“Midwifery Care in the Netherlands: A Model of Excellence”
verloskundige kampen , or midwifery care, has been an integral part of the Dutch healthcare system for centuries. With a strong emphasis on natural and holistic approaches to childbirth, the Netherlands boasts one of the lowest maternal and infant mortality rates in the world. This is largely due to the country’s unique approach to midwifery care, which prioritizes the physical, emotional, and cultural needs of expectant mothers. In this blog post, we will explore the history and current state of midwifery healthcare in the Netherlands and why it serves as a model of excellence for the rest of the world.
The History of Midwifery Care in the Netherlands
The tradition of verloskundige kampen in the Netherlands dates back to the 16th century when midwives were first recognized as essential healthcare providers. At the time, midwives were trained through apprenticeships and primarily served women from lower social classes. However, in the 19th century, midwifery education was formalized, and the profession began to attract more highly skilled and educated women.
In the early 20th century, the “Kraamzorg” system was established, which provided new mothers with assistance and support during the postpartum period. This system is still in place today, and every Dutch …