Full Version: having a baby in Belgium vs Netherlands?
Dear mums amd mums to be, who has experience of this? I help ladies in eindhoven cope with having babies etc in holland. i really would appreciate experiences being shared. PLEASE.
Dear itsgoingtobeok,
I am moving to Belgium this summer but I live in NL right now. I am also 10 weeks pregnant so my husband and I will be in Belgium when the baby is born. We are starting to do our research about the Belgian healthcare system. I am not surprised to see you post this here as I have been nauseated (on top of my morning sickness!) to read about some of the horror stories that ladies have posted on the Dutch Expatica forum about giving birth in NL. This is my first baby and I'm a pretty tough lady but of course it's just my husband and I here with no family in this country so you reach for support where you can. It frightened the daylights out of me reading those posts, then I came to the Belgian forum and read some lovely posts about excellent hospitals and obgyns, such a stark contrast. Of course there are good and bad stories everywhere, but now I understand why quite a lot of NL expats come to Belgium to have their babies. Good luck, I hope someone can help you to best support NL mom's to be. I have to admit I am very glad we will be in Belgium for this little tykes birth.
I am moving to Belgium this summer but I live in NL right now. I am also 10 weeks pregnant so my husband and I will be in Belgium when the baby is born. We are starting to do our research about the Belgian healthcare system. I am not surprised to see you post this here as I have been nauseated (on top of my morning sickness!) to read about some of the horror stories that ladies have posted on the Dutch Expatica forum about giving birth in NL. This is my first baby and I'm a pretty tough lady but of course it's just my husband and I here with no family in this country so you reach for support where you can. It frightened the daylights out of me reading those posts, then I came to the Belgian forum and read some lovely posts about excellent hospitals and obgyns, such a stark contrast. Of course there are good and bad stories everywhere, but now I understand why quite a lot of NL expats come to Belgium to have their babies. Good luck, I hope someone can help you to best support NL mom's to be. I have to admit I am very glad we will be in Belgium for this little tykes birth.
I lived in Belgium for four years and worked with Flemish midwives (and delivered our second in Belgium). The birth experience and one's satisfaction with it have a great deal to do with knowledge and expectations. I had a highly medicalized first birth and chose for an epidural. Within minutes of the epidural, my blood pressure crashed and I was wheeled into the OR (for an "almost" emergency C/S). By the time I gave birth, I had an audience of more than 15 medical people in the room. My symptoms and my baby's were directly related to having an epidural. Not all women experience these side effects, but some do. I then carefully saught out alternatives to medicalized birth and found a wonderful Flemish midwife who delivered our second child at home. Our home birth was peaceful, loving, intimate, and simply incredible. I have worked in both countries (US and Belgium) in this field and have a great deal to say about it. I invite you to read and explore your options and make your decisions from there. Find an OB or midwife who is supportive of your choices. One last simple example...almost all women in hospitals are delivered on their back (which is the most convenient position for the doctor). When I asked my Flemish OB if I could deliver in another position (which all depends on the position of the baby and the mother's comfort level at the time), he responded, "well...most mothers like to deliver on their back." (He never delivered a women in any other position). A good midwife respects the birth process and will allow you to choose any position you feel comfortable with, including in water or not. Bottom line, ask around.
Dear Mommies, I watch this discussion with horror and also a deep sense of powerlessness.
My work is to consult with mothers to be and new mums who arrive in the country and are to deliver here or are thinking about it. I only work in the south because Access runs what i do in the randstad area with great success. So may factors are involved in having a baby in Holland. By the way, have any of you read the book?
Firstly before you come you often will have read sites like this. Boy, they are informative BUT try to remember they are a personal experience. it does not mean that it is always like this nor does it mean that this is what will happen. Each person has a different birth with each baby. I have had 2 babies in Holland. As a trained midwife I was very critical! My first was a planned in hospital delivery with my midwife(Male!). We really went for it but after an hour of pushing he had no option but to call the gynae. this turned out negatively, as he tried to do a vacuum but my son was still to high up. I refused to co-operate as it was too painful. he then did a C/S. When I fell pregnant again we went to a different gynae, the head of the dept. and talked at length with him. he then put in red, on paper the following: will do trial of labour, plenty of pain med, no high vacuum etc. My midwife gave me pethidine without any delay, but unfortunetly she also got stuck and as soon as i got pain between contractions the gynae was called and I was c/s. I was not allowed a spinal as it would have masked any pain symptoms that they had to watch for, ie the pain in between. by the way, epidurals do fail, can fail, are not without serious possible complications and are given in this country when there is a medical reason to or when they are dealing with foreigners - often are arranged. You may always have pethidine in holland. only not at home. if you want a home delivery, no medicines. if you want medicines you have to do hospital. As a midwife trained out of the country i completely support this. There are many alternative pain measures which do work. No, not all is well here, but it is improving! I for one am hard at work fighting for the rights of the labouring froeigner, but I also know the dangers of medicines. I would say, talk to me or someone at access. Helen Dickson in Amsterdam or Valerie Bell in the Hague. I also have more contacts elsewhere. Try not to get caught up in a negative spiral. It can be a positive experience and plenty do. they just don't go online as easy as the poor ladies who have had a bad deal and are still suffering. by the way, the CHP nearly cost me my life 3 weeks after the birth but my own GP saved it and sent me packing with an ambulance asap. there are good and bad. just remember the power of ones thoughts are a factor and a strong one. I will follow this discussion and am open to criticism!
My work is to consult with mothers to be and new mums who arrive in the country and are to deliver here or are thinking about it. I only work in the south because Access runs what i do in the randstad area with great success. So may factors are involved in having a baby in Holland. By the way, have any of you read the book?
