Pregnancy checkups in Japan can feel very different from what many foreigners are used to.
From frequent appointments and ultrasounds to government support systems you may not expect, Japan’s prenatal care has its own unique style.
In this article, I’ll explain how pregnancy checkups work in Japan, how much they cost, what surprised me the most, and share my real experience living and giving birth in Japan.
If you’re pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or simply curious about maternity care in Japan, this guide will help you feel more prepared.
What Are Pregnancy Checkups Like in Japan?
Pregnancy checkups in Japan are generally very frequent, detailed, and carefully monitored.
Compared to some Western countries, Japan tends to take a more cautious and medicalized approach to prenatal care.
How Pregnancy Care Works in Japan
Once your pregnancy is confirmed, you’ll visit an OB-GYN clinic or hospital regularly throughout your pregnancy.
At each visit, doctors typically check:
- Your weight and blood pressure
- Urine samples
- Baby’s heartbeat and growth
- Ultrasound images (often at every visit)
The focus is on monitoring progress closely and catching even small changes early.
In my case, I was nervous all the time if there is no problem. But all the staff was very nice and kind that helped me a lot.
How Often Are Pregnancy Checkups? Schedule by week
The general schedule looks like this:
- Up to 23 weeks: once every 4 weeks
- 24–35 weeks: once every 2 weeks
- 36 weeks onward: once a week
For many foreigners, this feels like a lot of appointments.
However, this frequency is normal in Japan and reflects how seriously pregnancy care is taken.
First Pregnancy Checkup in Japan: Step-by-Step
The first pregnancy checkup in Japan may differ from what you expect, especially if you’re used to immediate medical visits after a positive test.
When to Visit a Clinic After a Positive Test
In Japan, doctors usually recommend visiting an OB-GYN around 6–7 weeks of pregnancy, once the heartbeat can be confirmed. Going too early may result in being told to “come back later.”
I went through IVF at fertility clinic, and transfered to OBGYN after 8 weeks with a reference paper from the clinic.
What to Bring to Your First Appointment
For your first visit, it’s helpful to bring:
- Your health insurance card or My Number Card if registered to use as a health insurance *Usually not able to use a health insurance for maternital checkups though
- Cash (some clinics don’t accept cards)
- Medication Record Book (Okusuri Techo) if you have one
- Reference paper if you have one
- Any notes or questions you have
You won’t receive the Maternal Health Handbook yet—that comes later, after pregnancy confirmation.
I could get the Maternal Health Handbook after the doctor have already confirmed the heartbeat at a fertility clinic.
Costs of Pregnancy Checkups in Japan
Costs are one of the biggest concerns for foreigners, especially early in pregnancy.
How Much Do Pregnancy Checkups Cost?
Early pregnancy checkups are usually out-of-pocket and can feel expensive at first. Once you receive government subsidies, the financial burden becomes much lighter.
Typical costs vary, but many routine checkups are partially or fully covered by subsidies later on.
Pregnancy Subsidy Coupons & the Maternal Health Handbook
After your pregnancy is officially confirmed, you’ll receive the Maternal and Child Health Handbook (Boshi Techo) from your local city office.
This handbook includes:
- Pregnancy subsidy coupons
- Health records for both mother and baby
- Information about pregnancy, birth, and childcare
I didn’t pay for checkups usually. Only when the Doctor perscribed some meds.
Language Barrier: Are Pregnancy Checkups Foreign-Friendly?
Language can be a major source of stress during pregnancy in Japan.
Do Doctors Speak English in Japan?
Some clinics offer English support, especially in large cities like Tokyo, but many do not. Even “English-speaking” clinics may have limited explanations, especially for detailed medical discussions.
I found a clinic that the doctor speaks English so that my husband can understand.
Tips If You Don’t Speak Japanese
If you’re not fluent in Japanese, these tips can help:
- Use translation apps or write questions in advance
- Bring your partner or a friend if possible *Ask clinics if they allow you to bring someone
- Don’t hesitate to ask doctors to repeat or simplify explanations
Even as a Japanese person, I noticed how medical explanations can feel overwhelmeed some times. Clear communication takes effort—regardless of language.
Ultrasounds, Tests, and What Surprised Me
Ultrasound Frequency in Japan
One thing many foreigners love: ultrasounds are often done at every visit in Japan. You’ll usually receive printed photos, which many parents treasure.
Seeing my baby so often helped me feel relieved, emotionally connected and reassured throughout pregnancy.
Blood Tests & Optional Screening
Japan offers various blood tests and optional screenings, including NIPT. However, these are often approached conservatively, and availability varies by clinic.
Doctors typically explain options but avoid pressuring parents into decisions.
Can Foreigners Choose Their Clinic or Hospital?
Yes—but timing is important.
How to Choose an OB-GYN or Hospital
When choosing a clinic or hospital, consider:
- Distance from your home
- Language support
- Delivery style and policies
- How early delivery reservations are required
I did my research while my fertility treatment – it was not easy to do so when I didn’t even know if I could get pregnant. However, I am very glad that I did. So that I didn’t need to rush to find clinics/hospitals.
Also, I want to mention that I went to a clinic for chechups and I gave birth at a hospital. It’s called “Semi-open system” or “Semi-network system”.
Is Pregnancy Care in Japan Safe?
Medical Safety and Monitoring
Japan has a very high standard of maternal care, with close monitoring and well-established systems.
Many parents feel reassured by the thoroughness of prenatal checkups.
Differences from Other Countries
Compared to countries like the U.S. or parts of Europe, Japan tends to be:
- More often
- More cautious
- More structured
- Less flexible, but very consistent
Whether this feels comforting or restrictive depends on personal preference.
My husband (American) was surprised at how strict the weight control is in Japan. But also he was impressed that we had very good experience both at a clinic and a hospital.
My Personal Experience with Pregnancy Checkups in Japan
I didn’t know much about what to expect for pregnancy checkups—but they made me feel supported. For my foreigner husband, there were moments of confusion, cultural differences, and language challenges at some situation, but also many moments of reassurance.
Looking back, I appreciate how carefully everything was monitored and how much support was available once I understood the system.
Pregnancy Checkups and Giving Birth in Japan
Pregnancy checkups are only the beginning of the journey.
If you’d like to learn more about what happens next, including hospital stays, delivery styles, and postpartum care, you can read my detailed experience here:
👉 Giving Birth in Japan: My Experience & What to Expect
Final Thoughts: Should Foreigners Feel Anxious About Pregnancy Checkups in Japan?
Pregnancy checkups in Japan may feel unfamiliar at first—but they are designed to be thorough and safe.
With a little preparation and understanding, many foreigners find Japan’s prenatal care surprisingly reassuring.
If you’re pregnant in Japan, you’re not alone—and with the right information, you can navigate the system with confidence.
