Prenatal care is provided by primary care gynaecologists and is fully covered by the state health insurance system, ensuring expectant mothers receive the necessary medical support throughout their pregnancy. This means that all pregnant women who have compulsory health insurance or are entitled to benefits under it are eligible for free gynaecological care throughout pregnancy.
Additionally, pregnant women applying for international protection have the same healthcare rights as insured individuals under the compulsory health insurance system.
The first prenatal examination typically takes place between the 8th and 12th week of pregnancy. Around the 12th week, the gynaecologist provides the expectant mother with a pregnancy booklet, where all relevant medical information and check-ups are recorded.
Pregnancy-related examinations with a primary care gynaecologist are fully covered and require no payment from the pregnant woman. However, those who choose to have their pregnancy monitored by a private gynaecologist must cover all costs themselves. Prices for prenatal check-ups with a private gynaecologist start at approximately €80 and can vary depending on the services provided.
Pregnancy check-up
Call your primary gynaecologist to schedule an appointment and be sure to inform the nurse that you are pregnant. Keep in mind that wait times at primary care gynaecologists can be long, so be prepared for possible delays. Be sure to bring something to read.
During a routine check-up, the nurse will typically ask you to provide a urine sample to test for protein, measure and record your weight and blood pressure, and confirm the date of your last period. This is followed by a doctor's examination.
This may include a vaginal exam to check the cervix (though some doctors no longer perform this routinely), an ultrasound scan, and measurement and and palpation of the abdomen, especially in the second half of pregnancy. After the examination, there will be time to discuss any concerns or questions you may have, so it's helpful to prepare them in advance.
Standard care for pregnant women
Croatian perinatal standards define the number of prenatal check-ups, ultrasounds, and other tests that a healthy pregnant woman should undergo during pregnancy. Typically, two appointments are scheduled in the first trimester, three in the second, and four in the third. Check-ups are usually conducted about every four weeks, becoming more frequent as the pregnancy progresses.
For healthy pregnancies, three ultrasounds are planned: one between 10 and 14 weeks, another between 18 and 22 weeks, and the third between 32 and 36 weeks. Some of these ultrasounds will be performed at the doctor's office, while others may require a referral to a local hospital, often because the hospital has more advanced ultrasound equipment.
If the pregnancy is considered high-risk, the frequency and type of examinations will be adjusted according to individual needs. If a referral is needed for a specialist examination at a hospital in another city, such as a high-risk pregnancy specialist, travel expenses may be reimbursed if the round trip exceeds 50 km. The primary gynaecologist can provide more details, and the hospital must certify the necessary documentation to qualify for reimbursement.
Prenatal care provided by a primary gynaecologist is fully covered by state health insurance for all insured pregnant women. However, some doctors may attempt to charge for these examinations, often requesting cash payments. If this happens, it is important to remind them that compulsory health insurance covers all prenatal care services.
Doctors may vary in their communication style. Some take a directive approach, giving instructions without encouraging patient input, while others foster open dialogue and invite women to actively participate in healthcare decisions. Regardless of the doctor's approach, it is essential to insist on clear answers to any questions and ensure that all concerns are addressed during each visit.
Additional support during pregnancy
As your pregnancy nears its end, you have the right to visits from a community nurse. If you would like a visit before giving birth, ask your primary gynaecologist or nurse for guidance on how to arrange it.
A community nurse can provide valuable support, offering information and advice to help you prepare for childbirth.
Near the end of pregnancy
Around the 36th week of pregnancy, your primary gynaecologist will refer you to the hospital where you plan to give birth for continued care. Your first hospital check-up typically takes place in the 37th week, with follow-up visits scheduled weekly until the 40th week. After that, appointments become more frequent, usually every two days. Some doctors may recommend more frequent check-ups even before the 40th week. A standard hospital examination often includes a vaginal exam to assess cervical changes, an amnioscopy to check amniotic fluid (especially in multiple pregnancies), a CTG (to monitor the baby’s heartbeat for 20–30 minutes, an ultrasound, and possibly additional tests.
The procedures and tests available in Croatia may differ from those in your home country, so it is important to stay informed about their benefits and limitations. Understanding your options will help you make informed decisions about your care.
Blood tests
At your first prenatal check-up, you will receive instructions for an initial blood test, which includes a standard blood panel, blood type determination, and screening for certain sexually transmitted infections.
Screening for gestational diabetes is conducted between the 20th and 28th week of pregnancy as part of a repeat blood test. A final round of blood tests is performed after the 30th week, with an additional test for women who have a negative blood type.
If you are considering a water birth, be sure to ask about any additional urine or blood tests that may be required in the later stages of pregnancy.
Prenatal courses
Prenatal courses are usually offered at local health centres, but there are also online courses available in Croatian, such as the parenting courses provided by the Roda Association. These courses are free of charge. In addition, private courses are available, either online or in-person, so it is worth exploring options in your area. It's best to start looking for a birth and breastfeeding preparation course around the 20th week of pregnancy to ensure you find one that fits your schedule and takes place before your due date.
If you are staying in group accommodation, ask the staff if any pregnancy courses are organized by NGOs for pregnant women in similar situations. You can also check the websites of organizations that support refugees for additional resources.
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