Episode
Pregnant in Japan: My Experience with Check-Ups, Paperwork, and Cultural Surprises
- Podcast
- Matcha Mum's
- Published
- Jun 6, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1450
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://rss.com/podcasts/matcha-mum-s/2879384
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Summary
What is it really like to navigate pregnancy in Japan? In this first episode of my Japan pregnancy series, I share my personal experience with the Japanese prenatal care system—from the first positive pregnancy test to completing my check-ups at 35 weeks. Along the way, I explain how the system works, what surprised me, and some of the cultural differences I noticed. In this episode, we cover: • Registering your pregnancy and receiving the Boshi Techo (Maternal & Child Health Handbook) • The maternity mark and public transport culture • Financial support, coupons, and birth allowances • How prenatal check-ups are structured in Japan • Frequent ultrasounds and routine screenings • Weight management and nutrition advice • Language barriers and navigating appointments as a foreigner • Why I changed hospitals during my pregnancy • What I appreciated about the Japanese system—and what I found challenging This episode combines practical information with my own experience as a foreign mother navigating pregnancy in Japan. Whether you're expecting a baby in Japan, planning a move, or simply curious about how pregnancy care differs around the world, I hope this episode gives you a helpful and honest insight into the journey. Contact Information: Host: Tamara E-Mail: [email protected]