Are you working and living (temporarily) in the Netherlands and dealing with an unplanned pregnancy? It's likely that you're feeling overwhelmed. You need to make an important decision quite quickly. You have several options. These are available even if you're only living in the Netherlands temporarily.
We are a specialist centre that provides support and information about unplanned pregnancies. We believe you should have access to all the knowledge you need to make the choice that's right for you. This page contains information you can trust that will help you decide.
Raising the child yourself
You can choose to carry your pregnancy to term and raise your child on your own. It's important that you consider your feelings and emotions, your situation (such as housing and the support you can get from others), as well as whether you can afford to raise a child. Fiom can refer you to the services that are right for you.
Abortion
Abortion is a medical procedure that terminates (ends) the pregnancy. There are several types of termination available depending on how far along your pregnancy is. This can be a very difficult decision. Fiom can support you in making it.
Foster care
A foster care placement means your child will live with a foster family. This is often temporary, with the goal being for your child to eventually live with you. You might consider this option if you aren't able to care for your child right now but would like to maintain contact with them. Fiom provides advice and referrals.
Adoption
Adoption means that another family will raise your child. If you place your child for adoption, you will no longer have parental rights. This is a big decision and requires careful thought. You will be given guidance when you are making this decision. Fiom provides free support during the process. Read more about the support we provide or contact us.
Would you like to know more about the available options?
See your options (Dutch page with a translation tool).
Help with making a decision
Online information
Our website contains all the information you need about unplanned pregnancy. You can use it to help you make an informed decision. All the pages can be translated into your preferred language.
Online tools
Our online decision-making module "Pregnant, now what?" can help you work through your options and make a well-informed choice. (Currently only available in Dutch. An English version will be available soon.)
Speak to a counsellor
If you'd prefer to talk to someone about your decision, Fiom can refer you to a counsellor near you. Counselling is provided free of charge and is available in English. Call +31 88 126 4990.
Your rights and responsibilities
Find out more about your rights and responsibilities for each option. This information is about Dutch laws on adoption, abortion and raising your child yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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How far along is my pregnancy?
To calculate how far along in your pregnancy you are, you need to know when your last period was. The time from the first day of your last period until now gives you a rough idea of how many weeks pregnant you are. You can take a pregnancy test as early as the day your period was due to start. Calculate how far along you are here.
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Where can I get an ultrasound?
You can have an ultrasound at a midwife's office, a hospital and, in some cases, your GP surgery. Abortion clinics can also provide ultrasounds.
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Can I contact you anonymously?
Yes, we will still help you if you prefer not to tell us who you are. You can contact Fiom anonymously by phone. You can also fill in the contact form, but you will need to provide your email address.
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I'm pregnant, but it wasn't planned. What are my options?
The options are raising the child yourself, foster care, adoption or abortion. The options available to you specifically depend on how far along your pregnancy is.
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Do I have to tell my employer about the pregnancy?
Until you know what you want to do, you're not required to tell your employer that you're pregnant. If you choose to carry the pregnancy to term, a midwife or your GP can help you with letting your employer know.
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Do I need a referral to go to an abortion clinic?
No, you can call the clinic yourself to make an appointment. If you have Dutch health insurance, appointments at the abortion clinic are free.
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Can I have an abortion anonymously?
Yes, abortions can be performed anonymously at abortion clinics. When you book your appointment with the clinic, let them know you wish to remain anonymous. You won't be able to remain anonymous if you have an abortion performed in a hospital.
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What rights do men have?
According to the Dutch Termination of Pregnancy Act (Wet Afbreking Zwangerschap), men have no legal rights when it comes to decisions about their partner's pregnancy. The law also says that a woman must be able to make her decision freely and carefully. This might make you feel powerless. Read more about the father's role here.
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I'm pregnant as a result of sexual assault. What help is available?
Information about the help you can access is available on our sexual violence page. You can also contact the Sexual Assault Center (Centrum Seksueel Geweld) for further support.
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I'm in a dangerous situation. What can I do?
Help is always available. Even if you feel like nobody can help you. If you're in immediate danger, call 112. You should also call if you've gone into labour. They will make sure you get to the nearest hospital safely. It's important that you and your baby get the medical care you need.
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Are you experiencing domestic violence?
Help is always available. There are several organisations you can turn to. Visit the Fier website or contact your GP.
Contact information
You're not alone. Whatever you decide to do, Fiom is here to help you.
Contact:
Telephone: 088 126 49 90
Email: oz@fiom.nl