You must also show that you have help at home after the birth, usually with a midwife, and are registered with a paediatrician.

Birth House:
Located in Muttenz, the local birth house combines the availability of technical medical services with the warmth of a non-medical atmosphere. The birth must be low-risk with a normal pregnancy and well-positioned baby. A midwife assists throughout labour, and administers drugs and episiotomies when necessary. A doctor is on-call but no anaesthetist is available. A few hours after birth, mother and infant go home and are cared for by the private midwife. The conditions are the same as above. 8

Having a Baby in Basel

Home Birth:
This is arranged through an independent midwife practicing in the area (call Silvia Zeltner, Tel. 061 702 07 60 for a list) or through the Muttenz Birth House. The nearest hospital must be less than 15 minutes away. The conditions are the same as above.

General Information on all Maternity Services

We are lucky to have a large choice of high quality maternity services to cater to all needs and wishes. Here are a few aspects that hold true for all of them in the Basel area. 1) Antenatal care: All maternity departments offer prenatal care and courses. Traditionally, pregnant women see a gynaecologist-obstetrician but midwives are increasingly popular. 2) What to take to the hospital: Your personal effects, clothes and night dress for you (unless you prefer the hospital gown), and any medication. For the baby, you need a car seat and clothes for the day you leave the hospital. Everything else is provided. 3) The birth: Your partner or support person is welcome everywhere during the birth and planned Caesarean sections but typically does not stay overnight except by special arrangement. All hospitals state that they encourage all birth positions, yet actual practice varies. After the birth, the baby is put on the mother and a midwife helps with breastfeeding. Your baby will usually stay with you, but you can choose the nursery, where available, when you need a break. 4) Feeding: Breastfeeding is the norm in Switzerland and all facilities have specially trained counsellors. Make sure your wishes are known if you are planning to bottle feed from the start. Some cantons 9

Hospital Birth:
In the local area, there are two teaching hospitals, Basel Kantonspital and Bruderholzspital; one regional hospital, Liestal Kantonspital; and two private hospitals, Bedestha Spital and Ita Wegmann Klinik. Emergency facilities for a Caesarean section and an anaesthetist are available at all except the Ita Wegmann Klinik. Only the teaching hospitals have neo-natal intensive care units. Hospital stays are usually up to 5 days or 8 days for Caesarean sections. Once you leave the hospital, insurance will cover midwife visits at home for up to 10 days post-delivery. Midwife home visits should be organised by the 34th week of pregnancy.

Hospital Birth with an Independent Midwife:

In Liestal hospital, an independent midwife can accompany you through labour. Five midwives are accredited by the hospital. Book very early!

Having a Baby in Basel provide breastfeeding bonus money if you breastfeed for a certain number of weeks. Ask your paediatrician or Mutter Beratung about procedures and an affidavit for application. 5) Postnatal physiotherapy: All maternities offer physiotherapy sessions during your stay and outpatient courses from the 6th week after birth. 6) Languages: Some midwives speak English and you can ask to meet them for an antenatal consultation. You are not guaranteed an English-speaking midwife when you are admitted, except in Muttenz or Liestal if you have your own private midwife. Most doctors speak English. 7) Naming your baby: Parents can freely choose the name of their child, although the town clerk will check that it is in "the best interest of the child." If the name is unusual, but common in your country, you may have to provide proof. Make sure the spelling is correct on the registration form. It costs a lot of money and time to have it changed once it is signed! 8) Registering your baby: Babies must be registered within 3 days of birth. Your facility will register your baby for you in the town where the birth took place. If you have a home birth, you will have to go to your town hall or Gemeinde to register your baby. If neither you nor your partner are Swiss, you will need to take originals or official copies of the following with you to the hospital: Passports, birth certificates, marriage certificate, a letter from your Gemeinde or residence permit to show you are a legal resident. You will 10

receive a Swiss birth certificate in the mail that will be necessary to register your baby in your own Gemeinde and to apply for a passport at your national embassy. Contact your embassy for details. 9) Circumcision: It is not a routine procedure and must be discussed with the doctor beforehand. Insurance will not pay for circumcision unless it is medically necessary.

