Natural delivery
During a natural delivery the baby is born through the mother’s vagina. Most babies are born this way.
Surgical delivery: caesarean section
Surgical delivery is also called caesarean section. The doctor makes an incision in the mother’s belly to take out the baby. The incision is made just above the pubic hair.
Reasons for a caesarean section
Some of the most common reasons for a caesarean section are:
- The mother’s pelvis is too narrow to let the baby through;
- The placenta is in the entrance to the uterus (cervix) or the placenta has become detached;
- Part of the umbilical cord has come out through the cervix;
- The baby’s head is not lying downwards;
- There is more than 1 baby;
- Mother or child have a disease that makes a natural delivery impossible.
Pregnant in the Netherlands; seeing a midwife
More information or help needed?
General practitioner
You can talk to a general practitioner about every intimate topic. If necessary, a general practitioner can refer you to a specialised health professional. Refugees who have been granted (temporary) asylum choose a general practitioner in their municipality. Asylum seekers in an asylum seekers’ centre can consult a general practitioner at the centre.
Midwife
As soon as you know you are pregnant, you make an appointment with a midwife in your area. A midwife supports and advises you during your pregnancy, delivery and the period immediately after delivery.
Gynaecologist
If you are pregnant and have been given a referral, you go to a gynaecologist. The midwife or general practitioner gives you a referral.