Congratulations, you're expecting a bundle of joy! Pregnancy is an incredible journey, filled with excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a hint of nervousness. For Indian expats in the Netherlands, this journey becomes even more special as you navigate a foreign land's healthcare system. Fear not, for we are here to hold your hand, offer comforting words, and guide you through each month of your pregnancy, from discovering the good news to embracing your little one with open arms.
This delightful blog is a heartwarming journey that illuminates the unique experiences of Indian expats as they embark on their pregnancy adventure in the Netherlands. Expect to be showered with information, emotions, and a dash of humour as we explore how to confirm your pregnancy, the role of General Practitioners (GPs) and midwives, medical check-ups and scans, choosing between home and hospital births, and the essential steps to take after your baby is born. Let's hold each other close and dive into this adventure, cherishing every moment together!
Week-by-Week Journey of Your Pregnancy
Weeks 1-4 - The Exciting Discovery
As you find out you are pregnant in the Netherlands, a whirlwind of emotions takes over. Excitement bubbles up, while questions and "what ifs" dance in your mind.
Confirm your pregnancy with a visit to your General Practitioner (GP), who will perform a blood test and a urine test. The wait for the results feels like eternity, but once it's confirmed, your heart feels lighter than air.
Your GP, with a kind smile, offers initial advice on prenatal vitamins and lifestyle adjustments. You leave the clinic feeling reassured and eager to embrace this new chapter in your life.
Weeks 5-12 - First Midwife Visit
After confirming your pregnancy, you'll receive a referral to a midwife. A mix of excitement and nerves fills your heart as you wonder what to expect.
Midwife visits usually begin around the 8th to 12th week of pregnancy. The moment you meet your midwife, her warm presence and vast knowledge make you feel at ease.
At any time during pregnancy, it is possible to make extra ultrasounds, pictures, or 3D ultrasound videos at an extra price with most midwives. Please note that this price is not covered by insurance.
Weeks 13-20 - The Midway Mark
Your midwife continues to monitor your pregnancy, guiding you through each milestone with gentle encouragement. Her support becomes an anchor during moments of uncertainty.
You and your partner can choose your Kraamzorg, who can help you after the pregnancy and guide you on how to take care of your baby.(Should be done 4 months before the delivery)
Between 12-20 weeks, there will be a few basic blood tests and possibly the NIPT test to find any possible conditions in the baby. For more information on the NIPT test, you can visit: https://www.pns.nl/nipt/hoe-gaat-de-nipt
During the 20th week, you'll have an exciting scan to check your baby's development and possibly find out the gender. Butterflies flutter in your stomach as you eagerly anticipate the revelation.
Weeks 21-28 - Supportive Care
Your midwife becomes not only a healthcare provider but also a confidante. She provides essential support, guidance, and prenatal classes that prepare you for childbirth.
At 22 weeks, you have to take a vaccination. You'll need to call and make an appointment, but your midwife will remind you. For more information, you can visit: https://rijksvaccinatieprogramma.nl/22wekenprik
Weeks 29-40 - Countdown to Delivery
As your due date approaches, you'll have more frequent midwife visits. Excitement and nervousness intertwine as you realise the big day is drawing near.
The decision between a home birth or a hospital birth weighs on your mind. Hospital births are generally covered by insurance, but if you opt for a home birth, the extra expenses and permissions seem like a small price to pay for the comfort of familiar surroundings.
Around 34-39 Week, you have to submit a birth plan to your midwife or hospital. This document allows you to state all your wishes, such as having only a female doctor, dim lighting, and the kind of painkillers you want to take, among other preferences.
In case of an emergency, you know you can count on your midwife or the hospital to provide immediate care. Your trust in their expertise puts your mind at ease.
Special Cases: If you had a previous C-section operation, the midwife will refer you to the hospital at 36 weeks, and you will be under the hospital's care from 37 weeks until delivery. During this period, there will be no midwife involved directly. After the delivery, the midwives will take over again starting from the second day of your baby's birth.
Checkout the Birth and baby essentials below or Here
Post-Delivery - Welcoming Your Baby
After the baby is born, your midwife's care continues. She becomes a guiding light during the vulnerable postnatal period, providing support for both you and your little one.
The relief and joy that wash over you as you hold your baby in your arms are unparalleled. With teary eyes and a full heart, you welcome your little miracle into the world.
Getting the Birth Certificate
After birth, your midwife or the hospital provides you with a "declaration of birth" document. The official paperwork feels like a badge of honour , symbolising your journey as a parent.
Take this document to the municipality (Gemeente) to register your baby's birth and obtain the birth certificate. As you stand in line with your little one, you realise this is the beginning of a lifetime of cherished memories.
If your child is born outside the Netherlands, you must register the birth with the local authorities in that country. Ensure that your child's foreign birth certificate is registered in the Netherlands. This process is crucial for legal recognition and to access various services and benefits provided by the Dutch government. Visit your municipal office with the provided "declaration of birth" and other necessary documents to complete the registration. For more info: Registering a birth and name of child
Residence Permit for the Baby
Within three days of birth, you inform the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) about your baby's birth and apply for their residence permit. Emotions surge as you realise you are now building a future for your child in a foreign land.
Gather the necessary documents and submit the application with hope in your heart, knowing that your baby will soon be a part of this beautiful country. For more info: Residence permit for child born in the Netherlands
A Heartfelt Invitation: We'd Love to Hear Your Pregnancy Experience!
Join us on a whimsical journey of Indian expats' pregnancy in the Netherlands! We'd love to hear about your unique experiences, challenges, and moments of joy throughout your pregnancy journey in a foreign land.
Your story can offer valuable insights, practical tips, and emotional support to others on the same path. Whether it's a humorous anecdote, heartwarming moment, or inspiring advice, your voice is important and can make a world of difference to someone going through a similar journey.
Let's create a community of love and empathy, and brighten the path for others during this magical phase of life in the Netherlands! Share your experiences in the comments below or send us an email at overseasdesis@gmail.com. Your story could be exactly what someone needs to find comfort in today. Your voice matters!
Thanks for writing this blog. It's very helpful information for expat.
As per my recent experience, please add the below points.
1- After 12 weeks of pregnancy, midwives share some Kraamzorg pamplates.
2- Before 4 months of delivery you should register the Kraamzorg.
3- You and your partner can choose your Kraamzorg who can help us after the pregnancy and guide us how we can take care of your baby. Because new mamma don't know about it, how can we handle the baby.
Here is link to register the Kraamzorg : https://www.dekraamvogel.nl/
4- Kraamzorg can take care like parents. They told you all the things that necessary for you and your new-born baby.