A birth doula (geboortedoula) offers continuous emotional, physical, and practical support before and during your birth. Unlike medical staff, the doula focuses on your comfort, calmness, and confidence with massage, breathing, positions, and clear communication. They also support the father or partner and provide continuity when moving from home to hospital.

In the Netherlands, a midwife (verloskundige) is medically responsible for monitoring mother and baby, while a doula provides non-medical support. A doula does not perform checks or deliver the baby but ensures you feel supported, informed, and empowered throughout the process. Many families find that the combination of doula + verloskundige offers the best of both worlds.

Yes. Even with pain relief or a planned c-section (keizersnede), a doula can guide you emotionally, explain what is happening, and support your partner. Families in Dutch hospitals often appreciate the extra calm presence, as busy staff cannot always stay by your side continuously.

A postpartum doula (of kraamhulp plus) offers emotional support, newborn care guidance, feeding help (borstvoeding or flesvoeding), household assistance, and rest support for new parents. While kraamzorg usually covers the first 8–10 days, many parents in the Netherlands hire a postpartum doula for extra help once kraamzorg ends.

This depends on your needs. Some families book a doula for just a few weeks after kraamzorg, while others continue support for several months. The flexible nature of a doula makes it easy to plan hourly visits or night shifts to help you recover and adjust.

In the Netherlands, basic zorgverzekering does not cover doula support, as it is considered non-medical. However, some aanvullende verzekeringen (supplementary insurances) may reimburse part of the costs under categories like alternative care or birth support. Always check with your health insurance provider.