Episode 2: Giving Birth in the Netherlands
An Introduction to the Dutch Maternity System
Pregnancy in a new country can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re navigating a healthcare system you don’t fully know.
In this episode of Pregnant in the Netherlands, we kick off the series by exploring how the Dutch healthcare system supports expecting parents—particularly the role of midwives. From first appointments to personalized care, this episode is full of practical guidance, empowering insights, and a powerful reminder: 👉 You can make confident, informed decisions about your pregnancy—even in a new country.
Understanding the Role of Midwives in the Netherlands
Anna shares her experience as an expat navigating Dutch maternity care for the first time, while Julianna, who has given birth twice in the Netherlands and works as a birth professional, explains:
Midwives (Verloskundigen) are the primary caregivers for low-risk pregnancies.
They provide consultations, examinations, and continuous support during labor—at home, in a birth center, or in the hospital.
Midwives ensure both the birthing parent and baby are safe while facilitating as natural and intervention-free a birth as possible.
👉 “The birthing parent does the birthing work—the midwife’s role is support, guidance, and ensuring safety.”
Types of Midwives and Personalized Care
Julianna breaks down the different options:
First-line midwives – handle uncomplicated pregnancies and births; provide care at home, birth centers, or hospitals.
Caseload / Holistic midwives – smaller patient load, more personalized care, integrate natural therapies, and focus on emotional, physical, and spiritual health.
Second-line midwives – hospital-based, managing higher-risk pregnancies requiring medical interventions; closely collaborate with gynecologists.
👉 “Case-load midwives offer longer consultations and more individualized attention, sometimes for an extra cost, but it can be worth it for personalized care.”
Empowering Parents Through Choice
One of the strongest messages from this episode:
👉 You are in charge of your pregnancy journey.
Midwives provide guidance and suggestions, but you make the decisions.
The system encourages collaboration, not compliance—so you can feel confident in your choices.
Transfers between first-line and second-line care happen seamlessly if complications arise.
What Makes Dutch Midwives Unique
Focus on natural, intervention-free births
Equipped with life-saving tools: oxygen, newborn resuscitation, medications, and instruments if necessary
Provide guidance on labor positions, comfort, and emotional support
Ensure smooth transitions if a hospital transfer is needed
👉 “You are a competent participant in your own care—they suggest, you decide.”
Key Takeaways from This Episode
Dutch midwives are central to low-risk pregnancy care
You can choose the midwife and care model that suits your needs
Personalized care options, like caseload or holistic midwives, offer more support and continuity
Collaboration with your healthcare team empowers confident decision-making
Knowing your options can reduce stress and build trust in your own body and abilities
Support for Your Pregnancy Journey in the Netherlands
Preparing for birth in a new country is easier with the right guidance:
What’s Next?
This is just the start. Future episodes will include:
Powerful expat birth stories
Navigating Dutch maternity care in practical terms
Guidance for partners and families
👉 How do you feel about choosing a midwife in a new country? Did this episode make you more confident about your pregnancy options? Send us a message or share this episode with your partner—this one is foundational for anyone expecting in the Netherlands.