Where to Have Your Baby

Once you have made a decision about the type of birth you would like, you can choose from a number of facilities in and around Basel. Once you decide, register your birth with that maternity service. A summary of the facilities available at each institution can be found in the table in Appendix I at the back of this booklet. Gerburtssttte Muttenz (Muttenz Birth House) Unterwartweg 21, 4132 Muttenz Tel. 061 461 47 11, www. geburtsstaette.ch To visit, call for an appointment with the midwife, MonFri 11:00-12:00 and 13:30-14:30.

Having a Baby in Basel Pregnancy and birth are viewed as a natural part of a womans life. A midwife follows you from the 20th week of pregnancy. She provides all prenatal care but a physician conducts ultrasounds. The birth house is like a home with two birth rooms (one with a birthing pool), a sitting room-kitchen and green space for walks. Throughout labour, your midwife supports a natural birth and your choice of birthing position using a birthing pool, rope, ball or stool. Muttenz has one of the highest rates of water births in the area. Both a gynaecologist and paediatrician are on-call and, if needed, women are transferred to Bruderholz hospital or Frauenklinik. A few hours after the birth, mother and infant go home and are visited daily by the midwife for up to 10 days. Insurance: Costs are covered by all levels of insurance, except for CHF 300, usually reimbursed by private and halfprivate insurance. The maternity service (called the Family Centre) welcomes fathers and children and offers the opportunity to meet your midwife in advance during discussion hours. Listening to the babys heart (using a wood carved foetal stethoscope) and checking the cervix on arrival are the only routines; the rest is up to you. The midwife will stay with you until the end of the birth and will spend as much time afterward as you need. All monitoring systems are available, natural methods of pain relief are favoured and anthroposophical drugs are used. Traditional medications are also available but epidurals are not administered. If necessary, women are transferred to Bruderholzspital or Frauenklinik but return for the recovery period. Other services include ambulante birth, recovery period after giving birth at home or in another hospital and support for postnatal depression.

Kantonspital Liestal
Rheinstrasse 26, 4410 Liestal Tel. 061 925 22 80 (midwife) www.gyn-gaudenz.ch Information evenings are offered every other Tuesday at 7:30pm, followed by an apro, with time to meet a midwife and ask questions. Check the website for dates. Both doctors and midwives play an important role. A physician from the hospital, your private doctor or a midwife through the Hebamme Sprechstunde (Midwife Consultation Service) can monitor your pregnancy. The current consulting midwives both speak English. 11

Ita Wegmann Klinik

Pfeffingerweg 1, 4144 Arlesheim Tel. 061 705 72 50 (midwife) www.wegmanklinik.ch To visit call for an appointment with the midwife. The clinic is an anthroposophical institution, based on Rudolph Steiner's philosophy, where the understanding of human beings is in their threefold nature of body, soul and spirit. This is apparent in the typical rounded buildings, an inviting garden, its gentle colours, and use of wood and organic f o o d .

Having a Baby in Basel During labour, the midwife supports a natural birth. Epidurals are available through an on-call anaesthetist. Birth rooms are either equipped with a rope, Roma Wheel or bath. You are welcome to walk around the gardens, have a snack at the cafeteria or try out the Roma wheel, a warm bath or massage. The birthing bed, birthing pool and Maya stool are most commonly used for births. Caesarean sections are possible and newborns are transferred to the childrens hospital in Basel (UKBB) when complications arise. Liestal is the only hospital where a private midwife can accompany you. The maternity provides a list of accredited midwives who may also offer home visits. Liestal has two trained breastfeeding counsellors who help in the hospital and after you go home.

The hospital specializes in high-risk and difficult pregnancies. A surgical team is always present and the childrens hospital, UKBB, is housed under the same roof so both mother and child can be cared for in all situations.

Bethesda Spital
Gellertstrasse 144, 4020 Basel Tel. 061 315 21 21 www.bethesda.ch/sp_ko.asp To visit, call the midwife on duty to arrange a time. The main private hospital in the Basel area, set in a beautiful park, is a religious institution with nuns present, but open to all. The maternity service offers, as the brochure says, the comfort of a hotel and the safety of a hospital. The welcome is warm and helpful and you will be well looked after. The type of medical care you receive here is determined by the practices of your private doctor. So, your choice of gynaecologist is the important decision. You visit your own doctor's practice during the pregnancy and s/he or her/ his partner will oversee the birth. You discuss the type of birth you wish with your physician and the midwives at the hospital follow her/his instructions. As in the other large hospitals, you cannot choose your midwife. Aromatherapy, a warm bath and massage are available. The use of homeopathy will depend on your doctors practice. Water births are possible but not common. Most women use the birthing bed, but other positions are accepted. Epidurals are available and Caesarean sections are more 12

