Midwife

In the Netherlands the midwife, or verloskundige, guides you through your pregnancy and birth. As soon as you discover that you are pregnant you should make an appointment with a midwife, generally for about the 8th and 12th week of your pregnancy. You do not need a referral letter from your doctor.

What does the midwife do?

She checks on your state of health and that of the baby. Over the course of your pregnancy you will visit your midwife more frequently, at the end of your pregnancy on a weekly basis. Your midwife will provide information on giving birth at home or in hospital and will give you advice on a healthy pregnancy.

Relatively speaking, a large number of women choose in favour of a home birth in the Netherlands and this is encouraged. If your child is born at home the midwife is there to support you during the birth. The circumstances at home are usually very good and most women thrive in their own home environment while giving birth.

Making an appointment

You can phone the midwife yourself to make the appointment. You will find midwives listed in the yellow pages under verloskundigepraktijk or you can request a recommendation from your GP or ACCESS on (070) 346 25 25.

Payment

Most insurance policies (verzekering) pay the costs of the midwife, depending on your policy.

The midwife is obliged to a confidentiality agreement.

For more information, visit the website of the Royal Netherlands Organisation of Midwives or Great Expectations.