Mother Knows Best!

Mother Parenting as an expat brings a whole new set of challenges to what is already a fairly challenging time. To give a little insight into the ins and outs of parenting in Hong Kong, we asked long-term expat and mum, AMELIA WILLIAMS, to answer some reader questions.

"I’m newly pregnant and have no idea where I want to give birth. What’s better, public or private?”

Firstly, congrats! Secondly, do some research. While this really is a personal choice, it’s good to chat with other mums who have tried each option, and then you can make an informed decision. If you’re after a deluxe, more personal birth experience that includes choosing your own obstetrician and a really nice hospital, or you want the option of frequent check-ups, and you have insurance (or a spare $100,000 or more), then private is the way to go. If you’re okay with a no-frills approach or your budget is limited, the public system here is world-class, and many mums have had great experiences with it. Bear in mind that if there are any complications with your pregnancy, the public system is your only, and best, option. I had my first child in a private hospital, and ended up in a public hospital after giving birth to my second in the car – so I can vouch for the high quality of both!

“There’s so much controversy over vaccinations; what’s the deal here?”