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What is unique about giving birth in the Dutch healthcare system?

I thought you'd never ask...

Tulips, windmills, wooden clogs, stroopwafels, the CUTEST canal houses... those may be the first things that come to mind when you think of The Netherlands, but did you know it's widely respected as one of the best systems in the world to give birth in? 

Vast choices aren't just limited to tulips here.

First and foremost, the Dutch healthcare system is good to mothers. You will find you are supported in many ways at a level you may not experience in other countries. There are incredible resources here, including health professionals that are easily accessible, completely covered by insurance and can help you every step of the way during your journey from conception to parenthood.

We believe in making pregnancy education approachable, affordable & jam-packed full of accurate information. We want to present you with all your options without bias, so you are empowered to make the best decisions for your birth & growing family.

 
 

the birth plan kit

Expecting in The Netherlands?

Then our Birth Plan Kit is for you.

Navigating an unfamilar healthcare system can be challenging. You have lots of choices and we’re here to provide you with information about all your options. This kit is a powerful tool that clearly and directly communicates your preferences during labor and birth.

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 10 Unique Aspects of the Dutch Healthcare System for Birth:

The Dutch healthcare system is full of unique aspects, but these ten points collectively differentiate it from anywhere else in the world. Read below to find out why The Netherlands is highly regarded by experts as one of the best places in the world to give birth.

 
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The Power of Choice

This may sound super simple, but the power that comes with freedom of choice is monumental during pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum. It’s your birth and these are your choices.

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The Healthcare System is Affordable

No need for a lengthy explanation here. Some healthcare systems around the world can make you go broke, this one doesn’t. In fact, it’s more than fair, it’s generous.

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Informed Consent is the Law

Besides having a wide array of birth options you also live in a country where birth rights are upheld. Not only do healthcare professionals need your consent, they need to make sure you are informed before obtaining consent. Not willing to give consent for something? Your providers still have an obligation to care for you.

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Birth Plans Are The Norm

There is even a midwife appointment here dedicated to discussing your birth plan. They aren’t required, and don’t need to be long, but it stands out if you don’t have one. So, you never have to worry about weird looks or rolling eyes when you present your birth plan and preferences to any healthcare provider.

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You Can Have a Home Birth if You Want To

This is a biggie. It doesn’t have to be your thing, but having the option says A LOT about the system. Combine professionals that are trained in what natural birth looks like, with a well thought out system of checks and balances and it makes home birth a safe option in this country.

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Freedom From Time Limits During Your Labor

Ask any midwife, doula or birth educator and they will tell you how important it is to not have time limits during the natural physiology of birth. You won’t experience pressure from providers hurrying you along. Instead, you’ll be given ample time to let your body do what it was made to do.

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There is a Strong Emphasis on the Golden Hour

Bonding with your babe is super important and it’s the top priority for you and baby to spend quality time together the hour after birth. Having a c-section? Your partner will step in until you can join in on Golden Hour bliss.

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Kraamzorg care is the… Best. Benefit. Ever.

If you know, you know. Kraamzorg care is unique to The Netherlands and helps both baby and parents have a solid, educated and supported start to their new life together. It’s like having a real-life Mary Poppins show up post birth, AKA riiight on time.

Maternity & Paternity Leave Are a Thing

Can we get a collective, “wooo, hooo!” on this one? Maternity and paternity leave are often considered perks, but shouldn’t every new parent everywhere be given time to adjust to life with their little one? We can all unanimously agree on this one.

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You Have Breastfeeding Rights when you return to work

Yep, you read that right. Once your maternity period is over your employer is not only required to provide space for you to breastfeed (or pump!), but they also have to allow 25% of your work time to be spent feeding/pumping (while still being paid!).

Get instant access to the information you need about pregnancy

Home birth, birth center birth, hospital birth, water birth, water birth in your home birth... there are numerous choices and possibilities available to you here. From induction methods to pain relief options we have you covered with all the information and details you need to make the best informed decisions for you and your baby.

 
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PLANNING FOR BABY’S OPTIONS FOR LEARNING ABOUT PREGNANCY, labor, birth & beyond:

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