What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Groningen?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Groningen about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said...
"1. Research and choose a hospital or birthing center that suits your needs and preferences. Groningen has several hospitals and birthing centers with excellent maternity services. 2. Register your pregnancy with your local municipality as soon as possible. This is a legal requirement in the Netherlands and will ensure you receive the necessary prenatal care. 3. Consider hiring a doula or midwife. In the Netherlands, it's common to have a midwife-led birth, and many expats find this approach comforting and helpful. 4. Attend prenatal classes. These are a great way to meet other expectant parents, learn about the Dutch healthcare system, and prepare for childbirth. 5. Learn about the Dutch maternity leave system. The Netherlands has a generous maternity leave policy, but it's important to understand your rights and responsibilities. 6. Make sure you have health insurance. Healthcare in the Netherlands is not free, and having a baby can be expensive. Make sure your insurance covers maternity care. 7. Learn some Dutch. While many Dutch people speak excellent English, knowing some basic Dutch can be helpful, especially when dealing with healthcare professionals. 8. Prepare for a home birth. Home births are very common in the Netherlands, and even if you plan to give birth in a hospital, it's good to be prepared for the possibility of a home birth. 9. Get to know your local kraamzorg. This is a unique Dutch service where a nurse comes to your home after the birth to help with the baby and household chores. 10. Finally, embrace the Dutch way of doing things. The Netherlands has a very relaxed and natural approach to childbirth, which can be a refreshing change for many expats," remarked another expat who made the move to Groningen, The Netherlands.
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What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Groningen?
If you live in Groningen, newcomers to Groningen would love to hear your answer to this question.