Moving to the Netherlands as an Indian expat and starting a family can be both exciting and overwhelming. Luckily, the Dutch healthcare system offers excellent maternity care to help you through every stage—from pregnancy to postpartum. Here’s a quick guide to get you started!

1. Prenatal Care In the Netherlands, midwives (verloskundigen) play a key role in prenatal care. Register with a midwife as soon as you suspect you’re pregnant. They’ll handle most of your care, including:

• • Routine Check-ups: Blood tests, baby’s growth, heartbeat, and ultrasounds (at 8-12 weeks and 20 weeks).
  • Health Insurance: Ensure your plan covers prenatal visits and ultrasounds.

2. Maternity Leave & Benefits The Dutch system offers generous maternity leave:

• • Maternity Leave: At least 16 weeks (6 weeks before due date and 10 weeks after).
  • Partner Leave: One week of paid leave, plus up to five weeks of unpaid leave, partially compensated.

3. Childbirth Options

• • Home Birth: The Netherlands is known for its support of home births, where a midwife will assist.
  • Hospital Birth: You can opt for a hospital birth, either midwife-led for low-risk pregnancies or obstetrician-led for high-risk situations.

4. Postnatal Care

• • Kraamzorg: A unique Dutch service where a professional helps with baby care and household tasks for up to 8 days post-birth.
  • Child Health Clinics: Regular check-ups for your baby’s growth and vaccinations.

5. Cultural Considerations & Support

• • Dutch Practices: The Dutch prefer natural childbirth with minimal intervention, so be prepared for a more hands-off approach.
  • Join Expat Communities: Connect with other Indian expats or parents for advice and support, both online and in person.

With the right preparation, maternity in the Netherlands can be a smooth, supportive experience. Embrace the local system, and enjoy this exciting new chapter in your life!