Experts attribute the Netherlands' elevated infant mortality rate to overly cautious approaches by midwives and gynecologists.
The Netherlands ranks among Europe's highest for infant mortality, largely because midwives and gynecologists adopt a hands-off stance during childbirth. Renowned gynecologist and obstetrics professor Gerard Visser highlighted this in today's Volkskrant: "The Dutch midwifery system is outdated. We rely too heavily on nature to take its course."
Visser advocates inducing labor after 41 weeks of pregnancy—rather than waiting until 42—to mitigate risks. He notes the risk of infant death increases at term's end: in the 42nd week, one to two additional babies per 1,000 births do not survive.
Angela Verbeeten, vice president of the obstetricians' association, acknowledges: "The risk of complications rises slightly with waiting." However, she cautions: "Inducing labor often leads to more complications."
The Ministry of Health plans to release recommendations by year's end to address and lower infant mortality in the Netherlands.
