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I'm pregnant, now what?

I'm pregnant. Now what?

A walk in the park or a steep hill to climb? We will support you every step of the way.

So you won't miss a single advantage during this special era of your life.

Request your maternity allowance

The first trimester of your pregnancy

Trimester 1: from 1 week to 12 weeks pregnant

I am 1 to 12 weeks pregnant, what can I expect?

The hardest and most exciting thing about this period, is that you haven't told friends or family yet because there is still a lot of uncertainty. And, although it may not feel like it yet, your body is changing to make room for your little sprout. Consequently, this phase requires a lot of energy. It is normal to experience some pregnancy ailments. Above all, be kind to yourself and listen to your body.

Schedule an appointment with your gynaecologist for the 8-week ultrasound.
The 8-week ultrasound is the first ultrasound in your pregnancy. This check-up is the first 100% confirmation that you are pregnant! The gynaecologist checks that everything is in order and calculates your delivery date.
Check your insurance before giving birth.
Feel nice and safe by covering yourself, in case anything goes other than planned. Feel free to ask your health insurance company for advice.
Find a nursery or crèche in your area.
This surprises most first-time parents because it still seems far away! Your baby is not here yet, and you already have to plan to drop it off. This does not feel natural. But, childcare or nurseries in Belgium are overcrowded. So start looking for a nursery or crèche near you early.

Request your maternity allowance

The second trimester of your pregnancy

Trimester 2: from 13 weeks to 20 weeks pregnant

I am 13 to 20 weeks pregnant, what can I expect?

Your baby is growing and so are your dreams for the future. At this stage, you share the news with family and friends. All this enthusiasm can sometimes overwhelm you. So take your time to plan everything your way. And: above all, do not let yourself be influenced by what others tell you what to think and feel.

Trimester 2: from 13 weeks to 20 weeks pregnant, what do I put in place?

Apply for your maternity allowance.
You want the very best for your child. Therefore, apply for your maternity allowance (or former birth premium). This amount is a financial boost for when your baby has just arrived. The exact amount depends on your region:

In Flanders it is € 1.238,78 per child.
In Wallonia it is € 1.340,90 per child.
In Brussels it is € 1.340,90 for a first child and € [amount_start_bxl] for each subsequent child

Arrange your maternity leave or birth leave through your health insurance fund.
Your work should preferably be prepared for your absence. Tell them the good news so you can request your maternity leave or birth leave in time. Don't worry about this: in Belgium you are well protected as an expectant mother.

Apply for your maternity care or maternity assistance.
Prepare yourself well for what is to come and get support from maternity care or maternity help. They will help you with breastfeeding, cooking a pot or ironing when you would be too tired Most health insurance funds reimburse 30h for maternity care or maternity help: so no reason not to make it easier on yourself.

More information on the maternity allowance

The third trimester of your pregnancy

Trimester 3: from 21 weeks to 40 weeks pregnant

I am 21 to 40 weeks pregnant: what can I expect?

Your enthusiasm gives way to impatience ... because meeting your little one is now really close. This is the time to make the final preparations: draw up your birth plan, prepare your delivery suitcase or flight bag and finalise the baby's room details. This will allow you to leave for the hospital in peace and quiet.

Trimester 3: from 21 weeks to 40 weeks pregnant, what do I put in place?

Gentle reminder: apply for your maternity allowance.

You want the very best for your child. Therefore, apply for your maternity allowance (or former birth premium). This amount is a financial boost for when your baby has just arrived. The exact amount depends on your region:

In Flanders it is € 1.238,78 per child.
In Wallonia it is € 1.340,90 per child.
In Brussels it is € 1.340,90 for a first child and € [amount_start_bxl] for each subsequent child

Prepare your emergency suitcase or flight bag.

A well-prepared suitcase or flight bag ensures a pleasant stay at the maternity unit. Discover all our tips on what's best to pack here.

And after giving birth?

Pssst... after childbirth, we are here for you.

The saying goes: "It takes a village to raise a child" for a reason. On this site you can read all the tips on parenting: from bottle feeding and breastfeeding to self-care after pregnancy.

Calculate your monthly basic amount

Use our calculator to work out the amount of child benefit you'll receive for your family, based on the region you live in and the date of birth of your child(ren).