Pregnancy and General Health
Find out about the Dutch attitude to teenagers' health and pregnancy...
Pregnancy
The Netherlands has very low rates of teenage pregnancy compared to many other countries. There is good access to contraceptives, which are free (except condoms which are widely sold and often at discounted prices).
Abortion rates are similarly low. Termination is available on request up to 24 weeks and can be obtained under the national health system free of charge. Before operating, a doctor must see the patient and advise her of the options available, inform her of the risks and if she is under 18 years of age must have parental consent.
Minimal benefits are paid to young unmarried mothers in the Netherlands.
- For issues relating to sexual health, the Rutgers Nisso Group is the national expert group dedicated to promoting sexual and reproductive health. It offers family planning and counselling
- The group also runs local centres for birth control and sexuality known as Rutgershuizen which can offer advice on medical issues including abortion and the morning-after pill
General health
The Juvenile Health Care Centre (Jeugdgezondheidszorg/JGZ) of the Public Health Department (GGD) provides guidance to parents and guardians in The Netherlands about the physical, emotional and psychological development of their children aged 4 to 19 years of age.
- JGZ - Amsterdam
Tel: 020 555 5472 - JGZ - The Hague
Tel: 070 353 7178 / 070 353 7181
Related Information
- Halt provides parenting support programmes for parents of at-risk youth as well as mediation services for teens
- European Youth Portal website from the EU for young people living or considering moving to Europe
- Ministry of Health Welfare and Sports
- Ministry of Education
- Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment - contains details of all relevant legislation
- Dutch Abortion Clinics Foundation (in Dutch) - includes an easy to follow map to find the location of the nearest clinic
- CASA (Centra voor Anticonceptie, Seksualiteit en Abortus) is a national association offering family planning advice
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs - has useful general information
- Dutch Scout Association (in Dutch)