Episode 4: Insights from a Midwife, Part 1
An interview with Geertje Swinkels
Pregnancy in a new country can feel overwhelming—especially when you don’t know the system, your options, or who to trust. In this episode of Pregnant in the Netherlands, we speak with Geertje Maria Swinkles, a midwife with 21 years of experience and mother of four. She shares what expecting parents—especially expats—need to know about prenatal care, ultrasounds, tests, and finding support in the Netherlands. From group-centered pregnancy programs to navigating optional testing, this episode is full of practical tips, reassuring insights, and real-life stories:
👉 Whether you’re newly pregnant or new to the Netherlands, this episode will help you feel informed and empowered.
“Everything Feels Different in a New Country”
Geertje explains the challenges expat parents face:
Understanding the Dutch healthcare system
Navigating optional tests and check-ups
Adapting to cultural differences in prenatal care
Her approach combines professional expertise with empathy for parents adjusting to a new environment:
“Your baby comes when they’re ready, not according to a calendar. Trust your body and the process.”
Early Pregnancy: Who to Contact and First Steps
Once you have a positive pregnancy test:
Contact your midwife directly
Speak with an assistant (like Nikki in Geertje’s practice)
Schedule your first appointment around 7–8 weeks
Early ultrasound checks for heartbeat, correct location, and gestational age
Geertje emphasizes:
“Even small early steps give you confidence and clarity for the nine months ahead.”
Prenatal Testing in the Netherlands
Geertje walks us through the most common tests and ultrasounds:
8–10 weeks: First ultrasound (vaginal)
Purpose: Check pregnancy location and heartbeat
Optional? No
11 weeks: Blood tests
Purpose: Chromosome screening, blood type, iron, vitamins
Optional? Yes
13 weeks: Early anomaly scan
Purpose: Check organ development
Optional? Yes
19 weeks: Second anomaly scan
Purpose: Assess heart, lungs, kidneys, limbs
Optional? Yes
20 weeks: Blood tests
Purpose: Check iron levels
Optional? Yes
27 weeks: Blood tests
Purpose: Glucose and iron monitoring
Optional? Yes
34 weeks: Ultrasound
Purpose: Check baby’s position and growth
Optional? Yes
Key points:
Testing in the Netherlands is optional, based on risk factors
Over-testing can increase stress and unnecessary worry
Parents are empowered to choose what feels right
Centering Pregnancy: Building Support in a New Country
Geertje highlights her unique group program for expats:
Monthly English-speaking groups of 10–12 expecting parents
Nine sessions covering: healthy lifestyle, diabetes prevention, breastfeeding, and fatherhood coaching
Peer support and real-life help: meal prep, breast milk donation, emotional support
Builds community in a country where family may be far away
“It takes a village to raise a child. If your village isn’t here, the group can become your support system.”
Routine Midwife Visits: What to Expect
During check-ups, parents are empowered to monitor their own health:
Blood pressure, weight, and uterine growth
Fetal heartbeat monitoring
Personalized guidance and answers to questions
Encourages self-trust and active involvement
“We put parents in control of their health—so they can make informed decisions confidently.”
Key Takeaways for Expats
Dutch prenatal care is optional, flexible, and empowers parents
Trust your body, the process, and your baby’s timing
Group-centered pregnancy programs create community and support
Routine check-ups focus on guidance and education, not unnecessary stress
Clear communication with your midwife and care team is essential
Support for Your Pregnancy Journey in the Netherlands
If you’re preparing for a baby in the Netherlands:
Join English-language Centering Pregnancy groups
Learn about optional tests, ultrasounds, and what they mean for you
Build your support network early
What Did You Learn From This Episode?
Every pregnancy is unique. 👉 How will this episode change how you navigate prenatal care? Share your thoughts or send this episode to your partner—it’s full of insights every expat parent needs to hear.
