I got pregnant shortly after moving to Spain. However, my early pregnancy was unstable, and my doctor recommended hospitalization for observation to prevent a miscarriage. I was completely in the dark, totally unfamiliar with the Spanish healthcare system, especially when it came to antenatal care in Spain, and I was very worried about the costs. After a lot of running around, I finally figured things out. Today, I’m writing this post to share with other women on the forum who might need this information or are just curious about the general cost of such care in Spanish hospitals.
Public vs. Private Hospitals
Spain’s healthcare system is divided into public and private sectors, as most of you know. The cost entirely depends on which system you use.
Public Hospitals
If you are registered with social security (Seguridad Social) and have your health card (tarjeta sanitaria), then congratulations! Any medically necessary procedures in a public hospital, including hospitalization for issues like a threatened miscarriage, are completely free, addressing any concerns you may have about antenatal hospitalization costs. Yes, you read that right. From check-ups, medication, and the hospital bed to three meals a day, all expenses are covered by the government. You don’t have to pay a single cent. I went through the public system myself. Besides potentially longer waiting times, the entire process was worry-free, and the doctors and nurses were very responsible.
Private Hospitals
If you don’t have social security or if you have private health insurance, you’ll likely opt for a private hospital. The advantages here are faster service, better facilities, and more personalized care. As for the cost, well, it depends.
- With Private Insurance: Most private health insurance policies will cover the costs of hospitalization for pregnancy complications. However, the reimbursement amount and whether there’s a deductible depend entirely on your policy’s terms. Some basic plans might not cover maternity-related hospitalization or may have coverage limits. So, before getting insurance or going to the hospital, it is absolutely crucial to confirm the scope of your coverage with the insurance company!
- Paying Out-of-Pocket: If you have no insurance and are paying entirely yourself, the costs can be quite high. A single day in a private hospital can range from €400 to €800, and that’s just for the room. Add in various tests, medications, and doctor’s fees, and a week’s stay will easily cost several thousand euros. Specific prices vary by hospital and city, but here is a rough guide I’ve put together:
| Item | Approximate Cost in Madrid/Barcelona |
|---|
| Standard Private Room (per day) | €450 - €800 |
| Doctor’s Rounds (per day) | €100 - €200 |
| Basic Medication and Nursing (per day) | €50 - €150 |
| Ultrasound and Other Scans (per test) | €100 - €300 |
If you have legal residency and contribute to social security, you generally don’t have to worry about the financial aspects of childbirth or pregnancy complication care in Spain. The public healthcare system provides a solid safety net. However, if you’re a tourist or on a short-term stay without insurance, hospitalization can be a significant expense. I hope my experience is helpful to everyone, and I wish all expectant mothers in Spain a smooth and safe pregnancy and a healthy baby!
