How Does Giving Birth in The Netherlands Work?
The Netherlands is known for its unique and natural approach to childbirth, which might differ significantly from what you’re used to in other countries. Whether you’re an expat living here or simply curious about how the Dutch system works, understanding the options and care available to you is key to feeling confident and prepared for your big day.
The Dutch maternity care system emphasizes minimal intervention and a natural approach to birth. Home births are common and respected, but hospital births are equally well-supported for those who prefer or need medical assistance. The goal is to ensure a safe and personalized experience tailored to your preferences and health needs.
Midwife-Led Care
In the Netherlands, midwives play a central role in maternity care. If your pregnancy is classified as "low-risk," a midwife (verloskundige) will guide you throughout your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum period. You’ll typically visit a midwifery practice for regular checkups, where they’ll monitor your health and the baby’s development.
If complications arise, your care may be transferred to an obstetrician (gynaecoloog) in a hospital.
Birth Options
You’ll have several options for where to give birth:
Home Birth (Thuisbevalling): The Netherlands has one of the highest rates of home births in the Western world. Supported by midwives and often a kraamzorg (postpartum care assistant), this option is chosen for its comfort and familiarity.
Hospital Birth (Ziekenhuisbevalling): Many women prefer or need to give birth in a hospital, particularly if medical interventions might be required. In the Netherlands we have an midwife-led birth or an obstetrician-led birth in this setting.
Birthing Centers (Geboortecentra): These centers, often attached to hospitals, offer a cozy, home-like environment with quick access to medical support if needed.
Pain Management
Pain relief options during labor may differ from what you’re familiar with:
Natural Methods: Midwives often encourage non-medical methods like breathing techniques, birthing pools, different positions or massages.
Epidurals: Epidurals are available in the Netherlands but are less commonly used compared to some other countries. If you think you might want one, it’s important to research this option. Understanding how and where epidurals are administered —typically in a hospital by an anaesthesiologist— can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your birth preferences.
Other Medical Options: Alternatives like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or morphine injections may be offered, depending on the setting and hospital.
Kraamzorg: Postpartum Care
One of the most unique aspects of the Dutch maternity system is kraamzorg, or postpartum care. A kraamzorg professional visits your home daily for the first week after birth to help with tasks like:
Baby care (bathing, feeding guidance)
Postpartum recovery support for the mother
Household assistance
This service is partially covered by health insurance, making it an invaluable part of the postpartum experience.
Labor at Home: If you go into labor at home, your midwife will usually come to check how far along you are before deciding if it’s time to go to the hospital (if that’s your chosen place of birth) or prepare for a home birth.
The Delivery: Dutch midwives are highly skilled at managing natural births. They’ll support you through the process, only involving a doctor if complications arise.
Post-Birth Care: Immediate skin-to-skin contact is common, and you’ll have time to bond with your baby before further medical checks are performed.
This blog offers a simplified overview of giving birth in the Netherlands, covering the key aspects of the Dutch maternity care system. However, there’s so much more to learn! In my course, we dive deeper into every detail—from understanding your pain relief options to navigating the healthcare system and creating a personalized birth plan.
One of the most important aspects of childbirth in the Netherlands is that your choices and informed consent are highly valued. You have the right to make decisions about your body and your birth experience. Whether it’s deciding where to give birth or understanding the options for medical interventions, your voice matters. My goal is to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions that align with your preferences.
If you’re ready to explore these topics further and gain a complete understanding of childbirth in the Netherlands, I invite you to join the course. I’m here to guide you every step of the way!