Firstly before you come you often will have read sites like this. Boy, they are informative BUT try to remember they are a personal experience. it does not mean that it is always like this nor does it mean that this is what will happen. Each person has a different birth with each baby. I have had 2 babies in Holland. As a trained midwife I was very critical! My first was a planned in hospital delivery with my midwife(Male!). We really went for it but after an hour of pushing he had no option but to call the gynae. this turned out negatively, as he tried to do a vacuum but my son was still to high up. I refused to co-operate as it was too painful. he then did a C/S. When I fell pregnant again we went to a different gynae, the head of the dept. and talked at length with him. he then put in red, on paper the following: will do trial of labour, plenty of pain med, no high vacuum etc. My midwife gave me pethidine without any delay, but unfortunetly she also got stuck and as soon as i got pain between contractions the gynae was called and I was c/s. I was not allowed a spinal as it would have masked any pain symptoms that they had to watch for, ie the pain in between. by the way, epidurals do fail, can fail, are not without serious possible complications and are given in this country when there is a medical reason to or when they are dealing with foreigners - often are arranged. You may always have pethidine in holland. only not at home. if you want a home delivery, no medicines. if you want medicines you have to do hospital. As a midwife trained out of the country i completely support this. There are many alternative pain measures which do work. No, not all is well here, but it is improving! I for one am hard at work fighting for the rights of the labouring froeigner, but I also know the dangers of medicines. I would say, talk to me or someone at access. Helen Dickson in Amsterdam or Valerie Bell in the Hague. I also have more contacts elsewhere. Try not to get caught up in a negative spiral. It can be a positive experience and plenty do. they just don't go online as easy as the poor ladies who have had a bad deal and are still suffering. by the way, the CHP nearly cost me my life 3 weeks after the birth but my own GP saved it and sent me packing with an ambulance asap. there are good and bad. just remember the power of ones thoughts are a factor and a strong one. I will follow this discussion and am open to criticism!
I have just discovered I am pregnant and am living in Antwerp. The discussions above really make me fearful of having my baby here. In australia (my homeland) the gyno always follows the pregnancy through and delivers the baby at the end. Here, I was told there is no need to see a gynocologist at this stage, perhaps later on when things are more developed. What about regular ultrasounds? Checking for complications and/or defects? I had a considerable bleed (maybe heavy spotting but bright red) into my fifth week, before I discovered I was pregnant. This worries me. I have not been in Belgium long and until now, have not needed a doctor. I chose a GP at random and can only hope things will go well. Any advice would be very welcome.
find a midwife and see one asap. midwives only deliver babies. nothing else. Gynae's deliver babies where there are complications and do all the other female problems which have little to do with babies! I understand your fear but maybe it helps to know midwives are birthing specialists. often they take more time to reassure and inform. DON'T get in a panick, not good for you or the baby. take a deep breath and start your search to find a health care provider who wins your confidence.
here is something I found for you on internet:
Provincie ANTWERPEN
Naam Adres Telefoon/GSM E-mail Code
Marthe Byttebier Gouverneur Holvoetlaan 30, 2100 Deurne 03/321.16.50 BCDEJKM
Mieke Cox-Holtrust Sion Kloosterslaan 27, 2930 Brasschaat 03/633.24.48 ABCDEFGHIJKL
Dorien Daems Oosterveldlaan 170, 2610 Wilrijk 0496/12.79.59 <a href="mailto:dorien.daems@pandora.be" Target="_BLANK">dorien.daems@pandora.be</a> JK
Anne Daneels Kapellenkouter 72, 2070 Zwijndrecht 03/253.15.05 ACDEFGHJKL
Laurence De Backer Zwanenlaan 14, 2610 Wilrijk 0478/97.39.03 <a href="mailto:laurence.de.backer@pandora.be" Target="_BLANK">laurence.de.backer@pandora.be</a> JK
Els De Beul Clemenshoek 85, 2840 Reet 0477/46.04.12 <a href="mailto:els.de.beul@telenet.be" Target="_BLANK">els.de.beul@telenet.be</a> ABCDEJK
Annemieke De Prins Dijkbaan 35, 2290 Vorselaar 0478/78.67.74 BDEJKM
Eva de Roover Duffelsesteenweg 63, 2550 Kontich 0478/812.433 CDJK
Brenda De Swert Heidijk 6A bus 4, 2860 St. Katelijne Waver 015/31.89.61 - 0472/91.01.29 <a href="mailto:brenda.deswert@operamail.com" Target="_BLANK">brenda.deswert@operamail.com</a> BCEJKM
Veerle Devolder Bassinstraat 21, 2850 Boom 03/230.97.82 - 0473/39.99.44 <a href="mailto:veerledevolder@tijd.com" Target="_BLANK">veerledevolder@tijd.com</a> ACDEFGHJKL
Christel De Wit Bunderbeeklaan 1, 2950 Kapellen 03/605.26.82 - 0496/26.60.86 ACDEJKL
Dominique Franquet Polderstraat 15, 2800 Mechelen 015/33.02.19 <a href="mailto:d.franquet@skynet.be" Target="_BLANK">d.franquet@skynet.be</a> BDJKM
Els Geukens Britselei 10 bus 4, 2000 Antwerpen 03/294.01.90 - 0479/39.74.39 JKL
Ann Goossens Kontichstraat 64, 2650 Edegem 03/457.50.55 - 0499/42.21.04 <a href="mailto:ann.goossens@pandora.be" Target="_BLANK">ann.goossens@pandora.be</a> ACDEJKL
Eva Hensbergen Essenhoutstraat 32, 2950 Kapellen 03/605.41.09 ABCDEFJKLM
