The principle that pregnant women can choose where they give birth, at home or in the hospital, is under pressure. Their concern has also been greatly changed by measures against the corona virus.
All non-medically necessary ultrasounds and care have been removed and the maternity period is changing, says the Royal Dutch Organization of Midwives (KNOV). “We do everything we can to ensure that pregnant women can continue to give birth at home and in the hospital. But in some hospitals, non-medical deliveries are excluded from the hospital.”
No more fun ultrasounds
This week pregnant women all over the Netherlands received news from their midwives that their care will change in the near future because of the coronavirus. “Only medically necessary checks still take place in midwifery practice,” explains Schatorje. That means listening to the baby’s heart, measuring blood pressure, and getting out again. “The rest all go by phone. Ultrasound scanners have also stopped the so-called fun ultrasounds.
The same goes for obstetric appointments in the hospital, adds a spokesperson for the Dutch Association of Obstetrics and Gynecology (NVOG). “The obstetrics departments are always open for emergency consultations and deliveries. But there are fewer regular checks.” With these agreements, partners and children are no longer allowed to come to the practice, “says Schatorje.
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