Doula

A doula is a person who provides non-medical support to expectant parents during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. In the Netherlands, most women give birth without a doula, but we’d like to explain what her role can be and when her presence might be valuable.

Why consider a doula?

In the Netherlands, most women give birth without a doula. A doula is trained to provide mental and practical support. She can give advice on how to cope with contractions, offer comfort through massage, or provide practical help by handing you cool washcloths, drinks, or snacks. A doula is not medically trained; she does not perform medical checks and has no medical responsibility. She supports you through her knowledge and experience. She is a professional who stays by your side throughout the entire birth — even if your care is transferred to a gynaecologist. Together with your doula, you decide what her exact role will be.

A doula can be especially helpful in situations such as:

• When you would like someone to be present from an early stage of labour and remain with you the entire time — even if your care is transferred to the hospital or gynaecologist. A familiar face who stays by your side continuously.
• When you are pregnant without a partner or are unsure if your partner can be present during birth.
• When you have a medical indication but still want a trusted, continuous presence during labour.

How does it work?

Every doula has her own unique approach, but it usually starts with an introductory meeting. If there’s a good connection and you agree to the cost, you can decide to work together. After that, you’ll have several sessions in which you receive detailed information about birth and prepare your birth wishes together. During pregnancy, doulas are often available by email, phone, or WhatsApp for non-medical questions.

During labour, your doula can be present from an early stage — if that feels right for you. From that moment on, she stays until your baby is born. She supports you, encourages you, and helps you stay confident and calm.

In the first week after birth, your doula is usually still available for questions and will often visit once to talk through your birth experience.

Collaboration with us

We regularly work together with doulas and know many who practise in Amsterdam. We remain medically responsible for all aspects of your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care — and of course, we support you during all these stages. A doula is therefore a valuable addition, not a replacement for your midwife.

How to choose a doula

On our website you’ll find a list of doulas we often collaborate with. You can also visit doula.nl for more information.

Our advice is to check whether your doula is a member of the Dutch Association of Doulas (NBvD). Membership ensures she has completed an accredited training, adheres to a professional code of conduct, and follows continuing education. The NBvD also mediates in case of complaints.

Costs

The cost of hiring a doula ranges between €1,000 and €3,500. These costs are not covered by the basic health insurance. Some supplementary insurance plans may reimburse part of the fee.