Choosing the right maternity care for your pregnancy is an important step for your health and your baby’s wellbeing.
In Ireland, expectant mothers can choose between public, semi-private, or private care, depending on their needs, preferences, and budget.
At Ultrascan, we regularly support parents throughout their journey with high-quality diagnostic ultrasound scans that complement all types of maternity care. Below, we break down your care options in simple terms.
What is public maternity care?
Public care is free of charge for anyone living in Ireland under the Maternity and Infant Care Scheme.
Key features:
– Available in all maternity hospitals
– Care is mostly provided by midwives, with support from GPs and hospital doctors
– Shared or “combined care” is common (some visits with your GP, some at hospital)
– Labour and birth are usually attended by the midwife team
– If complications arise, doctors and obstetricians are involved
– After the birth, you’ll stay in a public ward
Extras:
Some hospitals offer home birth services and midwife-led continuity schemes such as DOMINO (for low-risk pregnancies), which includes home visits after early discharge.
What is semi-private maternity care?
Semi-private care is a paid option, available only in Dublin maternity hospitals. It combines public and private elements.
Key features:
– You are under the care of a consultant obstetrician, but may also see registrars and midwives
– Appointments take place in hospital private clinics
– Shared postnatal care in a semi-private ward (3–5 patients per room)
– Extra services are available, such as shorter waiting times and some private scans
Costs:
– Covered partly by private health insurance or paid directly
– Be sure to check with your provider for exact coverage
What is private maternity care?
Private maternity care is the most personalised option, available in all maternity hospitals in Ireland. It offers the highest level of continuity and individualised attention.
Key features:
– You choose and see your own consultant obstetrician for every antenatal appointment
– Your consultant attends the birth (when available) and oversees your care
– Greater access to private rooms, subject to availability
– Faster access to tests and diagnostic scans
– More flexible scheduling and fewer waiting times
Costs:
– Involves a consultant’s fee and a hospital fee
– Private health insurance usually covers the hospital portion, but not always the consultant’s fee
What are the differences between maternity care options in Ireland?
| FEATURE | PUBLIC CARE | SEMI-PRIVATE CARE | PRIVATE CARE |
| Cost | Free | Partially covered or Paid | Paid (insurance may help) |
| Consultant Access | Only if complications | Assigned consultant | Chosen consultant |
| Scan Access | Based on clinical need | Some flexibility | Full access |
| Room Type After Birth | Shared public ward | Semi-private ward (if available) | Private room (if available) |
| Waiting time | Long | Moderate | Short |
| Continuity of Care | Midwife-led | Mixed | Consultant-led |
How does Ultrascan support your maternity journey?
No matter what type of care you choose, Ultrascan provides expert ultrasound scans to support your pregnancy and peace of mind.
– Early pregnancy scans (from 8 weeks)
– Gender determination scans (from 16 weeks)
– Late reassurance scans (from 14 weeks)
– 3D/4D baby scans (from 24 weeks)
We also offer medical and paediatric ultrasounds for all ages, including women and children, which can complement the care you receive in hospital.
Located near the Red Cow in Dublin, we offer easy access and free parking on site.
Our experienced, sonographers and consultant radiologists ensure every scan is done with precision and care.
FAQ about Maternity Care in Ireland
What maternity care is free in Ireland?
Is private maternity care better than public care?
The choice depends on your preferences, risk factors, and budget.
Does Ultrascan offer pregnancy care?
Can I use Ultrascan if I’m a public patient?
Book your ultrasound today and experience care that puts you first.
How do I book a scan at Ultrascan?
Ultrascan is Ireland’s highest-rated private ultrasound clinic. Whether you’re looking for peace of mind or planning a gender reveal, we’re here to support your pregnancy journey with care, compassion, and clinical precision.
