Episode 6: The Unique Role of the Kraamverzorgster/Maternity Nurse
An interview with Maaike van Kol
Birth and early parenthood can feel overwhelming—especially in a new country with unfamiliar systems. In this episode of Pregnant in the Netherlands, we sit down with Maaike van Kol, a dedicated maternity nurse (kraamverzorgster) with 17 years of experience caring for new families. She shares her insights on supporting parents and babies, both at home and in hospital settings, and explains why postpartum care in the Netherlands is so unique.
“What Is a Kraamverzorgster?”
Maaike explains that the role of a kraamverzorgster is unlike anything in the US or Vietnam. She’s not just there to clean the house—she’s a trained maternity nurse providing hands-on support for:
Mothers: Monitoring recovery, checking vitals, assisting with breastfeeding, and providing guidance for postpartum health.
Babies: Monitoring weight, diaper output, feeding, sleep, and overall wellness.
Families: Offering household support and helping siblings adjust.
“We are like a nurse, not just someone who cleans the house. We care for the baby and mother, and support the whole family.”
This comprehensive support is covered by Dutch health insurance and can be customized to the family’s needs.
Daily Responsibilities of a Maternity Nurse
Maaike walks us through what a typical day looks like:
First Day at Home:
Introductions and orientation to the household.
Teaching parents breastfeeding and bottle feeding techniques.
Preparing the home for the first night with the newborn.
Answering every question—even small ones that parents might forget to ask.
Ongoing Support (Days 2–8):
Daily checks on the mother: temperature, heartbeat, uterus recovery, bleeding, leg health, and breast health.
Daily checks on the baby: weight monitoring, feeding support, diaper tracking, movement, and overall health.
Helping parents navigate sleep schedules, night feeding, and recovery routines.
“The first day is the busiest, but by the end of the week, parents feel ready and confident to care for their baby.”
Postpartum Care for Mothers and Babies
Breastfeeding Support:
Guidance for latching, positioning, and pumping.
Assessing milk supply and offering formula support if needed.
Recognizing that early breastfeeding challenges are normal and temporary.
Emotional Support:
Understanding that tears, stress, and exhaustion are normal postpartum reactions.
Encouraging rest and prioritizing bonding over household tasks.
Monitoring for signs of postpartum depression and advising parents to seek support when necessary.
“Everything is okay. The baby needs love, food, and cuddles—but the mother needs care too.”
Household and Family Support
A kraamverzorgster also helps keep the household running:
Preparing meals, laundry, and tidying up.
Supporting siblings by including them in baby care.
Adjusting to the specific needs and rhythms of each family.
Maaike even shares her favorite family-friendly meal: a warming, nutrient-rich soup that can be enjoyed for several days.
“Soup is the best medicine. It nourishes the mother and is easy for the family.”
Unique Challenges for Expat Families
Expats often face extra hurdles:
Language barriers when understanding healthcare instructions.
Navigating a Dutch maternity system that is very different from other countries.
Accessing consistent postpartum support when family and friends aren’t nearby.
“Don’t wait too long to ask for help—reach out to your midwife or GP. The earlier, the better.”
Maaike emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive care and clear communication to ensure all parents feel supported and confident.
Key Takeaways
The Netherlands’ maternity nurse system is unique and provides comprehensive support for mothers, babies, and families.
Early postpartum care includes health checks, breastfeeding guidance, and household support.
Emotional and practical support is essential—rest, bonding, and parental confidence are as important as feeding and sleep.
Expats may face unique challenges but can thrive with clear guidance and trusted support.
Support for Your Pregnancy and Postpartum Journey
If you’re preparing for birth in the Netherlands or are new parents:
Explore kraamverzorgster/maternity nurse support
Consider postpartum doula care
Access breastfeeding guidance and education
Attend childbirth education classes
“Having the right support can completely change your experience, especially for first-time or expat parents.”
What Was Your Biggest Takeaway?
Every family’s journey is unique.
👉 How does this change how you think about postpartum support?
👉 Are you preparing your partner for the early days with a newborn?
Share this episode or message us—this is one every new parent should hear.
