Journal · International families
Registering for kraamzorg: a short guide
Kraamzorg is arranged before the birth, not after it. A few simple steps, taken early, bring calm later.
Step one: your insurer
Kraamzorg is part of Dutch basic health insurance, but the details differ by policy. Ask your insurer which care organisations they work with and what you may need to pay yourself.
Step two: a care organisation
Choose a kraamzorg organisation and register with them early in your pregnancy. They will discuss your wishes and plan the visits around your due date.
If you would like care in English, ask about it when you register.
Step three: plan beyond the first days
Kraamzorg supports you in the first days after birth. It is worth thinking about the weeks that follow as well: meals, sleep and who will be close by.
Another way to spend the first weeks
Some families choose to spend this time away from home. The Fourth Sanctuary is a postpartum retreat in a five-star hotel in the Netherlands, bringing together sanhujori and clinically guided Western midwifery. It is fully self-funded; details are shared personally on request.
Read next
Giving birth in the Netherlands as an expat
A calm overview for international families: midwife-led care, kraamzorg at home, and how to plan the weeks after birth far from family.
Kraamhotel or kraamzorg at home?
In the Netherlands, postnatal care usually comes to you at home. A kraamhotel or postpartum retreat is another option. How they differ.
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.