Before your baby is born

Choices in antenatal care
Outlining the choices in antenatal care in Ireland, combined, private, semi-private and public.

Maternity and Infant Care Services
The public health service provides free maternity services for all expectant mothers for the period of the pregnancy and for 6 weeks after the birth.
This document is in: Health > Women's health

Flexible maternity services
An outline of maternity hospitals in Ireland offering more flexible maternity services.

Home birth
How to arrange a home birth in Ireland.

Antenatal visits
During pregnancy in Ireland, the mother and baby's health is monitored through antenatal appointments. Description of the booking visit and subsequent visits.

Antenatal classes
Antenatal classes in Ireland are provided by your hospital and help parents prepare for the birth of your baby. Find out more.

Maternity Benefit
Maternity Benefit is a payment by the Department of Social Protection to women on maternity leave from work. Find out more about Maternity Benefit and how to apply.
This document is in: Social Welfare > Social welfare payments > Families and children

Maternity leave
All female employees are entitled to maternity leave from work immediately before and after the birth of their child. Find out more.
This document is in: Employment > Employment rights and conditions > Leave and holidays

Health and Safety Benefit
A summary of Health and Safety Benefit for pregnant/breastfeeding women.
This document is in: Social Welfare > Social welfare payments > Families and children

Health and safety at work
Employers' responsibilities to employees regarding health and safety measures in the workplace
This document is in: Employment > Employment rights and conditions > Health and safety