Kantonspital Bruderholz
4101 Bruderholz Tel. 061 436 22 77 (information about the maternity department) Tel. 061 436 30 14 (midwife) www.bruderholzspital.ch Information evenings are 1st Tuesday of the month, in Aula, 1st floor, from 19:30 to 21:30. Modern services of a major teaching hospital are offered while following the wishes of the parents for the birth. You are admitted with typical hospital procedures and then a midwife discusses your views of labour and interventions. Most mothers give birth on the delivery bed but midwives will suggest other helpful positions. Fathers are encouraged to participate. Specially trained breastfeeding counsellors are available.

Having a Baby in Basel common than in the other hospitals. Babies needing special care are transferred to the Basel childrens hospital (UKBB). Insurance: Basic insurance is now accepted with an advance payment of CHF 2,000 for normal births and CHF 3,000 for C-sections (subject to change). These payments bring your insurance to a half-private level with no additional fees, other than personal expenses such as telephone and drinks. The clinic's philosophy includes birth as a natural process and midwives support you throughout labour. During labour, you are encouraged to walk, enjoy the gardens or the cafeteria or have a relaxing bath. Knowing that an operating team is always present, the midwives do not have to rush to intervene, but can let mothers take their time and try different possibilities. A surgical team is available and the medical staff is trained to care for highrisk pregnancies. If you are expecting twins or a breech baby, the maternity team will support you in as natural a birth as possible. The Womens clinic is applying for the World Health Organizations Baby Friendly Hospital accreditation, an initiative to actively support breast-feeding.

Universitts-Frauenklinik, Kantonspital Basel

Spitalstrasse 21, 4031 Basel For basic insurance (Polyclinic): Tel. 061 265 93 93 For semi-private and private insurance: Tel. 061 265 90 66 Labour ward info: Tel. 061 265 91 91 www.kantonsspital-basel.ch/bereiche/ uni_frauenklinik Information evenings are on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 19:00, Klinikum I, Hrsaal 1, 2nd floor. In March 2003, the Womens Clinic of Basel University Hospital moved to its new location. The delivery rooms boast the latest technology and the facility is spacious and light. Two options are available for prenatal care: gynaecologist-obstetrician-led (a private one if you have private insurance), or midwife-led through the Hebamme Sprechstunde. You are welcome to use this service in combination with visits to your private doctor. Some of the midwives speak English. 13

Babies with Special Needs

We hope that everything runs smoothly with your birth and that this section will be unnecessary. Should an emergency situation arise, the following information provides a starting point. If your baby needs any special treatment following the birth, he will be transferred to a neonatal unit where a specialist team will look after him. There are two neonatal units in the region, at the Frauenklinik and

Having a Baby in Basel Bruderholzspital. Babies requiring surgery will most likely be transferred to the Bruderholz hospital. If your baby is transferred after birth, you cannot travel in the ambulance due to limited space. You may be able to transfer your stay in the hospital to be with your baby depending on space available. Ask your gynaecologist to make this arrangement. While your baby is in the hospital, you are entitled to support from a social worker. She can inform you about the many issues you may be confronted with and put you in touch with support groups and services. Ask the doctor or nurse for an appointment with an English speaking social worker. This service is not usually available once your baby comes home. The Swiss Invalidity Insurance (IV) may cover your babys stay in the hospital and treatment. Ask your doctor about this as soon as possible. She will help you establish if your baby is entitled to IV, fill out relevant application forms and submit a claim. Once your baby is ready to come home, your paediatrician will act as the coordinator for any follow up care. If you wish to speak with a chaplain, contact Geoff Read, Chaplain of the Anglican Church in Basel at Tel. 061 321 7477 or Mark Hill of the Basel Christian Fellowship at Tel. 061 751 8206.

