kraambed

Kraambed, literally “birth bed” in Dutch, is a hospital bed used in maternity care during labor and delivery. It is commonly found in obstetric units, maternity wards, and birthing centers in the Netherlands and other Dutch-speaking regions. The kraambed is designed to support a range of labor positions and to facilitate care by clinicians while prioritizing patient safety and comfort.

Most kraambeds are adjustable: the head and foot sections can be raised or lowered, the overall height can be changed, and the bed can be tilted or rotated to accommodate different birthing positions. The mattress is typically easy to clean and designed to reduce the risk of pressure injuries. Side rails may be present to assist with transfers and to prevent falls, and the bed usually includes space for monitoring equipment, IV poles, and infusion stands. Some models allow configurations that cover both labor and postpartum recovery, enabling transitions between positions and easier transfers to other furniture.

Usage: The kraambed is used by midwives, obstetricians, and nursing staff during labor and delivery. It can be moved on wheels to adapt room setup and to align with delivery equipment, and it is designed to be compatible with common obstetric procedures.

See also: Maternity care, Birthing room, Maternity bed, Obstetric equipment.