simple-custom-post-order domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /var/www/vhosts/amstermam.nl/httpdocs/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6114wp-migrate-db domain was triggered too early. This is usually an indicator for some code in the plugin or theme running too early. Translations should be loaded at the init action or later. Please see Debugging in WordPress for more information. (This message was added in version 6.7.0.) in /var/www/vhosts/amstermam.nl/httpdocs/wp-includes/functions.php on line 6114You're on maternity leave, the birth is approaching, and the final stages are here. Soon, you'll become a family, or your family will grow.
There's a good chance it's all getting a bit heavier now. Lower back pain, insomnia, frequent urination, swelling, and Braxton Hicks contractions are common. Take a nap during the day to recover and switch to a slower pace.
Contact your midwife or doctor when:
A child who doesn't feel well may lie still to conserve energy. That's why we ask at every check-up if the baby is moving well, and we want you to call us if you have any doubts about whether the baby is moving enough.
In the final weeks of pregnancy, the movements of the baby may change slightly. It's getting more cramped inside, so movements may become smaller and easier to miss. Additionally, the baby's sleep pattern changes, leading to longer breaks between vigorous movements. Fortunately, being on maternity leave often results in more energy left for the baby and more attention to everything you feel. If you're worried about your baby's condition due to reduced movements, always contact your midwife or doctor.
If you're unsure whether your baby is moving enough, do the following: take a moment to rest (if you're not already at home), eat something sweet. Find a relaxed position, such as lying on the couch, bed, or in the bath, and focus your attention on the baby. Place your hands on your belly to feel the movements from the outside.
A pregnancy is considered full term when delivery occurs between 37 and 42 weeks. Your due date is calculated as 40 weeks into your pregnancy. A pregnancy lasting 42 weeks or longer is termed 'post-term'. Fortunately, 95-98% of women give birth before that time.
After 42 weeks, the risk of complications increases. The placenta may have reached its maximum lifespan and may function less effectively. This can lead to decreased amniotic fluid, reduced nutrient supply to the baby, and an increased likelihood of fetal distress. Due to these escalating risks, we advise that from 42 weeks onwards, you give birth under the supervision of an obstetrician. The obstetrician will aim to induce labor.
If you are more than 41 weeks pregnant, we will monitor you more frequently. This is to keep a close watch on you and your baby, and also to try to induce labor before 42 weeks using 'membrane sweeping'. During an internal examination, we check if there is any cervical dilation. If dilation is present, we attempt to separate the membranes from the cervix. We do not break the membranes during this procedure. Membrane sweeping releases prostaglandins, a hormone that helps soften the cervix and may trigger contractions.
There is often debate about what is best for a mother and child between 41 and 42 weeks. Some obstetricians believe in inducing labor at 41 weeks, while others advocate for a more conservative approach. Research to date has not provided definitive answers on the best course of action. As a result, different hospitals may manage post-term pregnancies differently, which can be confusing and raise questions. Feel free to discuss these concerns with your midwife!
Prepare a packed bag with items for the hospital. Even if you plan to give birth at home, it's handy to have it ready in case you unexpectedly need to go to the hospital. See 'I'm in labor' for what you can pack for the hospital.
Tip: Place a note by the bag listing the last items to be packed, such as phone chargers. This way, your partner can quickly gather the final items when the time comes.
Look beyond childbirth and discuss together how you envision the postpartum period and life with a child.
Do you have some change ready in case she goes into labor and you need a coin for a wheelchair?
Pack a hospital bag, even if you plan to give birth at home.
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Contact us! We are available by phone every day until 1:00 PM, and by email all day.
Reimbursements from basic insurance
With which insurances do you have a contract?
Walk-in consultations
How do I prepare for breastfeeding?
When can I opt for the NIPT (prenatal test)?
Zorgplan / Care Plan
Which pregnancy course do you recommend?
How can my partner acknowledge the baby?
What happens during the follow-up appointments?
What happens during the first appointment with the midwife?
You are welcome to join our online Meet-Up, led by one of our midwives. This is an opportunity to familiarize yourself with our approach and practice.
Register now without obligation within 2 minutes, and receive a response within one working day!