Ilse Houben Hanendreef 99, 2930 Brasschaat 03/651.93.52 - 0485/28.92.82 ABCDEFGJKL
Mireille Hardy Locomotiefstraat 20, 2800 Mechelen 0473/87.68.83 <a href="mailto:mirehar@yahoo.com" Target="_BLANK">mirehar@yahoo.com</a> ABCDEFJK
Tine Himpe Molenveldlaan 40, 2650 Edegem 03/440.22.52 - 0496/06.02.97 <a href="mailto:hime.tine@skynet.be" Target="_BLANK">hime.tine@skynet.be</a> CDEJK
Ann Joossen Van Dijckstraat 93, 2640 Mortsel 0476/65.60.16 <a href="mailto:an.joosen@pandora.be" Target="_BLANK">an.joosen@pandora.be</a> BCDEFJKLM
Annie Klein Zegersdreef 126, 2930 Brasschaat 03/651.91.82 - 0474/37.77.40 DFHJK
Hilde Labarque De Bosschaertstraat 174, 2020 Antwerpen 0474/24.38.11 Fax:03/237.67.27 <a href="mailto:hilde.labarque@ttsol.com" Target="_BLANK">hilde.labarque@ttsol.com</a> ABCDJKLM
Lut Lenie J. B. Pittoorsstraat 32, 2110 Wijnegem 03/294.06.10 - 0485/91.02.79 ABCDJKLM
Martine Marckx Winkelstraat 23, 2890 St. Amands a/d Schelde 052/34.28.16 - 052/33.59.89 Fax:052/34.28.16 CDEFJK
Ria Nagels J. Verbovenlei 71, 2100 Deurne 03/322.56.11 - 0479/27.18.93 JK
Els Pauwels Schransstraat 38, 2530 Boechout 0479/64.57.36 <a href="mailto:pauwels.els@tiscali.be" Target="_BLANK">pauwels.els@tiscali.be</a> CDJK
Greet Raeymaeckers Van Trierstraat 18, 2018 Antwerpen 03/237.81.43 - 0486/51.92.89 BCFGHJKLM
Ingrid Schmit Kwikstaartstraat 38, 2170 Merksem 03/645.47.09 - 0497/19.08.49 <a href="mailto:ingrid@altersonic.com" Target="_BLANK">ingrid@altersonic.com</a> CDEJK
Else Schoenmaekers Salvatorstraat 3, 2242 Pulderbos 03/484.51.94 - 0472/32.05.19 EJK
Karine Sol Akkerschootstraat 6, 2340 Beerse 014/61.53.65 - 0485/64.18.51 <a href="mailto:karine.sol@pandora.be" Target="_BLANK">karine.sol@pandora.be</a> BCDEFJKM
Magda Tersago Mechelsesteenweg 198, 2550 Kontich 03/457.74.78 - 0479/97.10.72 <a href="mailto:magda_tersago@hotmail.com" Target="_BLANK">magda_tersago@hotmail.com</a> ABCDEFJKLM
Lief Van Den Bossche Gerheiden 1A, 2250 Olen 014/22.36.20 - 0474/45.22.36 DEJK
Ilse Van Den Brande Paviljoenstraat 62, 2400 Mol 014/82.03.66 <a href="mailto:ilsevandenbrande@skynet.be" Target="_BLANK">ilsevandenbrande@skynet.be</a> DEJK
Greet Van Dijck De Fourneaustraat 16, 2600 Berchem 03/281.56.33 ABCDEFGHJKLM
Inge Van Goubergen Raapbreukstraat 50, 2200 Herentals 014/21.67.06 - 0485/20.36.75 Fax:014/21.67.06 AEJK
Marijke Van Hoeck Romeinse Put 140, 2650 Edegem 03/288.41.27 - 0495/26.72.02 Fax:03/288.41.27 ABCDJKLM
Marie-José Van Herck Goorstraat 46, 2470 Retie 014/37.06.98 EHI
Monique Van Holderbeke Hooiman 19, 3980 Schoot-Tessenderlo 013/66.19.61 - 0474/51.42.33 Fax:013/29.02.93 monique_vanholderbeke
@pandora.be ABCDEFJKLM
Katleen Van Loenhout Beylestraat 79/A, 2910 Essen 03/677.13.91 CDEFGHJKL
Els Vereecken Rodenbachlaan 18, 2910 Essen 03/667.38.10 - 0486/94.37.23 els.vereecken2
@pandora.be ACDEFGHJKL
Karen Wezenbeek Iependreef 21, 2950 Kapellen 03/605.98.81 ACDEFGHIJKL
Els Woestenbergs Biekensstraat 4, 2350 Vosselaar 014/61.77.20 CDEFJK
Verloskundig Team
Rita Daems Veldstraat 42, 2560 Kessel 03/480.94.12 - 0478/58.86.68 <a href="mailto:Rita@dommel.com" Target="_BLANK">Rita@dommel.com</a> ABCDEFHIJKLM
Ann Somers Predikherenlaan 15, 2500 Lier 03/480.76.00 - 0476/28.51.33 <a href="mailto:geboortehuisena@global.be" Target="_BLANK">geboortehuisena@global.be</a> ABCDEFGHJKLM
Julie Jerumanis Rooienberg 84, 2570 Duffel 0496/07.56.83 <a href="mailto:julie.jerumanis@tiscali.be" Target="_BLANK">julie.jerumanis@tiscali.be</a>
Andrea Nunez Doelveldstraat 25, 2650 Edegem 0486/18.16.66 <a href="mailto:andrea_nunez@hotmail.com" Target="_BLANK">andrea_nunez@hotmail.com</a> ACDEJK
Verloskundig Team
Lieve Huybrechts Lebonstraat 106, 2440 Geel 014/58.56.54 - 0477/74.08.53 <a href="mailto:lieve_huybrechts@yahoo.com" Target="_BLANK">lieve_huybrechts@yahoo.com</a> ABCDEFGHJKLM
Ann Jamers Waterstraat 36, 2440 Geel 0476/70.69.69 <a href="mailto:annj2000@yahoo.com" Target="_BLANK">annj2000@yahoo.com</a> ABCDEFGHJKLM
Leen Heusdens Stevoortweg 155, 3540 Herk-de-Stad 0478/29.71.54 <a href="mailto:heusdens.leen@telenet.be" Target="_BLANK">heusdens.leen@telenet.be</a> ABCDEFGHJKLM
Jo Deben Koolmijnlaan 186, 3582 Koersel 011/43.40.08 <a href="mailto:haptojo@yahoo.com" Target="_BLANK">haptojo@yahoo.com</a> BCDEFGHJKM
Verloskundig Team
Jo Michielsen August Van Putlei 139, 2150 Borsbeek 03/322.73.64 CDEFGHJKL
Catherine Regniers Standonklaan 86, 2610 Wilrijk 03/828.96.10 CDEFGHJKL
Verloskundig Team
Kitty Van Den Bogaert Kattestraat 18, 2811 Hombeek 015/41.00.14 - 0495/52.71.92 kittyvandenbogaert
@skynet.be ABCDEFGHJKLM
Julie Jerumanis Kauwendaal 11 bus 2, 2800 Mechelen 0496/07.56.83 <a href="mailto:julie.jerumanis@tiscali.be" Target="_BLANK">julie.jerumanis@tiscali.be</a>
Nele Nees Humbeeksebaan 117, 1980 Zemst-Laar 0472/57.68.86 <a href="mailto:nele_nees@hotmail.com" Target="_BLANK">nele_nees@hotmail.com</a> ABCDEFGHIJKLM
Verloskundig Team
Marijke Proost Kopstraat 89, 2900 Schoten 03/289.80.05 BCDEFGHJK
Elke De Keulenaer Zwanebloemstraat 28, 2900 Schoten 03/658.59.91 - 0498/08.94.30 BCDEFGHJK
Verloskundige praktijk "Het Klavertje" Raadhuisstraat 2D, 5131 AL Alphen (Nl) 0031/13.508.27.73 ABCEGJKL (+ voor- lichtingsavond werkwijze)
Linda Van Beek Baarle-Hertog (
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Verklaring van de gebruikte codes
A Raadpleging rond fertiliteit en familieplanning
B Zwangerschapscursussen in groep of individueel (vb.:voorbereidingsreeks op de bevalling, prenataal zwemmen, haptonomie, enz...)
