The initial elation of becoming a parent can quickly be overshadowed by the terror of having to pay sky-high medical fees.
And it's easy to assume that receiving the best care is only possible via private medical establishments because government facilities have been stigmatised for poor-quality service.
Contrary to this perception, it is indeed possible to get quality treatment from your local government hospital – with some like the Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town gaining international recognition in 2017.
All South Africans have a right to free maternity treatment during pregnancy as well as postnatal care after baby is born, and we've written extensively on every aspect of what you can expect – from practical advice from experts to the lived experience of other mothers – which you'll find useful in guiding your choice.
Use the index below to research your options.
Expert guidance
5 things you need to know to prepare for your government hospital birth
From official documentation, booking your hospital bed and your rights as a patient, we get practical about exactly what will be required of you when heading to your local government hospital to give birth. By Sr Burgie Ireland, Your Pregnancy
Are government hospitals safe?
An expert answers a reader's question. Health24
What other moms had to say
Reader's Respond: Giving birth at a government hospital
Here's what our readers have to say about giving birth at government hospitals. Parent24
SA's government hospitals: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly
More women from across South Africa tell us about their experiences giving birth at government hospitals. Parent24
"Hospital birth? Never again!"
A reader shares her horrific birth experience and vows to never give birth in a hospital again. Parent24
Navigating hospital protocol
Hospital admin when you're in labour
If your man is a scatter-brain (or a panic mechanic), make sure he knows the route to the hospital and has enough petrol in the car at all times! Your Pregnancy
How to choose your hospital for birth
Consider these 12 questions when you choose your hospital. Health24
What about pain relief options?
Bring on the drugs! Pain relief options in childbirth
If you want to do vaginal birth, but want some medicated help in coping with labour pain, here’s what modern day medicine has to offer and which of these pain relief options are available in government hospitals. By Tina Otte, Parent24
Getting organised
What do I pack in my hospital bag for labour?
It’s never too early to pack your suitcase. Here’s our list of must-haves to see you through the first exciting days in hospital...Your Pregnancy
Hospital bags from around the world
7 women share what they've packed for the labour ward. By Caira-lee Durand
How to choose your hospital for birth
Consider these 12 questions when you choose your hospital. Health24
Where’s the best place to give birth in South Africa?
Expectant parents have lots of choices to make when it comes to making a birth plan. Parent24
Printable: Birth Plan
Birth is one of the least predictable things but at least the hospital staff can have some idea of how to proceed. Parent24
What about medical aid?
Medical aid: Not covered?
What to do when you fall pregnant but don't have medical insurance. Parent24
Affordable maternity care for moms without medical aid
An initiative making giving birth at private hospitals more affordable for moms without the finances to do so. Parent24
Still unsure a government hospital birth is for you?
Your birth options
Hospital birth or home birth? Vaginal or Caesarean? And what is a ventouse or VBAC? We take you through your birth options. By Tina Otte, Parent24
Are you planning on giving birth at a government hospital? Do you have any particular concerns? Tell us by emailing to chatback@parent24.com and we could publish your letter. Do let us know if you'd like to stay anonymous.
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