Pregnancy, Motherhood and Employment

Here is a basic overview of your rights as a working mother and some common questions. Make sure you know and understand what you are entitled to before you announce your pregnancy. Clearly review your employment contract and employer's policies for more specific information. If your company has a Human Resources manager, you may want to schedule a consultation. 1. When do I need to tell my employer I'm pregnant? Pregnant women have no obligation to inform their employer or a potential employer about a pregnancy, but it is generally in your best interest to do so. 2. What if my employer wants to fire me? Employers cannot give notice to an employee during the entire length of a pregnancy and for 16 weeks after birth. Any notice given during this period is invalid unless it is during a trial or probationary period. An employee can resign at any time and cannot be forced to give in her resignation. 3. What type of protection am I entitled to in the workplace? Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not be given work in an area that may affect their health, pregnancy or breastfeeding. Pregnant and nursing mothers are not allowed to work more than 9 hours per day and should not be made to work overtime. If ordered by a doctor, the woman must be given a less demanding job. 14

Having a Baby in Basel If necessary and without a doctor's prescription, pregnant women have the right to leave their workplace or remain absent, after having told their employer. However, the pregnant woman will only receive her pay if her inability to work is attested to by a doctor, and only according to her work contract. From 8 weeks before the due date until 16 weeks after the birth, mothers cannot work between 20:00 and 06:00. 4. What is Swiss "maternity leave"? In Switzerland, maternity leave has only been instituted after the birth. Mothers of newborns are not allowed to work for 8 weeks after the birth and, if by choice, they may work between 8 and 16 weeks post-delivery. If a woman does not wish to resume her work after the birth, she must respect the notice period. Once over, the employer no longer has any duty to pay the maternity leave. 5. What type of pay should I expect during pregnancy and maternity leave? Maternity leave does not imply that you will receive a wage. Labour law categorizes pregnancy and maternity as illnesses. Your length of employment and the terms of your contract will determine your pay. Any days you are absent during the same year (illness or pregnancy related) can be subtracted from your maternity leave pay. 5. What about holidays and lunch breaks? If an employee is away from work due to pregnancy or motherhood for more than two months, the employer can reduce the holiday allowance by one twelfth for each extra month of absence. Parents with children up to the age of 15 are entitled to a lunch 15 break of one and a half hours. 6. Can I breastfeed or pump my milk at work? Your employer must give you time to breastfeed or pump. 7. What if I need to take time off when my baby is sick? If a child is ill, a mother or father has the right to take time off without any wage loss. However, the parents have an obligation to find care for their sick child as soon as possible. 9. How can my HR manager help? This person typically has all of the information you need to help you through your pregnancy and birth at your company. She can also assist you with a residency permit for your baby and application for the monthly stipend most Swiss firms provide for each child. Legal information taken from Die Rechte von Eltern und Kind by V. Imthurn, Pro Juventute, 2001.

Having a Baby in Basel

How to Find a Paediatrician

There is no easy answer to this because preferences are so individual. Ask around! Solicit input from your gynaecologist, women at work, friends, BCT members and anyone else you know who could help guide you. Look in the yellow pages for a practice in your neighbourhood and call to see if English is spoken. Schedule an initial appointment with a few paediatricians before the baby arrives to get a sense of their philosophy and practice. Go prepared with questions and choose the one that is the best fit: you will need to provide your paediatrician's name as soon as the baby arrives.

Basel Stadt is paediatric medicine and orthopaedics but they also have other departments such as physiotherapy, psychiatry and specialised clinics and support for premature births, sleep problems and colic. UKBB Bruderholz specialises in childrens surgery and orthopaedics with departments in neurology, physiology, sport medicine and psychiatry. UKBB Frauenklinik is only a neonatal unit. It is always best to call the UKBB common number first; however, in a serious emergency, you can take your child straight to the Emergency Department (Notfall) of UKBB Basel Stadt or Bruderholz without prior arrangement. The telephone numbers for all UKBB Children's Hospital locations are the same. For more information on the UKBB visit www.UKBB.ch. The main emergency numbers are listed on the back of this booklet.

