Giving Birth to My First Child in São Paulo, Brazil

A Journey of Uncertainty, Empowerment, and Motherhood in a Foreign Land

Becoming a mother is one of the most transformative experiences in life. But going through it in a foreign country, far from the familiar faces and customs of home, adds layers of uncertainty and vulnerability. My journey to motherhood in São Paulo, Brazil, was a mix of emotions: excitement, fear, empowerment, and ultimately, deep resilience.

Changing My Birth Plan at Seven Months Pregnant

When I first learned I was pregnant, I naively assumed I would have full control over my birth experience. However, by the time I reached seven months, I realized that in Brazil, the decision of whether I would have a cesarean or vaginal birth was not truly mine to make—it was in the hands of my obstetrician. The high rate of C-sections in private hospitals made it clear that if I stayed with my current team, I would likely be pushed toward surgery, regardless of my wishes.

This realization was terrifying, but it also fueled my determination. I made the difficult decision to change my entire birth team. I found a German obstetrician who specialized in natural births, someone who truly listened to me and respected my choices. For the first time, I felt a sense of control over my own body again. I carefully selected my midwife and doula, creating a supportive environment that I knew would help me face whatever labor would bring.

The Challenge of a Natural Birth in a Highly Medicalized System

I chose to give birth at Hospital Albert Einstein, one of the most renowned hospitals in Brazil. The level of care and medical expertise was exceptional—there was no doubt I was in good hands. But despite its excellence, the hospital was not designed for women who wanted to birth naturally. Most women who passed through its doors were scheduled for C-sections, and I felt like an anomaly in my desire to labor without unnecessary interventions.

Even with my carefully chosen team, I had to advocate for myself every step of the way. The labor room was not naturally conducive to movement or physiological birth, and I had to insist on keeping my autonomy. It was exhausting but also incredibly empowering.

The Unexpected Challenges of Postpartum

Giving birth was only the beginning. The postpartum period hit me in ways I hadn’t expected. Breastfeeding was an uphill battle. My baby struggled with reflux, making each feeding session feel like a fight rather than a moment of bonding. I was exhausted, overwhelmed, and struggling to adapt to this new identity as a mother.

Loneliness weighed heavily on me. In Brazil, there is immense societal pressure to breastfeed, and the availability of formula is extremely limited. This made me feel trapped—like I had no real alternative even when breastfeeding felt unbearable.

There were moments when I questioned if I was failing as a mother. The combination of exhaustion, cultural expectations, and physical recovery created a storm of emotions that I hadn’t been prepared for.

Finding Strength in the Struggle

Despite the challenges, my experience in Brazil taught me invaluable lessons. I learned that advocating for myself was not just an option—it was a necessity. I discovered that the right support system can make all the difference, whether in labor or the difficult postpartum days. And most importantly, I realized that motherhood is not about perfection but about resilience, love, and learning to trust oneself.

For any expat preparing to give birth in a foreign country, my advice is simple: do your research, find professionals who align with your values, and don’t be afraid to change course if something doesn’t feel right. Birth and motherhood are deeply personal experiences, and every woman deserves to feel heard, respected, and supported—no matter where in the world she gives birth.