Midwives and hospitals in the Netherlands are used to birth plans (geboorteplan) and generally appreciate them. A plan is less helpful when it's long, rigid, or based on how births work in another country. Here's how to make yours work.
Keep it short and clear
- One page at most, with headings and short sentences.
- English is fine. A short Dutch summary can help, especially at night.
- Discuss it with your midwife before about 36 weeks, and bring copies to the hospital.
What to include
- Who you'd like with you, such as your partner and your doula.
- Pain relief: what you want, and when. If you want an epidural, say so clearly. Read more in pain relief during birth in the Netherlands.
- Atmosphere: light, music, moving freely, using water.
- Pushing and positions: any preferences you have.
- Right after birth: skin-to-skin contact, waiting with cutting the cord, who cuts it, how you want to feed your baby.
- If things don't go as planned: your wishes for a caesarean, such as your partner being present and skin-to-skin contact as soon as possible.
Write wishes, not demands
Birth is unpredictable. Phrases like "I would like" and "if possible" work better than strict rules. A plan that shows you've thought about alternatives is taken more seriously, and it protects you from feeling that things went wrong when the birth takes a different turn.
The Dutch context
- Your care may move from your midwife to the hospital team during labour. Make sure your plan works for both. Read more in how the Dutch midwife system works.
- Staff change shifts. A clear plan helps someone new understand you quickly.
- Things that are routine in your home country may not be routine here, and the other way round. Ask your midwife what's standard.
How a doula helps
Together we go through your options, I make sure your plan fits Dutch practice, and during labour I help make sure your wishes are heard. My Dutch geboorteplan checklist is a useful starting point too.
Frequently asked questions
Does my hospital have its own template?
Some hospitals and midwifery practices offer one. Ask them; using their format can make it easier for staff to read.
Should I write it in Dutch?
Not necessarily. Most staff read English easily. A few key points in Dutch at the top can still help.
Curious whether a doula would work for you? Have a look at my doula services or book a free introductory call.