What is kraamzorg?
Congratulations on your pregancy! A very exciting time for most, however it is completely normal to feel slightly stressed or anxious about what is to come. In the Netherlands, we have a unique concept called ‘kraamzorg’, this translates to ‘postnatal care’. It’s a service provided to a new mother and her baby in the initial eight to 10 days after giving birth. This way, new families don’t feel lost and alone when they get to take their newborn baby home. The kraamverzorgende, or the caregiver, will guide you through the first days. The caregiver will monitor the health and progress of both the newborn baby, as well as the mother. They will also help out around the house so the new parents can get some rest as well. Caregivers can help you figure out how to (breast)feed your baby and answer any questions you may have about your newborn baby.
The caregiver is supervised by your midwife (verloskundige). If the caregiver notices anything out of the ordinary, they can discuss their concerns with the midwife so they can choose the appropriate way to care for you.
Would you like to know more about kraamzorg? Check out this website.
Feel free to ask us any questions about postnatal care. You can also ask your midwife, health insurance company or GP (huisarts).
How many hours of postnatal care am I entitled to?
How many hours of postnatal care you are entitled to depends on your personal situation. Are you expecting twins or do you have a more complicated delivery ahead of you? Then you may be entitled to more hours. We will discuss this during the intake. The intake will take place around the seventh month of your pregnancy. Besides the hours, we will discuss any other needs you may have and manage expecations of postanatal care. Based on this information, we will create a ‘care plan’ in which goals and agreements are noted, derived from your wishes, habits and circumstances.
Please consider the following: there is a national shortage of postnatal nurses, to ensure your care please register with your preferred agency before the 16th week of your pregnancy.
How do I register?
Please consider the following: there is a national shortage of postnatal nurses, to ensure your care please register with your preferred agency before the 16th week of your pregnancy. It’s advised to contact your insurance company before your registration.
We are excited to support you through this exciting time in your life. Regardless of whether we have already met you through our midwives at Jij & Ik Verloskunde or if you are a completely new. Registering is easy, fill out the form by clicking the button below and we will contact you regarding the intake.