C Zwangerschapsraadpleging met advies rond voeding, hygiëne en voorbereiding op de bevalling
D Volgen van een risico-zwangerschap ten huize van de zwangere vrouw op voorschrift van de gynaecoloog
E Begeleiding bij miskraam
F Volgen van de arbeid thuis bij een geplande ziekenhuisbevalling
G Thuisbevalling
H Bevalling uitgevoerd door een zelfstandige vroedvrouw in een ziekenhuismilieu
I Bevalling uitgevoerd in een geboortecentrum
J Medische verzorging en begeleiding van moeder en kind tijdens de kraamperiode
K Advies voor moeder en kind
L Zes weken onderzoek en advies rond familieplanning
M Postnatale cursussen in groep (vb.: moedergroepen, ouderschapscursus, babymassage, enz...)
here is something I found for you on internet:
Provincie ANTWERPEN
Naam Adres Telefoon/GSM E-mail Code
Marthe Byttebier Gouverneur Holvoetlaan 30, 2100 Deurne 03/321.16.50 BCDEJKM
Mieke Cox-Holtrust Sion Kloosterslaan 27, 2930 Brasschaat 03/633.24.48 ABCDEFGHIJKL
Dorien Daems Oosterveldlaan 170, 2610 Wilrijk 0496/12.79.59 <a href="mailto:dorien.daems@pandora.be" Target="_BLANK">dorien.daems@pandora.be</a> JK
Anne Daneels Kapellenkouter 72, 2070 Zwijndrecht 03/253.15.05 ACDEFGHJKL
Laurence De Backer Zwanenlaan 14, 2610 Wilrijk 0478/97.39.03 <a href="mailto:laurence.de.backer@pandora.be" Target="_BLANK">laurence.de.backer@pandora.be</a> JK
Els De Beul Clemenshoek 85, 2840 Reet 0477/46.04.12 <a href="mailto:els.de.beul@telenet.be" Target="_BLANK">els.de.beul@telenet.be</a> ABCDEJK
Annemieke De Prins Dijkbaan 35, 2290 Vorselaar 0478/78.67.74 BDEJKM
Eva de Roover Duffelsesteenweg 63, 2550 Kontich 0478/812.433 CDJK
Brenda De Swert Heidijk 6A bus 4, 2860 St. Katelijne Waver 015/31.89.61 - 0472/91.01.29 <a href="mailto:brenda.deswert@operamail.com" Target="_BLANK">brenda.deswert@operamail.com</a> BCEJKM
Veerle Devolder Bassinstraat 21, 2850 Boom 03/230.97.82 - 0473/39.99.44 <a href="mailto:veerledevolder@tijd.com" Target="_BLANK">veerledevolder@tijd.com</a> ACDEFGHJKL
Christel De Wit Bunderbeeklaan 1, 2950 Kapellen 03/605.26.82 - 0496/26.60.86 ACDEJKL
Dominique Franquet Polderstraat 15, 2800 Mechelen 015/33.02.19 <a href="mailto:d.franquet@skynet.be" Target="_BLANK">d.franquet@skynet.be</a> BDJKM
Els Geukens Britselei 10 bus 4, 2000 Antwerpen 03/294.01.90 - 0479/39.74.39 JKL
Ann Goossens Kontichstraat 64, 2650 Edegem 03/457.50.55 - 0499/42.21.04 <a href="mailto:ann.goossens@pandora.be" Target="_BLANK">ann.goossens@pandora.be</a> ACDEJKL
Eva Hensbergen Essenhoutstraat 32, 2950 Kapellen 03/605.41.09 ABCDEFJKLM
Ilse Houben Hanendreef 99, 2930 Brasschaat 03/651.93.52 - 0485/28.92.82 ABCDEFGJKL
Mireille Hardy Locomotiefstraat 20, 2800 Mechelen 0473/87.68.83 <a href="mailto:mirehar@yahoo.com" Target="_BLANK">mirehar@yahoo.com</a> ABCDEFJK
Tine Himpe Molenveldlaan 40, 2650 Edegem 03/440.22.52 - 0496/06.02.97 <a href="mailto:hime.tine@skynet.be" Target="_BLANK">hime.tine@skynet.be</a> CDEJK
Ann Joossen Van Dijckstraat 93, 2640 Mortsel 0476/65.60.16 <a href="mailto:an.joosen@pandora.be" Target="_BLANK">an.joosen@pandora.be</a> BCDEFJKLM
Annie Klein Zegersdreef 126, 2930 Brasschaat 03/651.91.82 - 0474/37.77.40 DFHJK
Hilde Labarque De Bosschaertstraat 174, 2020 Antwerpen 0474/24.38.11 Fax:03/237.67.27 <a href="mailto:hilde.labarque@ttsol.com" Target="_BLANK">hilde.labarque@ttsol.com</a> ABCDJKLM
Lut Lenie J. B. Pittoorsstraat 32, 2110 Wijnegem 03/294.06.10 - 0485/91.02.79 ABCDJKLM
Martine Marckx Winkelstraat 23, 2890 St. Amands a/d Schelde 052/34.28.16 - 052/33.59.89 Fax:052/34.28.16 CDEFJK
Ria Nagels J. Verbovenlei 71, 2100 Deurne 03/322.56.11 - 0479/27.18.93 JK
Els Pauwels Schransstraat 38, 2530 Boechout 0479/64.57.36 <a href="mailto:pauwels.els@tiscali.be" Target="_BLANK">pauwels.els@tiscali.be</a> CDJK
Greet Raeymaeckers Van Trierstraat 18, 2018 Antwerpen 03/237.81.43 - 0486/51.92.89 BCFGHJKLM
Ingrid Schmit Kwikstaartstraat 38, 2170 Merksem 03/645.47.09 - 0497/19.08.49 <a href="mailto:ingrid@altersonic.com" Target="_BLANK">ingrid@altersonic.com</a> CDEJK
