Home Birth

What you need to know about giving birth at home

A home birth is very common in the Netherlands, but it is not automatically the standard for everyone. In our midwifery practice, we find it very important that—when medically safe—you can choose for yourself where you want to give birth: at home, in a birth centre, or in the hospital (outpatient). We help you build confidence in yourself and in your ability to give birth, wherever that may be. And when the time comes, we are there to guide you through your birth.

Can I simply give birth at home?

Yes, in the Netherlands you may choose where you want to give birth: at home or in the hospital. If you are healthy and your pregnancy is uncomplicated, giving birth at home is a safe and familiar option. Even in a large city like Amsterdam, this is perfectly possible. Our midwives are happy to support you with this.

Up to when are you allowed to give birth at home?

You may give birth at home between 37 and 42 weeks of pregnancy. Before that time (for example, at 35 weeks) or after 42 weeks, your birth becomes medical. This means that you will then give birth in the hospital under the supervision of a gynaecologist.

What do I need to arrange for a home birth?

Good preparation helps you approach your birth with confidence. Whether you plan to give birth at home or prefer the hospital (outpatient), you need to prepare the same things. During labour, we often perform several checks at your home first. For that, a raised bed (with bed risers) is necessary, along with all other essentials (such as towels and a mattress protector).
So even if you are not planning a home birth, you still need to prepare for one. The advantage is that you keep the freedom to decide—even while in labour—whether you want to stay at home or go to the hospital or birth centre (as long as it is medically safe).

You should always have the following at home, whether you give birth at home, in the hospital, or at a birth centre:

• A maternity kit (through your health insurance if you have supplementary coverage)
• A raised bed, at least 70 cm high (you can borrow bed risers from the homecare shop)
• A hospital bag in case you need to go to the hospital after all

We bring all medical supplies such as instruments, a birthing stool, oxygen, and everything else needed for a safe birth.

Who is present during a home birth?

For a home birth, you decide who you want to have with you. In any case, your midwife will be there—sometimes a second midwife for the actual birth—and often the maternity care professional is also present. She helps immediately after birth with the first care. Beyond that, it is up to you: your partner, mother, friend and/or a birth coach or doula.

What is safer: giving birth at home or in the hospital?

For healthy women with a normal pregnancy, giving birth at home is just as safe as giving birth in the hospital. Research shows that home births even involve fewer medical interventions, such as inductions or vacuum-assisted births. That is why home birth is also our preference—if it is your wish and if it is medically safe. Naturally, we always monitor closely whether everything is going well. And if it becomes necessary, we arrange for you to go to the hospital quickly.

What are the advantages of a home birth?

A home birth has many advantages, such as:

• You are in your own trusted environment, which helps you relax—something that positively influences the progress of labour.
• You determine the atmosphere and peace in your home.
• No unnecessary bustle from IVs or monitors if they are not needed.
• You can move freely.
• And after giving birth, you are already at home—quickly in your own clean bed without having to travel with your newborn baby.

What are potential disadvantages of giving birth at home?

If complications occur, you will still need to go to the hospital. And if you choose a hospital birth from the start, there is also the moment of going from home to the hospital during labour. That is essentially the biggest drawback of a home birth.
If you want pain relief during birth, this is also not possible at home because midwives do not carry medical pain relief with them.
Ultimately, the most important question is: where do you feel safe and comfortable?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it still safe to give birth at home?

Yes, if you are healthy and your pregnancy is progressing normally, giving birth at home is safe and responsible.

Can I give birth at home at 35 weeks?

No, that is considered preterm. You will give birth medically in the hospital.

Is a home birth free?

Yes, home birth is covered by basic health insurance and costs you nothing extra.

How high should your bed be for a home birth?

At least 70 cm high. This is necessary for a good working posture for the midwife.

How many towels do you need for a home birth?

Have at least 6 large bath towels ready. Dark-coloured towels are useful.

Do you want to give birth at home in Amsterdam-Zuid?

Our midwives support you throughout your entire pregnancy. We help you prepare for the birth—wherever you want it to take place. And if that is at home, we are happy to guide you there too.
Do you have questions about a home birth or about our guidance during pregnancy or birth at home? Ask us—we are here to help you.