I am currently expecting twins and will be relocating to Zurich in August. The babies are due in November. I have tried searching on this forum for a confinement lady but am unable to find any answer. FYI, a confinement lady is someone who is an expert in Asian (particularly Chinese) post natal practices, helps out the mother by taking care of the baby for the first 30 days after delivery and also cooks traditional nutritious food for the mother.
I know in the West mothers do not use the services of a confinement lady and are expected to "get on with things". My husband who is Swiss does not understand such practices as no one in his family has done it. However, he has no objections to my request. As I am an Asian, I do not see why I should be deprived of such services despite moving to Switzerland.
I would like to enquire whether any of the members here have used the services of a confinement lady in Switzerland and what are the costs involved. If such services are not available, I am contemplating bringing in a confinement lady from Malaysia. What kind of paperwork would I need to prepare in order to do this? Really appreciate it if you could assist me with my enquiries. Thanks so much.
In the western culture we often refer to this as a babynurse but basically, many new moms need help, particularly if they are having twins. If you do not have a family member who can come and stay with you, then I think asking for help is not an unusual request. I am certain you could find a nanny/housekeeper locally who has experience with newborns and can cook, for your husband as well , basic cleaning and help you out. Hiring someone locally makes more sense to me as they can also help you become familiar with living here.
My wife, though not Chinese, had a Pui Yuet as well. I recall the haruan fish ( that was over 11 years ago - today they have tablets I believe ) and baby shark meal and a couple of special soups.
So she needs to be familiar with specific traditions and know how to cook specific foods? Hm, that makes it harder.
The German word for someone similar is "Hauspflegerin" or "Hauspflegehilfe"... responsibilities might not be exactly the same (e.g. they are not normally live-in so wouldn't help with night feedings) but it may be a good place to start looking.
Your health insurance may cover part of the cost - look into it!
I am thinking whether I should hire a confinement nanny and a maid since I'm a first time mom. The other option is using one of those companies that provides meals and hire a nanny who can help me take care of the baby.
But I got good information from prenatal classes . Guys if you suffering from the same then just check that out.