In Case of Emergency
Discuss emergencies and on-call procedures with your paediatrician during your first appointment. You may be asked to call the Notfalldienst (emergency service). A qualified nurse will ask you questions and put you in touch with the nearest available doctor on-call or hospital. The childrens hospital in Basel, Universitts Kinderspital Beider Basel (UKBB) has three locations: Basel Stadt, Bruderholz and a neonatal unit in the Frauenklinik. Both UKBB Basel Stadt and Bruderholz have emergency units. The main emphasis at UKBB 16

Breastfeeding Help
If you have any questions or need any help, call a breastfeeding counselor as soon as possible. They can assist you over the phone, in their practice or at your home. Fees for 3 sessions are usually reimbursed by insurance and with a prescription if more time is needed. Breast pump rentals are not typically reimbursed. The three counselors listed below speak English and are all members of the IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultants).

Having a Baby in Basel Monika Messner (La Leche League Leader) Totentanz 13, 4051 Basel, Tel. 061 262 06 80/061 322 75 00 Additional Services: Courses on preparation for breastfeeding, breastfeeding after 3 months, weaning or carrying, breast pump trials and sales. Catherine Schucan Ges u n dh ei ts z en t r u m, Freiestrasse 35, 4001 Basel, Tel. 061 264 33 33/061 401 27 29 Additional Services: Breastfeeding and baby massage courses. Lydia Weisskopf (Certified Children's Nurse) Rttihardstrasse 4, 4132 Muttenz, Tel. 061 462 07 46 Additional Services: Homeopathy, breast pump rentals, assistance for medical treatments or other difficulties such as crying or sleeping. AuBert (Grssen Centre, Pratteln) BabyRose (Klein Basel) Du Pareil au Mme (Marktplatz) Globus (Marktplatz) H&M (Claraplatz & St. Jakobs Centre) Manor (Claraplatz & St. Jakobs Centre) Nuggihuus (Aeschenplatz and Reinach) Second-hand shops, called Brockenstubes, provide a great alternative with almost-new merchandise at very reasonable prices. Also, many Familiezentrum have a regular Kinderkleiderborse, or clothing sales. Look in your local phone book or paper or ask at your Gemeinde to find the ones nearest you. 17

Where to Buy Baby Supplies

There are a number of popular favourites in and around the Basel area. You can find quality clothing at most major department stores and speciality shops in Basel, France and Germany. This list is by no means comprehensive but will give you a starting point on buying your baby gear and clothing.

Having a Baby in Basel

First Aid Courses

Marjory Barnes, Samariter-Verein Riehen, Tel. 061 601 45 74 www.samariter-riehen.ch Services include English courses for first aid and CPR for children and infants and Swiss driving test accompaniment.

baby health counselling service. A specially trained public health nurse contacts you to introduce the service and provide hours and contact information. The service is available until your child is 4 years old and can help you monitor weight gain, answer questions, get advice and meet other mothers. Most counsellors speak at least some English.

Familien Zentrum
These Family Centres are provided by the government and found around Basel and in the villages. This is often where the Mutter- und Vaterberatung takes place, but they may also offer mother and toddler groups, crafts, second-hand clothes shops, etc. Ask your counsellor about your local centre.

Support Networks
There are groups and organizations that can help you at all stages of pregnancy and motherhood. Contact any of these networks to find out more about their services.

Twins and Multiples Assoc.:

Zwillings und Mehrlings Elternclubs. www.zwillingseltern.ch The association organises sales for baby gear, family and parent activities and monthly information evenings for new parents. Angela Forster, Tel. 061 382 78 64

Basel Childbirth Trust (BCT)

The BCT is the primary Englishspeaking group in Basel that provides support and information for pregnancy, birth and parenthood. The BCT offers a number of services including monthly newsletters, regular social events for families and evening talks. Most popular are the Bumps and Babes group for pregnant women and mothers with babies under the age of 1 and the 'Bumps & Bruises' group for toddlers. These are great places to connect with other mothers and get information. To join, visit the web site at www. baselchildbirthtrust.com. Mutter- und Vaterberatung (Mother & Father Counselling) In each area of Basel there is a free 18

Downs Syndrome
Support for Parents with Children with Downs Syndrome: Vereinigung fr Kinder mit Down-Syndrome www.downsyndrom.ch Rebeca von Burg, Tel. 061 311 37 10 (She does not speak English but will find an Englishspeaking contact for you.)

Adoption
Schweiz Fachstelle fr Adoption. Tel. 01 360 80 90 Information on adoption in Switzerland, whether of a Swiss child or one from a foreign country.

Childcare
Whether you are looking for a few hours of free time per week or for fulltime care once you go back to work, there are several options to choose from.

