Recuperating from birth at a confinement centre sounds amazing if one can afford it.
In Singapore, a typical 28-day package could cost upwards of S$15,888 (US$12,490). Across the Causeway, similar packages range from RM18,888 (US$4,791) to RM40,000, based on media reports.
By comparison, a live-in confinement nanny in Singapore costs at least S$3,000 a month, but families will need to cater for the nanny’s residential needs. This is probably the practical reason why some opt for confinement centres – a lack of physical space or appropriate environment to house a confinement nanny for a month. With more affordable options available across the Causeway, it is not hard to see why some families choose to stretch their dollar.
WHY I OPTED FOR THE SAME NANNY TWICE
Being in the comfort and familiarity of my own home after a stressful birth was important to me, and this turned out to also be the best arrangement for my high-needs babies. So, while I scroll through the Instagram photos of well-rested mothers in confinement centres with envy, I was glad that I employed the help of a live-in nanny whose goal was to set me up for success after she left.