How much does Childbirth cost in Ghana

The cost of childbirth in Ghana can vary greatly depending on the type of delivery and where it takes place. Deliveries in Ghanaian hospitals are more expensive than at home, health centers, or traditional birth attendants’ homes. The costs vary significantly depending on the specific location and the services offered. This article will provide an overview of the typical costs associated with childbirth in Ghana, to help you make an informed decision about your delivery plan.

Child birth in Ghana

Childbirth is an important milestone for many families in Ghana, and there are a variety of options for where and how to deliver. In Ghana, childbirth is generally considered safe, with a 95 percent survival rate for mothers and newborns. The most common option for childbirth is delivering at a hospital. However, there are other options available such as delivery at home, at a traditional birth attendant’s home, or at a health center.
It is important to note that the cost of delivery can vary depending on the type of facility chosen

1. The cost of delivery in Ghanaian hospitals

A normal delivery in a public hospital in Ghana will cost between GHS 500 to GHS 3,000. For a Caesarean section, the cost will be significantly higher and could range from GHS 2,500 – GHS 5,000. Private hospitals tend to charge more than public hospitals, with costs starting from around GHS 1,200 for a normal delivery and GHS 5,000 for a C-section.

These costs do not include prenatal or postnatal care or other additional services. Fees for consultations, laboratory tests, medication and ultrasounds may add up to the cost of childbirth, so it’s worth checking with the hospital beforehand what is included in their packages.

2. The cost of delivery at home

Having a child at home in Ghana can be an expensive affair. Home births are often arranged through traditional birth attendants (TBAs), and the cost can vary depending on the attendant’s experience and the kind of delivery you are expecting. Generally, fees for home deliveries range from GHS 300 – GHS 1,000. This includes the fee for the TBA, as well as additional costs such as transport, drugs and other materials needed. While these fees are usually lower than the cost of a hospital delivery, the quality of care provided may not be as good.

3. The cost of delivery at a health center

For those who don’t want the hassle of going to a hospital or traditional birth attendant, a health center is the way to go. The cost of delivering at a health center will vary depending on the services provided and the location of the center. You can expect to pay between GHS 400 – GHS 900 for delivery at a health center. This will include costs for antenatal care and postnatal care, along with the delivery itself. The cost may be higher in some locations due to factors like transportation, extra facilities, and the availability of specialists.

Tips to help you plan and prepare for your baby’s arrival

1. Start preparing for your baby’s arrival at least 6 months before the due date. Begin researching birth centers and hospitals in your area, as well as obstetricians or midwives.
2. Visit the hospital or birth center where you plan to deliver and take a tour of the facilities. Be sure to ask any questions you may have about their policies, procedures, and costs.
3. Learn about labor and delivery, including pain management techniques. Find out about relaxation methods, breathing techniques, and coping mechanisms that can help make the process easier.
4. Create a birth plan that outlines your preferences for labor, delivery, and postpartum care. Share it with your doctor or midwife so they are aware of your wishes and can ensure they are respected throughout the process.
5. Choose a support team that you trust to provide emotional and physical assistance during labor and delivery. This could include a partner, family member, friend, or other professional.
6. Take prenatal classes to learn more about childbirth and parenting. Many of these classes also provide an opportunity to connect with other parents-to-be and build a network of support.
7. Make sure you have your hospital bag packed early with everything you need for delivery, such as snacks, toiletries, clothes for both you and your baby, and any medical documents.
8. Talk to your health insurance provider to understand what is covered and what will need to be paid out-of-pocket for delivery-related expenses.

Final words

It is important to consider all your options when deciding where to have your baby, as costs can quickly add up if you are not careful. If you are worried about affordability, it is worth speaking to your healthcare provider to see what kind of financial assistance may be available. It is also worth speaking to friends and family who have recently gone through childbirth in Ghana to get an idea of what their experience was like.