Journal · Choosing your care
Kraamhotel or kraamzorg at home?
In the Netherlands, the first days after birth are usually supported by kraamzorg: a maternity care assistant who visits you at home. Some families look for a stay elsewhere.
Kraamzorg at home
Kraamzorg is the Dutch system of postnatal care at home, arranged through your insurer and a care organisation. A kraamverzorgende visits during the first days, checks on mother and baby, and helps you settle in.
How many hours you receive, and what you pay yourself, depends on your situation and your insurance. Your insurer can tell you exactly.
A kraamhotel
A kraamhotel offers postnatal care in a hotel or care setting instead of at home. Some are linked to hospitals. The idea is the same: care and rest in the first days, away from the demands of home.
A postpartum retreat
A postpartum retreat, such as The Fourth Sanctuary, goes further in its attention to recovery. It brings together the Korean tradition of sanhujori and clinically guided Western midwifery, in a five-star hotel.
The Fourth Sanctuary is fully self-funded. Programme, length of stay and rates are shared personally on request.
Which suits you
Some families value being at home. Others want to be cared for somewhere quiet, with meals and rest arranged. There is no wrong choice, only the one that suits your family.
Read next
Postpartum doula or postpartum retreat?
A postpartum doula supports you at home; a postpartum retreat cares for you away from it. A calm comparison to help you choose.
English-speaking postpartum care in the Netherlands
For expats giving birth in the Netherlands: how Dutch postnatal care works, and where to find support in English.
The waiting list
A place is held for you
The Fourth Sanctuary is preparing to open. Join the waiting list and we will be in touch personally.