After giving birth, you are entitled to additional care and support for at least first six weeks (and beyond if needed).
If you are pregnant or an applicant for international protection, you are entitled to healthcare for pregnancy and childbirth under the same conditions as individuals covered by Croatia’s compulsory health insurance system or those who qualify for it on other legal grounds.
Hospital stay
The typical hospital stay after childbirth in Croatia is 2-3 days for a vaginal birth and 5-7 days for a caesarean section, depending on the hospital. If additional medical care is necessary, you may stay longer or receive outpatient treatment. Choose the option that best suits your needs.
Visits from a community nurse
After returning home with your newborn, you have the right to visits from a community nurse. The first visit is usually arranged within 24-48 hours of hospital discharge, although this may vary depending on your location or if you were discharged over the weekend. Community nurses are based in health centres but work in coordination with hospitals to schedule home visits. If you gave birth in a hospital outside your place of residence, you may need to contact the community nurse service in your local area yourself. If needed, your primary gynaecologist or family doctor can assist you in scheduling a visit.
Community nurses provide essential postpartum support, including guidance on breastfeeding, newborn care and hygiene, and advice on postpartum recovery. Typically, nurses visit every 2-3 days during the first week, then less frequently as your baby grows. If you need more frequent visits, you can request them. Likewise, if you feel confident in your postpartum care, you can opt out of the visits.
These services are fully covered by compulsory health insurance. A community nurse can assist with most postpartum recovery concerns and refer you to your primary gynaecologist if deemed necessary. If you have any urgent concerns or need immediate medical attention, go to the emergency room for gynaecological care.
First postpartum check-up
It is recommended that mothers schedule their first gynaecological examination six weeks after childbirth with their primary gynaecologist. Since appointments fill up quickly, book your visit at least three weeks in advance. This check-up usually includes an ultrasound and a general examination, as well as an opportunity to discuss any concerns about your recovery, contraception, or other health-related topics.
Mental health support
It is completely normal to need mental health support during pregnancy and the postpartum period. However, accessing these services in Croatia, especially through the public healthcare system, can be challenging. Ask your community nurse or primary gynaecologist about available support in your area. Many services are offered privately or through NGOs as part of specific programs.
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