Having a baby in Hungary - Part III. - Preparing for delivery

At this time, English-language Lamaze courses don’t exist in Hungary. But Michelle’s Health & Fitness is offering prenatal courses to help you get ready for delivery.

The gym is located in the Rózsakert Shopping Centre in the II district at Gábor Áron u. 74. The phone number is 391-5808.

When you are packing the bag you will bring with you to the hospital, review the list with your healthcare provider to ensure that you aren't missing anything. Some hospitals provide nightgowns and other items, but it can't hurt to double-check.

Emotional health
Joan Kovach, a Budapest psychiatric nurse / clinical specialist, says that one of the most important things you can do is find a kindred spirit. Pregnancy can be a vulnerable time, and it helps to have someone, such as another pregnant woman, to talk to about your concerns and joys.

Kovach also advises finding a daily routine that you can do faithfully, like always walking to your neighborhood park at 10 a.m. Even if the routine is simple, it will keep you grounded. "It's an anchor, because so much of your life is going to be out of your control," she said. Kovach also advises moms-to-be and new moms to think carefully about their expectations.

Perhaps you wanted a little tutu-wearing princess, but your young daughter seems to be more interested in model trucks. This may be a disappointment, but you'll be happier if you don't dwell on it for too long, Kovach advises. Mourn the loss of your expectation, then let it go.

Kovach also reminds moms-to-be to think about a basic but important question: what language will the baby speak? Many parents want their children to speak Hungarian, even if the parents cannot. It's common to find a Hungarian babysitter to help the baby learn both languages.

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