Pregnant in Curaçao, what can I expect?
By Steffen van Heijningen
On vacation, just moved, or do you live on Curaçao and are you pregnant? How does that work and what do you have to take into account?
Expectant mothers in Curaçao benefit from a large network of general practitioners, obstetricians, gynaecologists and ultrasound practices.
Initial Steps
Pregnant individuals should schedule a consultation with their general practitioner to discuss their pregnancy approach, concerns, and any medical conditions requiring specialized care. GPs can perform early ultrasounds or refer patients to ultrasound facilities, typically covered by insurance.
Care Options
After GP consultation, patients may select either midwife-led or gynecologist-led care. Those choosing midwifery can deliver at a maternity clinic or home setting. Gynecologist-supervised pregnancies require hospital delivery.
Available Testing
The NIPT screening test is accessible but requires out-of-pocket payment, with samples sent to Belgium for analysis. Standard ultrasounds include dating scans and structural examinations at 20 weeks. The 13-week ultrasound, while not yet standard locally, can be arranged. Non-medical 3D ultrasounds are also available.
Zika Virus
Zika transmission risk has decreased significantly since 2019, with no local cases reported recently — eliminating concerns for pregnant travelers.
In Closing
Enjoy your tropical pregnancy! Just don’t forget the sunscreen.