Compassionate Perinatal Support for Every Step of Your Journey
Find your perinatal supporter who speaks English.
Justine
Susana
Margarida
Justine played a crucial role in our transition to Lisbon during my pregnancy. She clarified all procedures for childbirth and follow-up, easing our anxiety significantly. Her workshops are interesting and...
Susana is a beautiful person with so much kindness and thoughtfulness. She truly supported not just me but my entire family, providing resources that were beyond my expectations. Her guidance...
I was one of Margarida's first clients when she started her perinatal support service 10 years ago, and her expertise has consistently impressed me. As a mother of three, I...
Frequently Asked Questions
Lisbon offers doulas for birth and postpartum, independent midwifery support for education and birth preparation, IBCLC lactation consultants, antenatal and childbirth classes (including hypnobirthing), pelvic floor physiotherapy, and perinatal mental health therapy. Many providers also offer newborn sleep and feeding guidance tailored to expat families.
Yes. Lisbon hosts many English-speaking perinatal professionals, and you’ll also find Portuguese, Spanish, French and German speakers. Providers are used to supporting international parents; confirm languages in their profile and with a quick WhatsApp or phone chat to ensure clear communication throughout pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period.
Private perinatal support complements, rather than replaces, your clinical care through Portugal's SNS or private hospitals. Doulas and independent midwives focus on education, comfort, advocacy and continuity, while obstetricians and hospital midwives manage medical decisions. Keep all teams informed so your birth preferences and postpartum plan are respected.
Check qualifications and scope: IBCLC for lactation; licensed physiotherapist for pelvic floor; hospital midwife or obstetric team for clinical care. Doulas aren't regulated in Portugal, so prioritise training, experience and recent reviews. Request references, discuss approach and back up cover, and book a short call to assess rapport and responsiveness.
Typical Lisbon ranges: group antenatal classes €80–€200, private classes €150–€350; IBCLC home visit €70–€130; birth doula package €600–€1,200; postpartum doula €20–€35/hour; pelvic floor physio €45–€80/session. Prices are set by each provider, paid directly to them, and are not listed on Locallista.
Secure a doula by the second trimester if possible, as popular weekends fill quickly. Plan childbirth or hypnobirthing courses for weeks 24–32; schedule pelvic floor physio late in pregnancy and from six weeks postpartum. Pre-book lactation and postpartum doula slots around your due date with flexible timing.
Most Lisbon hospitals allow one birth companion; whether that can be a doula depends on each hospital's policy and current guidelines. Confirm in advance with your chosen facility, and have a backup plan. Many families use a doula for antenatal preparation and early home visits if hospital access is restricted.
Yes. Many doulas, IBCLCs, therapists and physiotherapists offer home visits across Greater Lisbon (city centre, Cascais, Oeiras, Almada and Sintra), sometimes with a travel fee. Online consultations are widely available for antenatal education, breastfeeding support and perinatal mental health, ideal if you've just arrived or prefer flexible scheduling.
Coverage varies by insurer and policy. Private plans often reimburse pelvic floor physiotherapy, mental health therapy and medically indicated lactation care; doulas and antenatal classes are rarely covered. Request detailed invoices and check pre-authorisation rules; public SNS services run separately from private perinatal support.
Response times are generally fast, with many providers replying the same day via WhatsApp or phone. For urgent breastfeeding or postpartum concerns, search for IBCLC consultants offering rapid home or online visits; for longer-term support, shortlist and contact providers early to secure continuity of care.
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Dos and Don’ts to choose the right Perinatal support as an Expat
Smart choices: dos and don’ts for selecting the ideal perinatal support
Choose a perinatal support provider who tailors their services to your unique needs and personality. This individualized approach ensures you receive compassionate care that resonates with you, enhancing your overall experience during pregnancy and postpartum.
Select a service provider who demonstrates a strong commitment to being available when you need them. Look for those who offer ongoing support even after sessions, ensuring you always have guidance and assistance during your perinatal journey.
Prioritize hiring a perinatal support professional with a proven track record of reliability and expertise. Seek reviews that highlight their ability to navigate local procedures and provide invaluable resources regarding childbirth and postpartum care.
Choose a service provider who emphasizes holistic family support. Look for testimonials that mention how they engage with partners and siblings, ensuring that the whole family feels included and cared for during the transition into parenthood.
Choosing a service provider who lacks clear availability can lead to feeling unsupported during crucial times. Look for someone who has a proven track record of being easily reachable and responsive, especially during stressful events like childbirth and postpartum.
Opting for providers who offer one-size-fits-all services may not meet your specific needs or preferences. Seek professionals who emphasize personalized care and have experience tailoring their approach to individual families’ experiences and dynamics.
Selecting a perinatal support provider without relevant experience can leave you ill-prepared for unique challenges such as postpartum recovery, premature births, or complications like C-sections. Prioritize professionals with a strong background in diverse perinatal situations.
Choosing a provider who doesn't offer educational resources or tools can limit your preparedness for childbirth and parenting. Ensure that the professional you hire provides valuable supplementary information that can enhance your journey and confidence.
Navigating the world of perinatal support is a crucial step in ensuring a positive and fulfilling journey into parenthood. Selecting the right provider can significantly influence your experience during pregnancy and postpartum. By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you'll be empowered to find a professional who not only meets your unique needs but also engages with your family holistically. Keep in mind that personalized, responsive care and educational resources are essential in preparing for the challenges ahead. Trust your instincts, seek tailored support, and embrace the transition to parenthood with confidence and peace of mind.
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