Vietnam, located in Southeast Asia, is a country with a population of over 97 million people. In Vietnam, pregnancy and childbirth are considered special events that involve family and community members. In this article, we will explore the most common options for giving birth in Vietnam, the steps to register a birth, and the attitudes and legislation surrounding abortion.
Giving Birth in Vietnam
Most births in Vietnam occur in hospitals, with around 90% of women choosing to give birth in a healthcare facility. Home births are not common in Vietnam, and are typically only chosen in rural areas where access to healthcare facilities is limited.
During pregnancy, women in Vietnam receive prenatal care from a midwife or obstetrician, and may have several ultrasound exams throughout their pregnancy. Hospitals in Vietnam typically offer a range of birthing options, including vaginal birth and cesarean section.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in natural birth options in Vietnam, with the introduction of birth centers and water birth options in some hospitals. However, these options are not yet widely available throughout the country.
Registering a Birth in Vietnam
In Vietnam, registering a birth is a legal requirement and must be done within 60 days of the child’s birth. Here are the steps to register a birth in Vietnam:
- Obtain a birth notification form (Giấy Báo Sinh) from the hospital or local government office.
- Fill out the form with the necessary information, including the child’s name, date of birth, and parents’ information.
- Provide the hospital or local government office with any necessary supporting documents, such as the child’s birth certificate and the parents’ identification cards.
- Once the form is completed and all supporting documents are provided, the hospital or local government office will issue a birth certificate.
It is important to note that both parents must be present to register the birth and provide their identification cards. If one parent is unable to be present, they can provide a notarized letter of authorization for the other parent to complete the registration process.
Attitudes and Legislation Surrounding Abortion in Vietnam
Abortion is legal in Vietnam and has been since 1989. The country’s abortion law allows for women to have an abortion for any reason up to 12 weeks of pregnancy, and up to 22 weeks in certain circumstances, such as if the pregnancy is a risk to the mother’s life or health.
While abortion is legal in Vietnam, it is not always readily accessible to women, particularly those living in rural areas. There is also a stigma surrounding abortion in Vietnamese culture, which can make it difficult for women to seek the care they need.
In recent years, there has been a push to increase access to reproductive healthcare services in Vietnam, including access to contraceptives and safe abortion care. The government has implemented initiatives to increase education and awareness about family planning and reproductive health, as well as to improve access to healthcare facilities.
In Vietnam, giving birth in a hospital is the most common option for women, with prenatal care provided by midwives or obstetricians. Registering a birth in Vietnam is a legal requirement and must be done within 60 days of the child’s birth. Abortion is legal in Vietnam and has been since 1989, but access to care can be limited in certain areas and there is a cultural stigma surrounding the procedure. The government has implemented initiatives to increase access to reproductive healthcare services and improve education and awareness about family planning and reproductive health.