Maybe you moved to The Hague for your partner's job at an embassy, an international organisation or a company in the city. Maybe you came for your own career. Either way, you're now pregnant in a country where birth works quite differently from what you know, and your mother, sister or best friend is a flight away. That's exactly the situation in which a doula makes the biggest difference.
Why the Dutch system can feel unfamiliar
Most expats find that pregnancy care in the Netherlands is good, but organised in a way they didn't expect. A few things come up again and again:
- A midwife, not a gynaecologist. If your pregnancy is low risk, your care is led by a midwife (verloskundige). You'll only see a gynaecologist if there's a medical reason. Read more in how the Dutch midwife system works.
- Pain relief isn't automatic. Many Dutch women give birth without medication, and the system is built around that. An epidural is possible, but it usually has to happen in hospital and availability can depend on the hospital and the time of day. Knowing your options in advance makes a real difference. Read more in pain relief during birth in the Netherlands.
- Home birth is a normal option. The Netherlands is one of the few countries where giving birth at home is a regular, well-supported choice. You decide where you want to give birth, and you can change your mind along the way. Read more in home birth or hospital birth.
- Kraamzorg after the birth. In the first week, a maternity nurse (kraamverzorgende) comes to your home to look after you and your baby. It's a wonderful service, but you need to book it early in your pregnancy through your health insurer or a kraamzorg agency. Read more in kraamzorg explained.
- A lot of it happens in Dutch. Most midwives and hospital staff speak excellent English, but leaflets, forms and phone calls are often in Dutch. When you're tired or in labour, that adds up.
What a doula does for you as an expat
A doula is a professional, non-medical companion during your pregnancy, your birth and the weeks after. I don't replace your midwife or your doctor. I make sure you understand what they're offering, help you make your own choices, and stay with you, continuously, while you give birth. You can read more in wat is een doula en wanneer schakel je er een in (in Dutch).
For expat women, a few things tend to matter most:
- Someone who explains the system. We go through how Dutch maternity care works, what to ask your midwife, and what happens when you go to hospital.
- A birth plan that fits Dutch practice. We write down your wishes, including on pain relief, in a way that the people caring for you will recognise and take seriously. Read more in writing a birth plan that works in a Dutch hospital.
- A familiar face in the room. Shifts change and midwives hand over. I stay. For many women far from home, that continuity is what makes them feel safe.
- Support for your partner. Your partner is often just as new to all of this. I help them know what to do, so they can be there for you instead of worrying.
- The first weeks at home. Without family nearby, the postpartum period can feel lonely. We look ahead together at what you'll need and who can help.
What it looks like in practice
Preparation usually consists of two to three conversations, in your home in The Hague or nearby, in which we talk through your wishes, worries and expectations. As your due date approaches, we fine-tune the practical side of the birth, whether you're planning to give birth at home or in hospital. From week 37 onwards I'm available 24/7, and I come to you when labour starts.
Many of my clients combine a pregnancy with a demanding job. If you're also wondering how to handle maternity leave and your return to work in a Dutch workplace, that's something we can talk about too. Read more in going back to work after maternity leave as an expat mom.
Frequently asked questions
Do you work in English?
Yes. All conversations, the birth plan and the support during the birth can be in English. I can also help with the Dutch you'll come across: forms, phone calls and what's being said in the room.
Do you work with my midwife or hospital?
I don't work with one fixed practice or hospital. I join the care you've already chosen, whether that's HMC, HagaZiekenhuis or a midwifery practice in your neighbourhood. A doula adds to your care team, she doesn't replace anyone in it.
Which area do you cover?
My practice is in The Hague and I work within a radius of 60 kilometres. That includes Wassenaar, Rijswijk, Delft, Leiden and Rotterdam.
When should I get in touch?
The earlier, the more time we have to prepare, but it's never too late. Even in the last weeks of your pregnancy a doula can help. Read more in last minute een doula inschakelen (in Dutch).
Curious whether this would work for you? Have a look at my doula services or book a free introductory call.