In the Netherlands, most midwifery care is covered by the basic health insurance. This includes care before, during, and after your birth. However, there are still some costs you may need to pay yourself. Below, we outline these costs for you.
Tip: If possible, check your health insurance at the end of the year. While the basic coverage for midwifery care is the same across insurers, additional insurance policies can differ. Reviewing this can help reduce your personal costs.
Deductible costs for midwifery care
The Dutch healthcare system has a deductible (eigen risico). Routine check-ups with the midwife are not part of this deductible. Costs that do fall under the deductible include medications, blood tests, and transportation to the hospital for birth—so-called indirect costs. More information can be found on our website.
Prenatal screening
During your pregnancy, you have several opportunities for prenatal screening, such as the 13-week and 20-week ultrasounds and the NIPT test. The counseling session with the midwife and all screenings are covered by basic insurance.
Ultrasound costs
Several ultrasounds are performed during pregnancy. Those done by the midwife are usually free. Early ultrasounds without medical indication may have a cost. Check our website for the most up-to-date pricing for midwifery ultrasounds.
Pregnancy and birth courses
We highly recommend taking a pregnancy or birth course, with or without your partner. These courses are not considered midwifery care, so coverage depends on your insurance. Always check with your insurer whether the course is partially or fully reimbursed. You can also find information about our own birth course on our website.
Birth costs
If you give birth at home, midwifery care is fully covered. The same applies if you need to deliver in the hospital for medical reasons. If you choose to give birth in a birth center or hospital without medical necessity, part of the midwifery care may be covered by basic insurance, while the remainder may need to be paid out-of-pocket or covered by additional insurance. Check our website for more details on hospital birth coverage.
Postpartum care
Midwifery care during the postpartum week is covered by basic insurance. This is different for maternity care (kraamzorg), which usually has an hourly co-payment. Coverage may depend on your additional insurance.
Lactation consultant
While not midwifery care, you may choose to work with a lactation consultant. This can include breastfeeding courses during pregnancy or guidance after birth. Costs and services vary, so check whether your insurance reimburses this care.
Have you already chosen a midwifery practice? No? If not, we would be happy to help you. You can register using our convenient registration form.