Doula Bloemendaal: support during your pregnancy and birth
Hello, I’m Iris. A down-to-earth and committed doula, with a gentle and sensitive side. I believe it’s important that you feel seen, heard and supported throughout your pregnancy, birth and postpartum period.
My role is to stand by your side, with attention for what you need, practical where that helps, and with room for your feelings, questions and intuition. Together with your partner, we create an environment in which you feel safe and secure, giving you the space to give birth in the way that suits you.
What is a doula?
A doula is someone who offers emotional, physical and informative support during one of the most special and intense periods of your life. As a doula, I help you stay in control and feel safe, whatever the circumstances. My guidance is fully tailored to your unique wishes and needs. Curious exactly what a doula does and doesn’t do? Read here what a doula is
Why choose doula Iris in Bloemendaal?
Bloemendaal is right around the corner, which means I can simply cycle over to you! The municipality of Bloemendaal offers plenty of maternity care options, but as a doula I offer something unique: a trusted, continuous presence that radiates calm and confidence. My approach combines a down-to-earth attitude with a sensitive and gentle side, so you can focus fully on your birth.
I offer a tailored approach and adapt my support completely to your personal needs and expectations. My goal is to help you relax, reduce your anxieties, and support you in making choices that suit you. Whether you give birth at home or in the hospital, I’m by your side.
With my experience and expertise, I make sure that you and your partner work together towards a positive birth experience. Together we create a loving bubble in which you feel safe and heard.
I always prefer to do the free introductory meeting in person, and I’m happy to travel for it, wherever you live.
I also work closely together with midwives. In my experience, they really appreciate having a doula present during the birth. It’s a genuine win-win for you, your partner, the midwife, and me.
Healthcare in and around Bloemendaal
Bloemendaal doesn’t have its own hospital; for giving birth, residents usually go to Spaarne Gasthuis, location Haarlem-Zuid (Vrouw & Kindcentrum), or to Rode Kruis Ziekenhuis in Beverwijk. For primary care there are midwifery practices in Haarlem that explicitly serve Bloemendaal, including Luna Verloskundigen, Verloskundigenpraktijk Kleverpark and Verloskundigenpraktijk Bolwerk.
Both Spaarne Gasthuis and Rode Kruis Ziekenhuis use an inflatable birthing pool for water births.
My tip: attend the information evening about giving birth at the hospital near you. These are usually held monthly. You’ll get the chance to take a look at the delivery rooms, hear more about the different forms of medical pain relief the hospital offers, and get a feel for what to expect when you give birth there. That can help you go into the hospital with a bit more confidence and a sense of familiarity.
Coverage area
Bloemendaal is less than 2 kilometres from Haarlem, one of the closest places in my service area. Feel free to book a free introductory chat directly. Curious what a doula costs or how to choose the right one for you? Also read what a doula costs in the Netherlands and how to choose the right doula.
In Bloemendaal for (expecting) parents
Bloemendaal itself doesn’t have a confirmed mama café; the nearest options are in Haarlem, such as Babycafé Haarlem and pregnancy yoga at, among others, Glow Yogastudio or Casa Yoga. Want to prepare well in advance? You can take my pregnancy course at my cosy practice in Haarlem regardless. And with the free e-book you can already take the first steps.
Frequently asked questions
Do you also support a water birth at Spaarne Gasthuis Haarlem-Zuid? Yes, I’m happy to support a water birth, just like any other way of giving birth.
Are you quick to reach a birth in Bloemendaal? Yes. I generally allow for a travel time of 1.5 hours, but Bloemendaal is right next to Haarlem, so I’m usually there much faster!
Curious about other parents’ experiences? Take a look at the stories from happy clients.
How I work
Pregnancy
During your pregnancy we meet several times to get to know each other well, so you both become fully comfortable with my presence. In 2 to 4 extensive, personal preparatory conversations of about 2 hours each (depending on the package you choose), I make sure you’re well informed and prepared for the birth. You’ll know what options are available in different situations, so you can make your own choices. Together we also draw up your birth plan, and I guide you in expanding your body awareness through massage, various relaxation exercises and practising different birthing positions. You’ll experience how you relax best and ‘settle into’ your body, which builds trust in your own body and strengthens the bond with your baby.
Birth
From 38 weeks until your baby is born, I’m available by phone 24/7. I come as soon as labour begins and you feel ready to have me there. During your birth I offer loving, gentle support, helping you through contractions, listening, giving massage and reassurance. I support your partner too, so you can experience the birth together. You’re welcome to use my birthing ball and Elle TENS free of charge. I stay for around 2 hours after the birth, usually until you’ve showered and are settled in a clean bed with your baby in your arms.
Postpartum period
After the birth we stay in touch, and I’m available for questions and advice for around 6 weeks. I’d love to receive the occasional photo and update on how you’re all doing, but there’s no obligation at all. Once you’re ready, we round things off with a postpartum visit to look back on the birth together.
Extra options
This package can be extended with additional support, such as more preparatory conversations or exercises, massages, or joining you for a visit to your midwife or obstetrician.
Together as a team
Your partner plays an important role, and I help them fulfil that role with confidence. Birth is a shared experience, and it’s essential that you both feel supported and involved. Your partner’s role can range from emotional support to practical help during contractions. Together we create an environment where you both feel safe and heard, so you can experience this special event together in a way that suits you. Together we discuss:
- Your fears, expectations and wishes, to create clarity and confidence.
- How your partner can best support you during the birth, so they know what to do and when.
- Practical techniques such as breathing exercises and massage, so your partner can actively contribute.
- Handling unexpected situations, and how to stay flexible and calm together as a team.
By being well prepared together, you form a strong team that faces the birth with confidence.