Having a Baby in Basel under 'Tagesheim' in the telephone book. Private Tagesheim are increasing in number. A good place to find them is in phone book. You can ask at the Mutter- und Vaterberatung, look on the notice board of your paediatricians office or check in your municipal Gemeinde booklet. Tagesmutter or Tagesfamilien are mothers or families who care for children in their homes. They are trained and supervised by various family organisations. Contact Margreth von Holt, Tel. 061 333 2200, for Basel Stadt or family organisations in your municipality. Ask at your Gemeinde or Mutter Beratung or look in your local information booklets. For emergency childcare you may use the Basler Kindernascht, Gerbergasse 14 at Marktplatz, where children can stay for one hour or all day. For more information, visit www.kindernaescht. ch or Tel. 061 261 4939. All areas in Basel and villages offer playgroups (spielgruppe), starting with mother and toddlers and then on to playgroups for 2 to 3 year olds. A good way to get to know other families in your area and to start your little one off in Swiss-German!

1) English-speaking Centres
Tiny Tots is a day care centre for children from 3 months until the end of Kindergarten, 6 to 7 years old. They have two locations in Basel, St. Jakobstrasse, Tel. 061 313 0580 and Fasanenstrasse, Tel. 061 683 48 22. Maple Leaf Preschool offers a bilingual environment for children from 3 months up to 10 years old. Joy Nussbaumer, Tel. 061 693 13 12. Home from Home Nursery opened in 2003 in Kraftstrasse 6, near St Johann (Novartis), and offers care for children from 2 months to 6 years old. Mymoena Benjamin, Tel. 061 321 51 80.

2) Swiss-German Centres
There are too many to list but here is an overview of the types of care offered. You may also visit www. kinderkrippen-online.ch for information on childcare facilities in Switzerland. Public Day Care Centres or Tagesheim offer all day care, from 6:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. for children from 3 months and up. Single mothers and families with two working parents get priority. They are subsidized, and you pay according to your income. Sign up early, as space is limited. They are listed 19

Having a Baby in Basel

Family- and Women-Oriented Groups

The American Womens Club offers activities for young children and families. They publish a Living in Basel guide with practical information, including a chapter on children. www.centrepoint.ch/americanwomens club/home.html, tel. 061 261 4055. Centrepoint is an English-speaking organisation offering activities for the whole family including conversation groups in various languages, visits in the local area, childrens reading groups, a library, video and DVD rentals, exhibitions and a lot more. If you are new here, it's definitely worth a look. Tel. 061 261 20 02; www. centrepoint.ch. The Open Door is an organisation offering mother and toddler groups, playgroups from 2 years, early learning from 4 years, family parties, and more.

Tel. 061 361 1710. The Professional Women's Group brings together women of diverse professional and cultural backgrounds. They offer a welcoming Englishspeaking environment for women to share their experiences, learn from each other, build friendships and professional relationships and have fun together. They offer monthly talks, a newsletter and various social events. It is open to all women and employment is not necessary to join. www.pwgbasel.ch.

Babysitting Services
The American Womens Club/ Centrepoint (see above for details) can provide you with a list of English speaking, approved babysitters. The International School of Basel (061 715 3333, info@isbasel.ch) also offer Red Cross approved training courses for their older pupils and can supply a list of those who have passed.

Some Useful German Phrases

See also Appendix II at the back of this booklet for a list of German pregnancy and birth vocabulary. My name is. Meine Name ist.. My address is Meine Adresse ist.. My phone number is Mein Telefonnummer ist Please send an ambulance. Bitte, senden Sie eine Ambulanz. I need help quickly. Ich brauche Hilfe, schnell. I am months pregnant. Ich bin Monaten schwanger. Do you speak English? Sprechen Sie English? Please find someone who speaks English. Bitte finden Sie jemanden der English spricht. I am in labour. Ich bin in den Wehen.

