What a midwife does

As midwives, we guide you through pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. But what does that really mean? What do we do, and when can you count on us? In this article, we explain what to expect from us during each phase.

During pregnancy: we are your first point of contact

From the moment you find out you’re pregnant, you can come to us. Throughout your pregnancy, we are your first point of contact for all questions and concerns. Here’s what you can expect from us:

• Regular check-ups: You’ll have around 12 appointments at our practice. We closely monitor your health and your baby’s growth.
• Medical checks: We measure your blood pressure, perform blood tests if needed, make ultrasounds, and check your baby’s development.
• Information and advice: We support you in making choices about testing, nutrition, exercise, and preparing for birth.
• Preparation for childbirth: Together we discuss your wishes and make sure you’re well informed.
• Always available: For urgent questions, we are available 24/7.
• Referral if complications arise: Sometimes additional medical care is needed. In that case, we refer you to a gynecologist and ensure a smooth handover.

During childbirth: we are there to guide you

Whether you give birth at home or in the hospital, we guide you through your delivery. We’re there to support you, provide advice, and carry out medical checks. Here’s what you can expect:

• We are your point of contact
• Home birth: If you choose to give birth at home, we will guide the birth together with a maternity nurse.
• Hospital birth: If you prefer an outpatient hospital birth (without a medical indication), we will accompany you there along with a nurse.
• Medical checks: We monitor your labour progress by, for example, listening to your baby’s heartbeat and, if necessary, performing an internal examination.
• Advice and support: We explain clearly what is happening and what your options are.
• Transfer in case of complications: If additional care is needed, we transfer your care to a gynecologist.
  (Read more about the 10 reasons for referral to secondary care during pregnancy.)

During the postpartum period: care for you and your baby

Even after birth, we remain closely involved. The postpartum period lasts eight days, during which we are your main point of contact. Here’s what you can expect:

• Collaboration with maternity care: The maternity nurse consults with us when needed, and we help with medical or practical questions.
• Health of mother and baby: We check how you and your baby are doing and ensure you’re recovering well.
• Questions and advice: Whether it’s about stitches, feeding, crying, or baby blues – we’re here to guide you.
• Follow-up visits: We visit you 2–3 times (at home and/or by phone), depending on your needs.
• Always available: For urgent questions, we are available 24/7.
• Final check-up: Around six weeks after birth, you’ll visit us again at the practice. We’ll discuss your recovery and look back on your pregnancy and birth together.

Do you have questions or want to learn more about a specific phase?
Talk to us during your next appointment! 💛

Video about Having a baby in the Netherlands and organisations that can help.