Term, 13-week, 20-week and more. All ultrasounds explained one by one — what they show, when they happen, and whether they’re covered.
During a standard pregnancy in the Netherlands you’re offered four ultrasounds: the term scan, the 13-week ultrasound, the 20-week ultrasound, and (on indication) a position scan around 36 weeks. The standard scans are fully covered by Dutch basic insurance, with no excess.
The first ultrasound, performed around 10–12 weeks. It confirms the pregnancy, establishes the due date, and checks whether there is one baby or more. The due date from this scan replaces any date based on the last period — the ultrasound is the more accurate measure.
This early screening scan looks for physical anomalies in the baby. It’s currently part of a national research study (IMITAS). Participation is voluntary — you discuss it in your counselling session.
The best-known scan: a detailed examination of your baby’s anatomy. The sonographer looks at the brain, heart, kidneys, spine, organs and limbs. This is also when many couples find out the baby’s sex — if they want to know.
An extra scan around 36 weeks to check the baby’s position before birth. This scan is only done on indication or in consultation with the midwife — not as standard. If your baby is in breech position, we’ll discuss the options.
The NIPT is a blood test on you, not an ultrasound — but it’s part of prenatal screening. It looks at the baby’s DNA from your blood to screen for Down, Edwards and Patau syndromes. The NIPT costs €175 (subsidised by the government).
A pre-ultrasound is a non-medical scan: a calm moment to see your baby with your partner. It is not part of medical care and not a replacement for the screening scans. It’s available from around 8 weeks and is not covered by insurance.
At Femme we do all standard ultrasounds in-house, by certified sonographers. More on our ultrasounds.
Register with Femme — we’ll call you within one working day.