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Emergency Telephone Numbers

General Emergency: Police: Fire: Ambulance: Poison Centre Notfalldienst: Dornach Ambulance : UKBB main number:

112 117 118 144

01 251 51 51 061 261 15 15 061 701 11 22 061 685 65 65

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Appendix I: Summary Table of Maternity Services in the Basel Area

Births in 2001 Doctor Midwife Yours Anaesthetist No Pediatrician On call, then yours yes Private Doctor* Yes, from list Yes, from list From hospital (1) From hospital (1, 2) Yes, from list From hospital (1, 2) Labour rooms 2 Birth room equipment ** Waterbirth (1), stool, rope, Waterbirth (1), stool, ball, rope Waterbirth (1), Roma, stool, ball, rope Waterbirth , stool, ball, rope Waterbirth (1), stool, rope Waterbirth (2), Roma, stool, rope Pain relief*** Beds per room n.a. Neonatal special care No, UKBB**** ER

Gerburtssttte Muttenz Ita Wegman Klinik Kantonspital Liestal Kantonspital Bruderholz Bethesdaspital

131 (27 home births) 136

On call

Aroma, homeo, bath, Moxa, drugs Massage, aroma, homeo, anthropsophical medicine, drugs Massage, aroma, homeo, bath, drugs, epidural Massage, aroma, homeo, bath, drugs, epidural Massage, aroma, bath Massage, homeo, bath, drugs, epidural

24h

Yes

No

1-2

No, UKBB****

679

24h

On call

On call, from UKBB 24h

1-2 (one room with 4) 1-3

No, UKBB****

866

24h

24h

Yes, very close

908

Yours, on call 24h

24h

Yours, on call 24h

1 or 2 1-2

No, UKBB****

Kantonspital Basel Stadt

1453

24h

Yes, very close

This information is given to the best of our knowledge, but changes do occur and we recommend you check again with the hospital or clinic about any aspects that are important to you. Not all equipment is available in all rooms, so may not always be available.

* In parenthesis is the type of insurance you need to have a private doctor: 1 is private, 2 is half private and 3 is basic insurance ** Equipment: After water birth in parenthesis is the number of birthing baths in the maternity. Roma = Roma wheel (sort of rocking chair/swing), stool = Maya stool. *** Pain relief: homeo= homeopathy, aroma = aromatherapy, drugs = medical drugs, moxa = moxatherapy **** Universitts Kinderspital Beider Basel (Childrens University Hospital for both Basel kantons)

Notes

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Appendix II: English-German Pregnancy and Birth Vocabulary

A Afraid, I am .......................... Ich habe angst Amniocentesis .................... Die Amniozentese Amniotic fluid .................... Das Fruchtwasser Amniotic sac....................... Die Fruchtblase Anemia ............................... Die Aneamie Anaesthetic ......................... Die Narkose B Back .................................... Der Rucken Bath .................................... Das Bad Bedpan ............................... Das Stechbecken Birth preparations .............. Geburtsvorbereitung Birth certificate ................... Die Geburtsurkunde Birth stool........................... Der Gebrstuhl Bladder ............................... Die Blase Bleeding .............................. Die Blutung Blood .................................. Das Blut Blood group ......................... Die Blutgruppe Blood pressure..................... Die Blutdruck Blood test ........................... Die Blutprobe Bottle, to give ..................... Die Flasche geben Bowel.................................. Der Darm Boy ..................................... Der Bube Bra, feeding ........................ Still Brstenhalter Breastfeed, to ..................... Stillen Breasts ................................ Die Brste Breasts, swollen .................. Geschwollene Brste Breath deeply...................... Tief atmen Breath in ............................. Einatmen Breath out ........................... ausatmen Breath slowly ...................... Langsam atmen Breathing .............................. Atmen Breach birth.......................... Die Steisslage C Caesarean section ................ Der Kaiserschnitt Catheter ................................ Der Katheter Cervix.................................... Der Gabrmutterhals Colostrums ........................... Die Vormilch Constipation......................... Die Verstopfung Contractions......................... Die Wehen Cry, to ................................... Weinen D Delivery ................................ Die Entbindung Demand feed ....................... Auf Verlangen nahren Diarrhoea.............................. Der Durchfall Diet........................................ Die Ernhrung Dilation ................................. Die Erweiterung Discharge.............................. Der Ausfluss Doctor................................... Der/die Aertze/in E Embryo................................. Das Embryo Emergency ........................... Der Notfall Enema................................... Der Einlauf Entonox................................ Lachgas Epidural ................................ Peridural (PDA) Episiotomy ........................... Der Dammschnitt