Else Schoenmaekers Salvatorstraat 3, 2242 Pulderbos 03/484.51.94 - 0472/32.05.19 EJK
Karine Sol Akkerschootstraat 6, 2340 Beerse 014/61.53.65 - 0485/64.18.51 <a href="mailto:karine.sol@pandora.be" Target="_BLANK">karine.sol@pandora.be</a> BCDEFJKM
Magda Tersago Mechelsesteenweg 198, 2550 Kontich 03/457.74.78 - 0479/97.10.72 <a href="mailto:magda_tersago@hotmail.com" Target="_BLANK">magda_tersago@hotmail.com</a> ABCDEFJKLM
Lief Van Den Bossche Gerheiden 1A, 2250 Olen 014/22.36.20 - 0474/45.22.36 DEJK
Ilse Van Den Brande Paviljoenstraat 62, 2400 Mol 014/82.03.66 <a href="mailto:ilsevandenbrande@skynet.be" Target="_BLANK">ilsevandenbrande@skynet.be</a> DEJK
Greet Van Dijck De Fourneaustraat 16, 2600 Berchem 03/281.56.33 ABCDEFGHJKLM
Inge Van Goubergen Raapbreukstraat 50, 2200 Herentals 014/21.67.06 - 0485/20.36.75 Fax:014/21.67.06 AEJK
Marijke Van Hoeck Romeinse Put 140, 2650 Edegem 03/288.41.27 - 0495/26.72.02 Fax:03/288.41.27 ABCDJKLM
Marie-José Van Herck Goorstraat 46, 2470 Retie 014/37.06.98 EHI
Monique Van Holderbeke Hooiman 19, 3980 Schoot-Tessenderlo 013/66.19.61 - 0474/51.42.33 Fax:013/29.02.93 monique_vanholderbeke
@pandora.be ABCDEFJKLM
Katleen Van Loenhout Beylestraat 79/A, 2910 Essen 03/677.13.91 CDEFGHJKL
Els Vereecken Rodenbachlaan 18, 2910 Essen 03/667.38.10 - 0486/94.37.23 els.vereecken2
@pandora.be ACDEFGHJKL
Karen Wezenbeek Iependreef 21, 2950 Kapellen 03/605.98.81 ACDEFGHIJKL
Els Woestenbergs Biekensstraat 4, 2350 Vosselaar 014/61.77.20 CDEFJK
Verloskundig Team
Rita Daems Veldstraat 42, 2560 Kessel 03/480.94.12 - 0478/58.86.68 <a href="mailto:Rita@dommel.com" Target="_BLANK">Rita@dommel.com</a> ABCDEFHIJKLM
Ann Somers Predikherenlaan 15, 2500 Lier 03/480.76.00 - 0476/28.51.33 <a href="mailto:geboortehuisena@global.be" Target="_BLANK">geboortehuisena@global.be</a> ABCDEFGHJKLM
Julie Jerumanis Rooienberg 84, 2570 Duffel 0496/07.56.83 <a href="mailto:julie.jerumanis@tiscali.be" Target="_BLANK">julie.jerumanis@tiscali.be</a>
Andrea Nunez Doelveldstraat 25, 2650 Edegem 0486/18.16.66 <a href="mailto:andrea_nunez@hotmail.com" Target="_BLANK">andrea_nunez@hotmail.com</a> ACDEJK
Verloskundig Team
Lieve Huybrechts Lebonstraat 106, 2440 Geel 014/58.56.54 - 0477/74.08.53 <a href="mailto:lieve_huybrechts@yahoo.com" Target="_BLANK">lieve_huybrechts@yahoo.com</a> ABCDEFGHJKLM
Ann Jamers Waterstraat 36, 2440 Geel 0476/70.69.69 <a href="mailto:annj2000@yahoo.com" Target="_BLANK">annj2000@yahoo.com</a> ABCDEFGHJKLM
Leen Heusdens Stevoortweg 155, 3540 Herk-de-Stad 0478/29.71.54 <a href="mailto:heusdens.leen@telenet.be" Target="_BLANK">heusdens.leen@telenet.be</a> ABCDEFGHJKLM
Jo Deben Koolmijnlaan 186, 3582 Koersel 011/43.40.08 <a href="mailto:haptojo@yahoo.com" Target="_BLANK">haptojo@yahoo.com</a> BCDEFGHJKM
Verloskundig Team
Jo Michielsen August Van Putlei 139, 2150 Borsbeek 03/322.73.64 CDEFGHJKL
Catherine Regniers Standonklaan 86, 2610 Wilrijk 03/828.96.10 CDEFGHJKL
Verloskundig Team
Kitty Van Den Bogaert Kattestraat 18, 2811 Hombeek 015/41.00.14 - 0495/52.71.92 kittyvandenbogaert
@skynet.be ABCDEFGHJKLM
Julie Jerumanis Kauwendaal 11 bus 2, 2800 Mechelen 0496/07.56.83 <a href="mailto:julie.jerumanis@tiscali.be" Target="_BLANK">julie.jerumanis@tiscali.be</a>
Nele Nees Humbeeksebaan 117, 1980 Zemst-Laar 0472/57.68.86 <a href="mailto:nele_nees@hotmail.com" Target="_BLANK">nele_nees@hotmail.com</a> ABCDEFGHIJKLM
Verloskundig Team
Marijke Proost Kopstraat 89, 2900 Schoten 03/289.80.05 BCDEFGHJK
Elke De Keulenaer Zwanebloemstraat 28, 2900 Schoten 03/658.59.91 - 0498/08.94.30 BCDEFGHJK
Verloskundige praktijk "Het Klavertje" Raadhuisstraat 2D, 5131 AL Alphen (Nl) 0031/13.508.27.73 ABCEGJKL (+ voor- lichtingsavond werkwijze)
Linda Van Beek Baarle-Hertog (
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Verklaring van de gebruikte codes
A Raadpleging rond fertiliteit en familieplanning
B Zwangerschapscursussen in groep of individueel (vb.:voorbereidingsreeks op de bevalling, prenataal zwemmen, haptonomie, enz...)
