Bringing a child into the world is a life-altering experience. It can be even more memorable when you do it in a foreign country like The Netherlands. The Dutch approach to childbirth is distinct and remarkable. Their focus is on a natural and holistic process that puts the well-being of mother and the baby at the forefront.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what it’s like having a baby in The Netherlands. From the unique prenatal care system to the postpartum support and the cultural nuances that make this experience truly special, we will cover it all.
The Dutch Philosophy of Childbirth
The Netherlands is renowned for its unique approach to childbirth, which emphasizes natural, woman-centered care. Childbirth is viewed as a natural process, not a medical event. The Dutch philosophy of childbirth centers around the following key principles.
Dutch women have the option to give birth at home or in a hospital, with the guidance of experienced midwives or obstetricians. This holistic approach to childbirth has garnered attention worldwide for its exceptional outcomes and empowering experiences.
Midwife-Led Care
The majority of Dutch women receive midwife-led care throughout their pregnancies. Midwives are trained professionals who monitor and support the expecting mother. They focus on her physical and emotional well-being. Midwives are skilled in providing personalized, non-invasive care.
Home Births
One of the distinctive features of having a baby in the Netherlands is the option to give birth at home. Home births are common and supported by the healthcare system. Many women choose this option for its relaxed and familiar environment, surrounded by loved ones.
Low Medical Intervention
The Netherlands boasts remarkably low rates of medical interventions during childbirth. The country prioritizes the natural progression of labor and delivery, emphasizing the importance of allowing the body to do what it’s designed for.
Prenatal Care: The Midwifery Model
One of the most striking aspects of having a baby in The Netherlands is the role of midwives. Unlike many countries where obstetricians play a central role in pregnancy and childbirth, the Dutch system primarily revolves around midwives. These healthcare professionals are experts in pregnancy and childbirth. They provide care and support to expectant mothers throughout their pregnancy journey.
Midwives follow a “low-risk” philosophy, meaning that they are the primary caregivers for women with healthy, uncomplicated pregnancies. They offer personalized care, focusing on the physical and emotional well-being of the mother and baby. Regular check-ups, discussions about birth plans, and attentive guidance are part of the midwifery model of care.
In order to find a midwife team, you can check who is available in your postal code area, and then make an appointment. You can always ask for recommendations from the house doctor or mom groups, if unsure. It is usually a team of midwives you will meet throughout your check up appointments and scans. Depending on when you baby is due, the midwife on duty will assist you during birth.
Choosing the Birth Setting
In the Netherlands, expectant mothers have the freedom to choose the setting for their childbirth. Below you find all their options.
Home Birth
Home births are a cherished tradition in the Netherlands. Approximately 30% of Dutch babies being born in the comfort of their own homes. A midwife encourages home births for those with low-risk pregnancies. They will be present to provide support, monitor the labor, and bring all the necessary equipment to ensure a safe delivery. Home births are seen as a way to create a calm, familiar environment, which can enhance the birthing experience.
Hospital Birth
While home births are a common choice, hospitals are also well-equipped to handle childbirth. If a mother prefers the hospital setting or if complications arise during labor, she can easily transfer to the hospital for medical care. Obstetricians and nursing staff are available to provide care and pain relief options like epidurals.
Postpartum Support: A Holistic Approach
The Dutch approach to maternity care extends well into the postpartum period. After giving birth, Dutch women and their newborns are not kept in the hospital for an extended period. They typically return home within a few hours or a day after a straightforward birth. At home, mothers receive care and support from their midwives for up to ten days. This includes guidance on breastfeeding, emotional support, and monitoring the physical recovery of both the mother and baby. This comprehensive approach helps women adjust to motherhood and promotes a smooth transition into their new roles.
Health Insurance in the Netherlands
Health insurance is mandatory in the Netherlands, and this includes coverage for maternity care. Pregnant women do not have to worry about additional costs for midwifery care during pregnancy and childbirth. The comprehensive healthcare system in the Netherlands ensures that all women have access to quality care regardless of their financial situation. Even if you have the lowest health care package available, you are covered for birth expenditures.
Once you know you are pregnant, you can also request a birth package for free from your healthcare provider. It will have things for during and after birth inside, such as pads, after birth underwear, disinfection spray, cotton pads etc.
Why Is the Dutch Approach Unique?
The Dutch approach to childbirth has drawn international attention for several reasons:
High Satisfaction
Dutch women report high levels of satisfaction with their birthing experiences. The focus on personal choice and informed decision-making empowers mothers and contributes to a positive birth experience.
Low Interventions
The Netherlands consistently ranks among countries with the lowest rates of medical interventions during childbirth. This reflects the trust in the body’s ability to give birth naturally.
Safe Outcomes
Despite the emphasis on low-intervention births, the Netherlands maintains excellent maternal and neonatal health outcomes. The Dutch healthcare system is well-prepared to handle any complications that may arise during childbirth.
Personalized Care
The Dutch model prioritizes personalized care. Expecting mothers receive individualized attention and feel involved in decision-making throughout their pregnancies and births.
Summary – Having a baby in the Netherlands
Let’s summarize what we just learned.
Maternity Care System: The Netherlands has a comprehensive maternity care system that covers the entire pregnancy and childbirth process. The system is based on the principle of ‘low-risk’ pregnancies, which means that women with a healthy pregnancy are encouraged to have a natural birth.
Midwives: In the Netherlands, midwives are the primary caregivers for pregnant women and attend the majority of births. They provide care throughout the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum period. Obstetricians are only involved in cases of high-risk pregnancies or complications.
Home Births: Home births are a popular option in the Netherlands. Around 30% of births take place at home, and midwives are well-trained and equipped to handle home births safely.
Hospital Births: Hospitals also provide maternity care services and have facilities for both natural births and cesarean sections. If there are any complications during pregnancy or birth, women are transferred to the hospital for further care.
Postpartum Care: The postpartum period is an essential part of maternity care in the Netherlands. Women receive care from midwives for up to 10 days after giving birth, including assistance with breastfeeding, physical recovery, and emotional support.
Health Insurance: In the Netherlands, everyone is required to have health insurance, including pregnant women. Maternity care is covered by health insurance, and there are no additional costs for midwifery care during pregnancy and childbirth.
Conclusion
A truly unique experience having a baby in the Netherlands offers a unique and empowering experience that embodies trust in the natural process of childbirth. The Dutch approach to childbirth, with its focus on midwifery, home births, postpartum support, and cultural nuances, creates a journey that prioritizes the health and well-being of both mother and baby. It’s a beautiful blend of tradition, modern healthcare, and a supportive community that makes having a baby in the Netherlands a delightful adventure. If you’re considering this journey, you’ll likely find yourself welcomed into a culture that celebrates the miracle of life in a truly exceptional way.
You’ll also find navigating costs of living in The Netherlands and 15 useful apps when moving to The Netherlands useful.
