What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Venice?

"Firstly, it's important to familiarize yourself with the Italian healthcare system. Italy has a high standard of healthcare and pregnant women are well cared for. However, you may want to consider hiring a doula or midwife who speaks your language to help navigate the system and provide support during the birth. Secondly, ensure you have all the necessary paperwork in order. This includes your residence permit, health insurance details, and any other documents required by the hospital. It's also a good idea to have these documents translated into Italian to avoid any misunderstandings. Thirdly, consider taking Italian language classes if you don't already speak the language. This will make it easier to communicate with healthcare professionals and understand any medical terms or procedures. Fourthly, be aware that Italian culture places a strong emphasis on family. This means that you may be expected to have family members present during the birth, and there may be a lot of social visits after the baby is born. Fifthly, make sure you understand the maternity leave laws in Italy. These are quite generous compared to other countries, but it's important to know your rights and obligations. Lastly, try to connect with other expat parents in Venice. They can provide invaluable advice and support, and may be able to recommend English-speaking doctors or other services," said another expat in Venice, Italy.