Maternity care in Chennai
Chennai has some of India’s oldest dedicated maternity hospitals and a strong public health system, alongside a large number of private hospitals and fertility centres across the city and its southern and western suburbs.
Local tips for expectant parents
- Tamil Nadu has a well-developed public maternal health system – government hospitals are a genuine option for many families.
- During the north-east monsoon and cyclone alerts (roughly October to December), keep your hospital bag ready early and know an alternative route.
- Ask about the Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy Maternity Benefit Scheme if you are eligible.
Government maternity hospitals in Chennai
Public hospitals offer free or low-cost antenatal care and delivery under national schemes such as JSSK and PMSMA. Well-known public hospitals with obstetric services include:
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology & Govt. Hospital for Women and ChildrenEgmore
- Kasturba Gandhi Hospital for Women and ChildrenTriplicane
- Government RSRM Lying-in HospitalRoyapuram
Listed for information only; this is not a paid listing or an endorsement. Services and departments change – please confirm directly with the hospital. Read about government schemes for pregnant women.
Choosing where to have your baby
Your doctor and your hospital usually go together, so think about both at once. Consider the level of newborn care on site (especially for twins or a high-risk pregnancy), travel time at any hour, costs and insurance, and how comfortable you feel asking questions. Our 25 questions for your first visit can help.
In an emergency, don’t search – call. Dial 108 for an ambulance (or 112, the national emergency number), or go straight to the nearest hospital with a labour room. Always confirm details directly with a provider before visiting.