C Zwangerschapsraadpleging met advies rond voeding, hygiëne en voorbereiding op de bevalling
D Volgen van een risico-zwangerschap ten huize van de zwangere vrouw op voorschrift van de gynaecoloog
E Begeleiding bij miskraam
F Volgen van de arbeid thuis bij een geplande ziekenhuisbevalling
G Thuisbevalling
H Bevalling uitgevoerd door een zelfstandige vroedvrouw in een ziekenhuismilieu
I Bevalling uitgevoerd in een geboortecentrum
J Medische verzorging en begeleiding van moeder en kind tijdens de kraamperiode
K Advies voor moeder en kind
L Zes weken onderzoek en advies rond familieplanning
M Postnatale cursussen in groep (vb.: moedergroepen, ouderschapscursus, babymassage, enz...)
Thanks for the long list of contacts. I'm sure it will be very useful.
I also came across this article on childbirth in Belgium this morning.
<a href="http://www.expatica.com/source/site_article.asp?subchannel_id=46&story_id=1437&name=Having+a+baby+in+Belgium" Target="_BLANK">http://www.expatica.com/source/site_articl...+Belgium</a>
I found it very reassuring; it sounds like the system here is good. They also state that the gyno monitors the pregnancy closely and is also present at the birth.
I plan to go to an information evening at the Brussels childbirth Trust next month. In the meantime I will keep my appointment with the doctor this week. I have some medical history which should be noted and I am no longer a spring chicken. Over 35.
I have also not ruled out the possibility of have the baby in Australia. I am only in my 6th week so I have plenty of time to think things through and make my decisions.
I also came across this article on childbirth in Belgium this morning.
<a href="http://www.expatica.com/source/site_article.asp?subchannel_id=46&story_id=1437&name=Having+a+baby+in+Belgium" Target="_BLANK">http://www.expatica.com/source/site_articl...+Belgium</a>
I found it very reassuring; it sounds like the system here is good. They also state that the gyno monitors the pregnancy closely and is also present at the birth.
I plan to go to an information evening at the Brussels childbirth Trust next month. In the meantime I will keep my appointment with the doctor this week. I have some medical history which should be noted and I am no longer a spring chicken. Over 35.
I have also not ruled out the possibility of have the baby in Australia. I am only in my 6th week so I have plenty of time to think things through and make my decisions.
My advice to you is to contact Lieve Huybrechts on this list. She has a unique relationship with an OB in Antwerp that is very supportive of having your midwife involved throughout the entire prenatal and birth process. If you choose to deliver at the hospital, she is allowed to be present and has privileges there. Few midwives in Belgium have this relationship with an OB. Most OBs are unsupportive of home births in Belgium and do not allow a mother's midwife to participate in the birth at all if she chooses to deliver in the hospital. The contrast here, though, in terminology and training for midwives is different from my home US. Midwives in Belgium are trained in "hogeschools" for three years. Your "nurse" on the delivery unit will be a midwife and so will the independent midwife. In the US, all midwives are required to be certified and nurse midwives have Master's degrees in nursing. As a medical professional myself, my advice to you is have both. My Flemish OB had a schedule of visits combined with the midwife. You will get several key visits with your OB and will have screening ultrasounds along the way. I truly respect the advocacy work the above writer is doing, but I have one correction. Independent midwives do much more than deliver babies. Lieve's group, for example, does prenatal classes, breastfeeding education and support, massage, aromatherapy, and spending several hours during your pregnancy answering questions and allaying fears. Your OB has little time for most of these important tasks.
What do you do varv? where are you based? like to know for my database.
I wrote:"I understand your fear but maybe it helps to know midwives are birthing specialists. often they take more time to reassure and inform."
why the correction? or were you referring to another writer?
just interested!
I wrote:"I understand your fear but maybe it helps to know midwives are birthing specialists. often they take more time to reassure and inform."
why the correction? or were you referring to another writer?
just interested!
Thanks again for all the good advice. I will get in touch with her next week and keep you informed.
Hello,
I had my baby in September last year. I saw my gynaecologist every month for an ultrasound and during the last five weeks was at his office every week for a check-up (baby wouldn't turn, of course until the very very end and then was late). I delivered at Sint-Augustinus, the maternity in Antwerp. My doctor was Jozef Vanderheyden. He and his daughter practice in Wilrijk and both speak excellent English. After the birth we were monitored by midwife Christel De Wit (also on the list featured in this topic) who also speaks excellent English. On the whole a great core team to work with. Kudos to Christel and the midwife at the hospital who supported on the route to breastfeeding, which was, to say the least, arduous.
I did prenatal swimming and breathing classes (but did not need them as the birth was induced and I had an epi).
