Episode 4: Insights from a Midwife, Part 1
An interview with Geertje Swinkels
Summary
IIn this conversation, midwife Gertje Maria Swinkels shares her insights on pregnancy and childbirth in the Netherlands, particularly for expats. She discusses the cultural differences in approaches to pregnancy, the importance of community support through Centering Pregnancy groups, and the various tests and procedures that expectant mothers can expect. Gertje emphasizes the empowerment of women in their pregnancy journey and the significance of trusting the natural process of childbirth.
Keywords
midwifery, pregnancy, Netherlands, expats, healthcare, centering pregnancy, ultrasound, maternal care, cultural differences, childbirth
Resources Mentioned in Today’s Episode
https://centeringzorg.nl/centeringpregnancy/
Episode’s main topics
00:00 – Introduction to Midwifery and Personal Journey
Gertje's journey to midwifery was influenced by a desire to support new life.
03:38 – Cultural Perspectives on Childbirth
Cultural differences significantly impact perceptions of pregnancy and childbirth.
The importance of understanding different cultural backgrounds in healthcare.
06:23 – The Evolution of Midwifery Practice
Midwives in the Netherlands empower women to take charge of their health.
The Netherlands offers a supportive healthcare system for pregnant women.
09:22 – Supporting International Clients
Centering pregnancy groups provide essential community support for expats.
Group meetings foster a sense of belonging and shared experience.
Open communication between midwives and expectant mothers enhances care.
12:29 – Navigating Pregnancy Tests and Procedures
Not all tests during pregnancy are mandatory; options are available.
15:29 – Routine Midwife Visits and Empowerment
Trusting the body's natural processes is crucial during pregnancy.
20:47 – Introduction to Pregnancy Mindset & Navigating Birth Choices
Navigating birth choices.
Trusting the body's natural processes is crucial during pregnancy.
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About our Guest
Geertje Swinkels has been a dedicated midwife since 2003, founding Kinderrijk Meerhoven in Eindhoven later that year. Based in Gezondheidscentrum Stroomz Meerhoven as well as Gezondheidscentrum Stroomz Eindhoven, she provides personalized care to expecting families and became a certified ultrasound technician in 2013. As a mother of four, she combines professional expertise with personal experience to support parents through pregnancy and birth with knowledge, empathy, and care.
Website: https://kinderrijkmeerhoven.nl/en/
Instagram: @midwiferypracticeeindhoven
Get in Touch
Expecting Together Pregnancy and Postpartum Meetup You can find us each month at our pregnancy and postpartum meetup where we help you build your community, make friends, and answer all of your pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and postpartum questions! More info at pregnantineindhoven.com
Julianna Feron
Website: juliannaferon.com
Instagram: @julianna_feron
Anna Latham
Website: empoweredbirthservices.nl
Instagram @empowered.birth.services
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555058594931
Schedule a FREE call to see how I can best support you at https://calendly.com/empoweredbirthservices/30min
