Pregnancy
Congratulations!
Cautious happiness, bewilderment, disbelief, doubts or sheer joy? Anything is possible. Either way: you are pregnant. We are happy to help you on your way. We would love to support you towards a healthy and safe pregnancy and birth, and a good start afterwards. Once you have done a pregnancy test, you can contact us directly without a referral from your GP. You can register straight away using the registration form. You can also call us to make an appointment, Monday to Friday between 08:30 and 16:00.
First appointment
As soon as you know you are pregnant, make an appointment for a first check-up. We usually schedule this between the 6th and 9th week of your pregnancy. During this intake appointment we get to know you and map out your health situation.
This conversation forms the basis for the rest of your care.
We discuss your medical background and that of your partner, such as hereditary conditions, previous pregnancies or existing health problems. We also ask about your lifestyle: do you take medication, smoke or drink alcohol? We also measure your blood pressure and weight. You will receive information about blood tests, the first scan and prenatal screening. Would you like to go into this in more detail? Then we will schedule a separate appointment. It helps if you think about your questions or concerns beforehand; that way we get the most out of this appointment.
Follow-up check-ups
During your pregnancy we see you regularly for follow-up check-ups. The second appointment takes place a few weeks after the intake. We then discuss the results of the blood tests and the scan and set your final due date. We also take time to answer your questions and discuss any complaints.
Every check-up has a number of standard elements. We measure your blood pressure, listen to your baby’s heartbeat and monitor the growth of your womb. We also discuss topics such as the birth, your birth plan, your work and whether you prefer breastfeeding or bottle feeding. As your pregnancy progresses, the check-ups become more frequent. Around week 34 we schedule a home visit. From week 36 we see you every week. Would you like extra time during an appointment? Let us know when you book, so we can take this into account.
What to expect
Being pregnant brings many changes, both physical and emotional. You may feel happiness, uncertainty or even fear. That is normal. Perhaps you feel tired, or everything feels overwhelming. Relationships can change too. We support you step by step, so that you get through this period comfortably and safely. We take time for your questions and concerns and give you reliable information.
The first scan
In the first weeks of your pregnancy we carry out a scan. This is often a special moment: you see and hear your baby for the first time. The scan shows whether the heart is beating, how many weeks pregnant you are and whether the pregnancy is developing well. We usually do the first scan internally (transvaginally). It takes about ten minutes. You are welcome to bring your partner or someone else. The images and information from this scan help us to support your pregnancy well.
Tests and choices
During your pregnancy you can choose to have prenatal screening, such as the NIPT, the 13-week scan or the 20-week scan. These give insight into possible abnormalities or health risks for your baby. Whether you have these tests is your choice. Some women want to know as much as possible, others would rather not. We explain the options clearly and help you make a decision that suits you. You can always ask for a separate appointment if you are unsure about this.
More about prenatal screening
Feeling your baby move
Between the 18th and 20th week, many women feel their baby move for the first time. At first these are gentle kicks or a fluttering feeling in your belly. As your pregnancy progresses, the movements become stronger and more regular. It is good to pay attention to your baby’s pattern. Do you suddenly feel your baby moving less or differently? Always contact us. We give you tips on how to take moments to consciously feel your baby.
Nutrition and health
What you eat during your pregnancy is important for both you and your baby. Healthy nutrition supports your baby’s growth and development. Still, it can be difficult to know what you can and can’t eat, especially with complaints such as nausea, heartburn or tiredness. We give you practical tips on food, drink, supplements such as folic acid and vitamin D, and how to keep up a balanced diet. You can also come to us with questions about vegetarian or vegan eating, food allergies or being overweight.
Common pregnancy complaints
Being pregnant sometimes comes with discomforts, such as back pain, pelvic pain, heartburn, constipation or sleeping problems. These complaints can be unpleasant, but are often part of pregnancy. Fortunately, there are usually ways to relieve them. We think with you about posture, exercise, nutrition or adjustments to your daily routine. Sometimes we refer you to a physiotherapist or dietitian with experience of working with pregnant women.
Arranging practical matters
Besides the physical changes, you also need to arrange practical matters, such as booking maternity home care (preferably before week 12), registering with a maternity hotel or birth centre, applying for maternity leave from your employer and putting together everything you need for your baby. We help you on your way with checklists, tips and information about what to look out for. We also discuss your preferences for the birth in advance, so that you can make a birth plan in good time.
When things go differently
Sometimes a pregnancy goes differently than you had hoped, for example with bleeding, a miscarriage or if you feel unwell for a long time. These are life-changing events that bring up a lot of emotions. You can come to us for a conversation, extra check-ups or support. We work together with GPs, gynaecologists and psychologists when more care is needed. You are not alone. Even in difficult situations, we offer you attention, support and medical care.
Together we make sure you feel heard, supported and well informed during every stage of your pregnancy. Do you have questions or are you unsure about something? Feel free to contact us. We are here to think it through with you.