If you need any assistance or have any questions, let me know.
PS - this was my first baby and I'm 34.
I had my baby in September last year. I saw my gynaecologist every month for an ultrasound and during the last five weeks was at his office every week for a check-up (baby wouldn't turn, of course until the very very end and then was late). I delivered at Sint-Augustinus, the maternity in Antwerp. My doctor was Jozef Vanderheyden. He and his daughter practice in Wilrijk and both speak excellent English. After the birth we were monitored by midwife Christel De Wit (also on the list featured in this topic) who also speaks excellent English. On the whole a great core team to work with. Kudos to Christel and the midwife at the hospital who supported on the route to breastfeeding, which was, to say the least, arduous.
I did prenatal swimming and breathing classes (but did not need them as the birth was induced and I had an epi).
If you need any assistance or have any questions, let me know.
PS - this was my first baby and I'm 34.
Its nice to hear a positive experience. I am now in my 8th week. I am being closely monitored by my GP at present and will have my first ultra sound in 4 weeks. I have also chosen Sint-Augustinus as my hospital but will be seeing Dr. Hansen, a female gynaecologist. I have a good feeling about the process here in Belgium. This will also be my first baby and I am 35.
I am suffering from morning sickness quite severely so if you have any tips in that area, I would be very appreciative. Yesterday I couldn't keep anything down, and today doesn't seem to be any better, so far.
I am suffering from morning sickness quite severely so if you have any tips in that area, I would be very appreciative. Yesterday I couldn't keep anything down, and today doesn't seem to be any better, so far.
Hi ozzchic,
regarding Dr. Hansen, I have heard that waiting times can be long and also mitigated responses about her. I myself was recommended Dr. Vanderheyden by three different people and his daughter, who also practices at Sint-Augustinus, is supposed to be an even better ob/gyn, if that is possible. Let me know how Dr. Hansen works out for you. Are you going to appointments at the hospital or in a private practice?
Don't worry, all will go well. Things that you will encounter: triple test (blood test to check for probabibility of Down syndrome around 13/15 weeks), as well as two optional echoes (one around 13 wks and one between 20/22 weeks=structural echo to verify that all the organs of your baby are functioning as they should). I had both, the structural echo was to verify in our case that the congenital heart disease in our family was absent in my baby.
Morning sickness: unfortunately I suffered from morning sickness until 4 months. Managed to contain it though and just soldiered on. It then went away one morning only to be replaced around 32 weeks by massive heartburn (I had a rather large baby). What did work for me was while still lying in bed having some Sultana cookies. Other than that, not moving around too quickly around the morning, lots of small snacks during the day and just riding it out. Rice with fresh ginger also helped.
Just wait until you hear the heartbeat. It's one of the most amazing sounds in the world. Around week 18/19 you'll start feeling a kick here and there. Some things to look forward to when you're feeling sick and tired of that morning sickness.
Can I give you one recommendation: get some good oil for massaging your belly. I used the pregnancy oils by Weleda (available from most pharmacies and healthfood stores). Although I do now have stretch marks (unavoidable due to the size of our babe), they could have been much, much worse.
Our baby will be exactly six months tomorrow <img src="../images/emoticons/ywink.gif">
Don't hesitate to ask questions.
Regards,
regarding Dr. Hansen, I have heard that waiting times can be long and also mitigated responses about her. I myself was recommended Dr. Vanderheyden by three different people and his daughter, who also practices at Sint-Augustinus, is supposed to be an even better ob/gyn, if that is possible. Let me know how Dr. Hansen works out for you. Are you going to appointments at the hospital or in a private practice?
Don't worry, all will go well. Things that you will encounter: triple test (blood test to check for probabibility of Down syndrome around 13/15 weeks), as well as two optional echoes (one around 13 wks and one between 20/22 weeks=structural echo to verify that all the organs of your baby are functioning as they should). I had both, the structural echo was to verify in our case that the congenital heart disease in our family was absent in my baby.
Morning sickness: unfortunately I suffered from morning sickness until 4 months. Managed to contain it though and just soldiered on. It then went away one morning only to be replaced around 32 weeks by massive heartburn (I had a rather large baby). What did work for me was while still lying in bed having some Sultana cookies. Other than that, not moving around too quickly around the morning, lots of small snacks during the day and just riding it out. Rice with fresh ginger also helped.
Just wait until you hear the heartbeat. It's one of the most amazing sounds in the world. Around week 18/19 you'll start feeling a kick here and there. Some things to look forward to when you're feeling sick and tired of that morning sickness.
Can I give you one recommendation: get some good oil for massaging your belly. I used the pregnancy oils by Weleda (available from most pharmacies and healthfood stores). Although I do now have stretch marks (unavoidable due to the size of our babe), they could have been much, much worse.
Our baby will be exactly six months tomorrow <img src="../images/emoticons/ywink.gif">
Don't hesitate to ask questions.
Regards,
Interesting you say that about Dr. Hansen. I had trouble getting an appointment 6 weeks in advance. I will be seeing her in her private practice as getting an appointment at the hospital with her was impossible. I also found her receptionist in the practice rather rude. I think I will check out your Dr. or his daughter as a backup.
Its nice to hear about the good things that will come, when I'm feeling so poorly at the moment. It's also good to know that so many tests are standard here.
Congratulations on your baby. Where are you from anyway? Are you still in Antwerp?
Its nice to hear about the good things that will come, when I'm feeling so poorly at the moment. It's also good to know that so many tests are standard here.
Congratulations on your baby. Where are you from anyway? Are you still in Antwerp?
Hi,
What I liked about my OB/gyn was that he's always there for you. I had a bit of a scare at week 19 - called at 9 PM (he'd just finished working, was in the middle of dinner, called me in anyway, had me on the monitor for an hour). At week 39 I thought I was in labour (you always think you are in labour LOL except when you actually are) and he was at the hospital and came to check if everything was allright. Their life is delivering babies (and the more complex the case the more they love you LOL). They'll always fit you in (and after your first appointment you go home with a list of next appointments). What's nice is that his office is located right behind the corner of the hospital (Beukenlaan - easy parking - always cool for a walk in the park in the summer afterwards). I know I am promoting him, but I felt that he is so reliable (although I need to warn you, he is cool and collected. If you're looking for a 'supporting and cheering on' kind of ob/gyn, he is not your guy). My labour was long and hard (19 hours) and he came in several times to check but never looked worried. When our daughter came out and developed breathing difficulties he just remained confident that all would be well.
