Pregnancy

Knowing what to do when you want to start a family or discovering you are pregnant can seem daunting, especially when you are in a different country, away from family and friends. We have gathered the information you'll need to help you understand the system and know what to expect when you are expecting in Israel - please get in touch with us to receive a written guide. Our door is always open for friendly advice and support.

IMPORTANT links

Ministry of Health
Kaplan Medical Center
Being Pregnant Overseas

Contact

io@weizmann.ac.il

Health Insurance

Contact the International Office to obtain a guide for being pregnant in Israel and we will send you insurance-appropriate information, whether you are insured with Harel or through Bituach Leumi.

If you are insured with Harel, make sure to notify them of the pregnancy as soon as possible - they will be able to assist you in making the appointments that you will need.

Contact: Einat Cohen. 054-5297775. einat@yedidim.co.il

Clalit Ob-Gyn’s

Private Ob-Gyn’s

You may decide to have a private consultation and you can contact the following:

Combining Academic Career with Pregnancy and Motherhood

How will my PI and peers react? How should I let them know? How will this affect my academic career? See the articles below, written by female scientists at Weizmann.

Nannies, Kindergarten and more

Once you are home with your newborn, you may be ready to look for some childcare. Private daycare and nannies can be found for babies up to age 3. Contact us for an up-to-date list of options, and you can read more at K-12 Education.

Counselling Services & Support

A free-of-charge counseling service on campus enables you to discuss and think through any personal difficulties with a trained professional. All appointments are completely confidential. 

  • Nirit Cohen-Strauss

    Social Worker

    Contact

    08-952-9219

    Location

    Email

  • Stavit Chochva

    Head, Social Work section

    Contact

    08-934-4507

    Location

    Email

Fertility Treatments

Some people get pregnant quickly, but for others it can take longer. We want you to know that  we’re here to help.  Israel is a world leader in fertility treatments. Information can be found here and we encourage you to contact us for help locating specialist doctors and other practical assistance.

Note that fertility and IVF treatments are not covered by Harel Yedidim health insurance. If you are insured with Bituach Leumi, there is coverage.

Support through other challenges

In some cases pregnancy is unwanted or shadowed by unwelcome circumstances such as  abortion, baby loss, or postpartum depression. The Institute offers free of charge discreet counselling on campus. Below you will find some related links.

More Information you may need

Life in Israel

History buffs can experience the Old City of Jerusalem, Crusader fortresses, Roman amphitheatres and aqueducts, and Nabatean trade routes. Nature lovers have access to exploring a wealth of ecosystems. Sports aficionados can hike, swim, surf or bike all over.

Read more about Life in Israel

Family Life

If you are arriving with children, you will want to know what educational opportunities are available for them in Rehovot. Children normally attend the kindergarten or elementary school in their neighborhoods, while older children may travel by bus to their middle or high schools.

Read more about Family Life