Episode 5: Insights from a Midwife, Part 2
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, Geertje walks us through birth in the Netherlands, especially for expats. From home birth options to hospital transfers and the role of mindset, this episode covers it all.
Home vs. Hospital Birth in the Netherlands
Starting at home: Low-risk pregnancies are usually guided by a midwife.
Hospital transfer: If medical indications arise, care is transferred to a gynecologist.
How it works:
Midwife stays with the mother from home to hospital.
Partner often drives, midwife follows or assists.
Depending on risk, hospital nurses may assist, but the midwife remains present until delivery.
“I really believe you can give birth best where you feel safe and comfortable.” – Geertje
Mindset Matters
Expats often feel safer in hospitals, but Geertje emphasizes:
Trust your body: Education and preparation build confidence.
Experience changes everything: First births may feel intimidating; subsequent births often feel empowering.
Safety is subjective: Feeling safe doesn’t always mean being near medical equipment—it’s about your mindset.
“Sometimes the gynecologist is sleeping at night and has to rush in—so mindset is key.”
Pain, Interventions, and Empowerment
Pain has a purpose: It signals your body’s progress and aids bonding.
Epidurals are available but come with risks: infection, fever, reduced mobility.
Embracing pain can actually help manage it:
“You can handle so much more than you think. Embrace the pain—it’s normal labor pain, not a sign something is wrong.”
Modern generations expect pain relief more than previous ones; cultural expectations shape birth experiences.
Supporting Your Body & Environment
Visualization helps: Treat the uterus as a muscle, imagine the baby passing the birth canal.
Hormones matter: Low adrenaline allows oxytocin and endorphins to do their work.
Environment matters: Calm, quiet, supportive surroundings improve the birth experience.
Memorable Birth Experiences
Geertje shares highlights from her practice:
Rapid homebirths where babies arrive in seconds.
Unique situations like babies born after a midwife suggested moving to the birth chair.
Emotional experiences supporting families through miscarriage.
“Every new life is amazing. Even in loss, being there for parents is crucial.”
Working with Doulas
Doulas provide continuous support when midwives are busy.
Offer emotional support, practical help, and a calming presence.
“It’s important to have someone truly supporting you, whether it’s a friend, doula, or partner.”
Advice for Expat Parents
Trust your body: Women are capable of giving birth naturally, but personal preferences and comfort matter.
Educate yourself: Know what options exist in the Netherlands and why certain procedures may or may not be recommended.
Support postpartum: Discuss roles, boundaries, and daily support with partners.
Preconception and Child-Wish Guidance
Geertje also advises on preparing for pregnancy:
Blood tests, diet adjustments, folic acid, and vitamin D.
Address family health history and risks.
Guidance for contraception and family planning is also offered.
“You can solve many problems before pregnancy with the right preparation.”
Key Takeaways
Birth can happen at home or hospital; safety is subjective and based on mindset.
Trusting your body is essential—experience and preparation build confidence.
Pain is normal and manageable; epidurals are optional but have risks.
Support—partners, doulas, midwives—is crucial for both birth and postpartum.
Preconception planning can prevent complications and empower parents.
Support for Your Pregnancy Journey
If you’re preparing for birth in the Netherlands:
What Was Your Biggest Takeaway?
Every birth story is different.
Did this change how you think about birth?
Are you preparing your partner differently after hearing this?
Send a message or share this episode with your partner—this is one worth listening to together.