The number is : 03/828 78 96 (just call and get an appointment if I were you).
I'm Belgo/British living with an American. Live on the fringe of Antwerp.
<img src="../images/emoticons/ysmile.gif">
What I liked about my OB/gyn was that he's always there for you. I had a bit of a scare at week 19 - called at 9 PM (he'd just finished working, was in the middle of dinner, called me in anyway, had me on the monitor for an hour). At week 39 I thought I was in labour (you always think you are in labour LOL except when you actually are) and he was at the hospital and came to check if everything was allright. Their life is delivering babies (and the more complex the case the more they love you LOL). They'll always fit you in (and after your first appointment you go home with a list of next appointments). What's nice is that his office is located right behind the corner of the hospital (Beukenlaan - easy parking - always cool for a walk in the park in the summer afterwards). I know I am promoting him, but I felt that he is so reliable (although I need to warn you, he is cool and collected. If you're looking for a 'supporting and cheering on' kind of ob/gyn, he is not your guy). My labour was long and hard (19 hours) and he came in several times to check but never looked worried. When our daughter came out and developed breathing difficulties he just remained confident that all would be well.
The number is : 03/828 78 96 (just call and get an appointment if I were you).
I'm Belgo/British living with an American. Live on the fringe of Antwerp.
<img src="../images/emoticons/ysmile.gif">
Thanks for all the info. I just made an appointment with Tina Vanderheyden, Franz's daughter. Your doctor was booked out into April, and I like the thought of a female doctor. I let you know how things go.
hey ozzchic,
Great! I hope everything works out well. Tina worked in South Africa for some time. She's a great doctor. Will keep my fingers crossed for you.
<img src="../images/emoticons/ywink.gif">
Great! I hope everything works out well. Tina worked in South Africa for some time. She's a great doctor. Will keep my fingers crossed for you.
<img src="../images/emoticons/ywink.gif">
hey ozzchic,
Great! I hope everything works out well. Tina worked in South Africa for some time. She's a great doctor. Will keep my fingers crossed for you.
<img src="../images/emoticons/ywink.gif">
Great! I hope everything works out well. Tina worked in South Africa for some time. She's a great doctor. Will keep my fingers crossed for you.
<img src="../images/emoticons/ywink.gif">
Hi Fleurie, if you are still out there:
I thought I would keep you posted after all the good advice you gave me some months ago.
Unfortunatly I lost the first pregnancy at 12 weeks. Thanks to your tips on gynocologists, I was very well looked after both by Tina Vanderheyden and Sint Augustinus.
Now I am 18 weeks pregnant again and all is going well. Looking forward to the first kick!
How are things going for you and baby? Would be nice to hear from you.
Regards,
lisa
I thought I would keep you posted after all the good advice you gave me some months ago.
Unfortunatly I lost the first pregnancy at 12 weeks. Thanks to your tips on gynocologists, I was very well looked after both by Tina Vanderheyden and Sint Augustinus.
Now I am 18 weeks pregnant again and all is going well. Looking forward to the first kick!
How are things going for you and baby? Would be nice to hear from you.
Regards,
lisa
Hey ozzchic,
Sorry to hear that but nice to know all is going well with this pregnancy. Will keep my fingers crossed, although since you're almost halfway there, you must be feeling more confident. First kick should be soon, eh? Did you feel any bubbling yet (like a little fish inside of you)?
We've had a harrowing 2005, with our little girl having had almost every virus on the market (including adenovirus, which had her in hospital over the new year, only two days before our move, eeek). We moved yesterday and now live in Antwerp again. We were not sure whether the house, which had a high relative humidity level and thus probably fungus spores in the air, wasn't a cause. Our new house is dry, old (1900), so we're hoping that the rest of 2006 will only see her improving healthwise. I don't know if you're thinking of sending your baby to daycare down the road. Be aware that you almost have to sign up as soon as you're pregnant. Most daycare centres won't accept any newbies until January 2007. We've found a real nice daycare in the centre of Antwerp, but have to been asked to wait for a month by our paediatrician so that our girl can gain weight once again and pack some reserves for the next onslaught of illness... Hope next winter will not be so brutal.
Anyway signing off, I was just testing the web connection to see whether it worked properly.
Regards and keep me posted!
PS - remember that the old adage of you can eat anything you want during your pregnancy is not true... chocolate binges are out <img src="../images/emoticons/ywink.gif">
Sorry to hear that but nice to know all is going well with this pregnancy. Will keep my fingers crossed, although since you're almost halfway there, you must be feeling more confident. First kick should be soon, eh? Did you feel any bubbling yet (like a little fish inside of you)?
We've had a harrowing 2005, with our little girl having had almost every virus on the market (including adenovirus, which had her in hospital over the new year, only two days before our move, eeek). We moved yesterday and now live in Antwerp again. We were not sure whether the house, which had a high relative humidity level and thus probably fungus spores in the air, wasn't a cause. Our new house is dry, old (1900), so we're hoping that the rest of 2006 will only see her improving healthwise. I don't know if you're thinking of sending your baby to daycare down the road. Be aware that you almost have to sign up as soon as you're pregnant. Most daycare centres won't accept any newbies until January 2007. We've found a real nice daycare in the centre of Antwerp, but have to been asked to wait for a month by our paediatrician so that our girl can gain weight once again and pack some reserves for the next onslaught of illness... Hope next winter will not be so brutal.
Anyway signing off, I was just testing the web connection to see whether it worked properly.
Regards and keep me posted!
PS - remember that the old adage of you can eat anything you want during your pregnancy is not true... chocolate binges are out <img src="../images/emoticons/ywink.gif">
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