This list should help you keep things in order so you know you’re on the right track.

•    Health Insurance: This is a big one. Depending on how you will be coming to the country (moving with your spouse who is a citizen, coming as a working expat, visiting only for the birth itself, etc), you may have many different rights to free or reduced healthcare in the country. Check first to see what the country offers for expectant women and supplement that cover with additional international health insurance for anything else you may want.

•    Check-up: Every birth carries with it its own set of risks. Before trying to get pregnant, take a trip to your GP and prepare yourself by taking prenatal vitamins. You may also want to get any vaccinations early, and depending on your level of health and risks your doctor may be able to suggest the safest method of carrying your baby. Once you are in your new country make sure you see your new doctor immediately to pick up right where you left off.

•     Visa/Citizenship Issues- Some countries, like the United States, give citizenship to all children born in its borders. In other countries, it is impossible for your child to gain citizenship unless at least one parent it a citizen. Depending on what citizenship you would like your child to have, it is important to look into this early. Visit your nearest embassy to find more information about this

•    Physical Necessities- Some things are harder to get in some areas. If you are particular to one brand it is worth checking that it is available in your new home. In some countries it may be cheaper to wait and buy everything there, in others certain things like toys and clothes will be more expensive, and in that case you may want to pack some things with you.

Having a baby in a new country will be an experience for any woman. As long as you make sure you are fully prepared before the baby arrives it is sure to be an experience you are glad to remember.