Maternity care
Care in the first week, with an eye for parents and baby
Congratulations on your pregnancy!
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Are you looking for a maternity care provider in the Nijmegen region? Then feel free to contact bevalkracht. Within bevalkracht, I am responsible for the maternity care. I would be happy to explore how I can support you in creating a gentle and safe landing for you and your baby.
When you choose bevalkracht maternity care, you already know during pregnancy who will be caring for you and your family after the birth of your baby. You have direct contact with me, so you can always count on personal care and attention. I am there for you, your baby, and your family throughout the week, ready to support you in every step of the postpartum period.
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If you would like to start your postpartum week well prepared, you can book a postpartum planning session with bevalkracht. During this session, I will guide you through everything that is important for the postpartum period — from breastfeeding and a rest and recovery plan to healthy nutrition and practical tips for around the home.
In addition to maternity care, bevalkracht also offers doula support. When you choose a doula package alongside maternity care with bevalkracht, you are assured of continuous and compassionate support from pregnancy through to welcoming your baby. You can find more information about bevalkracht’s doula support here.
Bevalkracht maternity care
Bevalkracht maternity care does not start only after the birth, but from the moment you register. I will visit you for a personal intake appointment, during which we discuss your situation and your wishes and expectations for the postpartum week.
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Would you like to give birth at home or in the hospital with your own midwife? Then we will be in contact at the start of your labor, so that I can support your midwife during the birth (labor assistance). If you have a medically assisted birth, I will take care of the start of maternity care once you return home.
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Below you can read what you can expect from bevalkracht during the postpartum week, so you have a clear picture of my support during this period.
Assisting your midwife
I provide professional support to your midwife during your labor, both at home and in the hospital in the case of a non-medical birth. I work closely with your midwife to ensure everything runs smoothly, and I am there for you and your partner with both emotional and practical support.
This care is covered by health insurance and is available from the moment labor begins.
Help with breastfeeding
Would you like to breastfeed? Then I devote plenty of time and attention to this during the postpartum week—not only by offering tips and advice, but also by creating a sense of calm and relaxation. This allows the breastfeeding hormones to do their work optimally, helping breastfeeding to get off to a good start. Together, we explore what feels best for you and your baby and work toward a comfortable and effective latch.
Care for your whole family
Are you already parents and expecting another baby? Then I offer care for the whole family. Special attention is given to your older child(ren), who may need time to adjust to the new family dynamic. By involving them in the care of the baby in a positive and gentle way, I help create a sense of calm and connection. This supports you in lovingly sharing your attention between your newborn and their older brother(s) or sister(s).
Medical checks
On a daily basis, I check how you and your baby are doing. For you, I monitor things such as your temperature, uterine position, blood loss, pulse, and overall condition. For your baby, I track growth, skin color, reflexes, and alertness. This allows me to quickly notice any concerns and ensure you both have a safe and healthy start. When necessary, I consult with your midwife.
Support and guidance
During the postpartum week, I support you and your partner in caring for and understanding the development of your baby. I provide guidance on feeding, hygiene, safety, and the health of both you and your baby. Every baby is unique, which is why we take the time together to get to know and understand your little one.
Nutrition
Balanced nutrition plays a crucial role in your recovery process and in breastfeeding. I am happy to support you in making the right choices, so your body receives the energy and nutrients it needs.
How does it work
1. Registration
Would you like me to be your maternity nurse? Then be sure to register in time by completing the registration form. It’s best to do this as soon as possible after your dating ultrasound, when your due date is determined (around 10 to 12 weeks of pregnancy).
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2. Getting to know each other
After your registration I will contact you to arrange a phone call to get to know each other.
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3. Intake
Between weeks 30 and 34 of your pregnancy, I will visit you for the intake appointment. During this meeting, we will review your wishes together discuss details such as the number of care hours and my responsibilities.
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We will also cover practical matters, such as the maternity kit, baby essentials, and your health insurance. If there are any special circumstances in your home situation or medical history, we will discuss those as well to ensure everything is well prepared.
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4. Birth
As soon as labor begins, you will let me know. Together, we will decide when I should come to you.
Is maternity care covered by my health insurance?
In the Netherlands, every woman is entitled to maternity care. Maternity care is therefore included in the basic health insurance package.
How many hours maternity care?
After the birth, you are legally entitled to a minimum of 24 hours and a maximum of 80 hours of maternity care, spread over the first 8 to 10 days. The standard number of hours is 49 for breastfeeding and 45 for bottle-feeding. The exact duration of maternity care depends on your personal situation, such as the health of the mother and baby and whether there has been a hospital stay.
Do I have to pay a personal contribution?
In 2026, a personal contribution of €5.70 per hour of maternity care applies. You can take out additional insurance to have this personal contribution reimbursed.