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F Foetal monitor ..................... Kindlicherberwachung Foetus ................................... Der Ftus Forceps ................................. Die Zangengeburt G Girl ........................................ Das Mdchen H Haemorrhage ....................... Die Blutung Haemorrhoids...................... Die Hmorrhoiden Heart rate.............................. Herzschlag Help me please .................... Helfen Sie mir bitte Hospital ................................ Das Spital Hungry, I am ....................... Ich habe hunger It hurts .................................. Es tut weh Head ..................................... Der Kopf I Identity card ......................... Die Identittskarte Induction .............................. Die Gerburtseinleitung Intravenous drip .................. Infusion Iron........................................ Eisen J Jaundice ................................ Gelbsucht L Labour................................... Die Wehen, Entbindung Labour room........................ Die Entbindungsstation M Marriage certificate.............. Die Heiratsurkunde Massage................................. Die Massage Maternity leave..................... Der Muttershaftsurlaub Meconium ............................ Das Kindspech Medicine ............................... Das Medizin

Midwife................................. Die Hebamme Milk ....................................... Der Milch Milk pump ............................ Die Milchpumpek Milk, to express.................... Milch abpumpen Miscarriage ........................... Die Fehlgeburt Morning sickness................. Die morgendliche Ubelkeit Morphine .............................. Das Morphium N Nanny.................................... Das Kindermdchen Nappies/diapers .................. Die Windeln Narcotic drug....................... Narkoticum Night ..................................... Der Nacht Nightdress ............................ Das Nachthemd Nipple ................................... Die Brustwarz Nipple, shield ....................... Das Httchen Nipples, cracked .................. Wunde Brustwarze Nursery ................................. Die Krippe O Obstetrician.......................... Der/die Frauenaerzt/in Ointment .............................. Die Salbe Oxytocin ............................... Oxytocin P Pacifier/dummy................... Der Sauger/ Nuggi Paediatrician ......................... Kinderarzt Pain, I am in ......................... Ich habe Schmerzen Pant, to.................................. Keuchen Perineum .............................. Der Damm Periods .................................. Die Periode Pessary .................................. Das Pessar Physiotherapist .................... Der/die Physiotherapeut/in Placenta................................. Die Plazenta

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Post natal .............................. Nach der Geburt Pregnancy ............................ Der Schwangershaft Pregnant, to be..................... Schwanger Premature baby.................... Die Frhgeburt Prescription .......................... Das Rezept Push, to................................. Stossen R Relax, to................................ Entspannen S Safety pins ............................ Dis Sicherheitsnadeln Sanitary towel....................... Die Damenbinden Schedule, to feed ................ Nach Zeitplan nhren See, to.................................... Sehen Severe, bad ........................... Stark Shave, to ............................... Rasieren Shout, to ............................... Schreien Show, to................................ Die Schmierblutung Shower .................................. Die Dusche Sick, to be ............................. Erbrechen Sit, to ..................................... Sitzen Sore, it is ............................... Es tut weh Special care unit................... Neugeborene I.P.S. Squat, to................................ Hocken Stand, to................................ Stehen Steriliser ................................ Der Sterilisierapparat Stillbirth ................................ Die Totgeburt Stitches.................................. Die Fden Stomach ................................ Der Bauch Stools..................................... Der Stuhlgang Stretch marks ...................... Schwangerschaftsstreifen

Suppository .......................... Das Zpfchen Swollen feet.......................... Die geschwollene Fsse Swollen hands ...................... Die geschwollene Hnde T Tear, a ................................... Der Riss Teat ....................................... Der Gummisauger Thirsty, I am......................... Ich habe Durst Tired, I am............................ Ich bin mde Toxoplasmosis..................... Toxoplasmose Twins..................................... Die Zwilinge U Ultrasound............................ Ultraschall Umbilical cord ..................... Die Nabelschnur Uncomfortable..................... Unbequem Urine ..................................... Das Urin Uterus.................................... Die Gerbrmutter V Vagina ................................... Die Vagina Ventouse............................... Die Vakuum Vitamins................................ Die Vitamine W Water..................................... Das Wasser Waterbirth ............................ Die Wassergeburt Waters, to break................... Fruchtblase sprengen Wean, to................................ Abstillen Weight, to gain..................... Zunehmen Weight, to lose ..................... Abnehmen Womb ................................... Die Gebrmutter

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