Maaike Rijnsburger

Congratulations! I am Maaike Rijnsburger, married and mother of two sons. I guide couples and singles in Utrecht and the surrounding area, and I would love to help you bring out the best in yourself!

You are capable of more than you think During three prenatal meetings at your home, we discuss your expectations for childbirth. What do you think you’re good at, and what are you apprehensive about? What options are available, and how can you maintain control? Because during birth, you don’t have to feel dependent on your caregivers. You’re not sick—you’re having a baby! Your body has safely held a baby in your belly for 9 months, and somewhere between weeks 37 and 42, it decides entirely on its own that the baby can come out. Your body handles it all: the opening of the cervix, the contractions of the uterus, and even the baby helps by turning as they are born.

How do you stay connected to your body and this process, so you’re not overwhelmed by thoughts like, ‘These contractions are awful,’ but instead find new energy by focusing on the baby who’s on their way? Because that’s the real reason you’re feeling this way! All in all, it’s a down-to-earth approach: Yes, it hurts, but yes, you’re capable of more than you think.

Additional topics that may be discussed during the prenatal meetings include: Birth plan, breathing techniques, relaxation exercises, communication with caregivers, the progression of labor, birth ball, rebozo, TENS, Spinning Babies and much more.

I’ll stay with you When labour begins, I’ll come to you once you’re deep into your labor rhythm or when you’re no longer able to stay relaxed and breathe calmly. If induction is needed, I’ll be there from the moment your waters are broken. And then I’ll stay. Even if we move from home to the hospital. Even if it becomes medical. Even if it turns out to be a long labour.

I’ll stay with you until after the baby is born. During your labour, I’ll help you stay relaxed and breathe calmly, encourage you when you’re at risk of losing confidence, massage your back, and help you get the right information so you’re well aware of your options when something is suggested.

I’ll step in for your (birth) partner so they can take a bathroom break or make a sandwich, allowing them to be fully present for you again. In other words, it’s a beautiful collaboration between you, your birth partner, and myself. This way, even if things don’t go as expected, you can still look back on the experience positively.

Bring out the best in yourself. Contact me for a non-binding introductory meeting at your home, and explore with me how you can bring out the best in yourself and what I can do for you or both of you during childbirth. Perhaps we'll speak soon!

My expertise is: Trust. Listening. Rest. Humor. Photography. Single expecting mothers.