In many countries an obstetrician or gynaecologist follows your pregnancy from start to finish. In the Netherlands, care is organised in two levels, and for most women it starts with an independent midwife (verloskundige). Once you understand that, a lot of other things suddenly make sense.
Two levels of care
- Primary care (eerstelijnszorg). An independent midwife looks after healthy, low-risk pregnancies. She does your check-ups, attends your birth at home or in hospital, and visits you in the first week after.
- Secondary care (tweedelijnszorg). A gynaecologist and hospital team take over when there's a medical reason: a complication, a previous caesarean, twins, or a wish for pain relief during labour.
You can move between the two. If something comes up during pregnancy or labour, your midwife refers you to the hospital. That handover is a normal part of the system, not a sign that something is seriously wrong.
How to find a midwife
- You don't need a referral from your GP. You register directly with a midwifery practice.
- Do it early, ideally as soon as you know you're pregnant. The first appointment is usually somewhere between week 8 and 10.
- Practices work in teams. You'll probably meet several midwives, and whoever is on call attends your birth.
- Ask whether they're comfortable working in English (most are) and how they handle contact outside office hours.
- Midwifery care is covered by Dutch basic health insurance and doesn't count towards your deductible.
What to expect from your appointments
You'll have regular check-ups, more often towards the end of your pregnancy. Your midwife checks your blood pressure and your baby's growth and heartbeat, and offers screening such as the 20-week scan. Appointments are often short and practical, so it helps to write down your questions beforehand.
Where a doula fits in
Your midwife is responsible for the medical care and the safety of you and your baby. A doula doesn't do any medical tasks. I'm there for you: preparation, information, emotional support and continuous presence during labour.
That difference matters. A midwife often arrives when labour is well under way, and in hospital she may be caring for more than one woman. I stay with you from the moment you need me. For expats, I also help you understand what's being said, which choices you have and which questions to ask. Read more in English-speaking doula in The Hague.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose a gynaecologist instead?
Without a medical reason, your care starts with a midwife. You can choose to give birth in hospital with your own midwife, sometimes with a personal contribution. Read more in home birth or hospital birth in the Netherlands.
What if my own midwife isn't on call when labour starts?
Practices have an on-call rota, so a colleague will come. For many women, that's exactly why they value a doula: one familiar face from start to finish.
Curious whether a doula would work for you? Have a look at my doula services or book a free introductory call.