Each MVC is normally linked with a specific hospital. However, you are entitled to request that you deliver somewhere else if you want. The biggest issue is if your first choice hospital is too busy to take you when you phone in, you may end up having to phone around other hospitals to find one with space to admit you. The system has recently changed within Stockholm, giving your assigned hospital the responsibility of finding you a back-up but check in advance what the hospital policy is.
It is possible to arrange a visit to the delivery department at most hospitals and it is also worth finding out if a birth preparation course is offered – contact the hospital of your choice to see what services they offer.
At the hospital visit, ensure you understand policies on pain relief, delivery assistance, caesareans and birth attendants which might be different to your experience in other countries. Also check whether you will be able to have an English speaking delivery midwife and whether a birth plan is needed (and if so, whether that can be in English). Ask what you will need to take with you to the birthing room and find out what birthing facilities they have available and what their policies are on using them. Some hospitals have cd players, birthing chairs, walking frames and baths, and some hospitals have strict guidelines on the uses of their facilities. Check what they recommend in the way of food, drinks, clothes and so on for the delivery room.
Finally, ask how long you are likely to stay and what else you might need for the remainder of your stay – some have a policy of sending you home again after 24 hours if both you and the baby are fit and well, others may require a stay of up to five days. Check too what their facilities are for the father. Some hospitals also have special family rooms where you can stay with your partner (and sometimes even your other children) while others are pushed for space and you will need to share rooms. Many items you will need to take will be universal, as seen in pregnancy books and on websites worldwide but it is worth checking – for example, the hospital may provide clothing for your baby while he’s still in there (useful if you are in for five days) in which case you only need to pack his ‘going away’ outfit.
If you end up going into labour while away from home, in a different part of Sweden, the costs of delivery should be covered by a reciprocal agreement with your normal health authority. You can also plan to do this – for example, if you would like to deliver near family or friends and go to them when you leave hospital. Contact your own health authority if either situation arises.