I'm Femke Karels, a midwife and sonographer, and I can also provide you with comprehensive information about contraception. After graduating in 2003, I immediately began my journey at Bergweg and have been here ever since. We have a fantastic team, and I combine my dedication to care with a clear, personalized approach tailored to you. With a strong focus on honest and straightforward information, I support you throughout your pregnancy and delivery. I'm here wholeheartedly for you and your partner, and I still deeply enjoy guiding you on your path to parenthood. I'm also a proud mother of a daughter and two sons.
Our Team
We are a passionate team of midwives, dedicated to providing the best, most engaged, and accessible care. For 15 years, we have joyfully worked together as one team. Every midwife on our team has at least 18 years of experience—and you can truly feel the difference! Below you'll first see our five practice owners, followed by our indispensable colleagues.

Esther van der Ham
I'm Esther van der Ham, an experienced midwife and sonographer. I've been working for nearly 25 years at Verloskundig Centrum Bergweg, where we have a wonderful, closely-knit team that truly works in harmony. With warmth and calm, I guide you through every step of your delivery. My personal approach and commitment ensure that you feel comfortable at every stage of your pregnancy. In addition to my professional work, I’m also a proud mother to a daughter and a son.
Wahiba Yousfi
I'm Wahiba Yousfi, a midwife and sonographer. I've been practicing as a midwife since 2005 and have been working at Bergweg since 2014. My background and open-minded approach make my care particularly valuable for our diverse clientele. I speak Dutch, English, and Arabic fluently, and I always take your personal situation into account to ensure you feel heard and supported throughout your pregnancy.
For years, I commuted between Brabant and Rotterdam, but in 2021 I made a permanent move to Rotterdam to better balance my work and family life. I’m also a proud mother of two daughters and three sons.


Femke Karels
Ligia Teixeira
I'm Ligia Teixeira, a midwife and sonographer. I bring my many years of experience to caring for you, thinking along with you and guiding you in a personalized and professional way throughout your pregnancy and postpartum period—with a touch of humor when needed. With me, you're guaranteed care that's tailored to your needs and a compassionate ear to listen. I've been part of the Bergweg team for over 25 years and continue to work with our wonderful team with great joy.
I’m also the proud mother of a daughter.


Astrid van der Linden
I'm Astrid van der Linden, a midwife, babywearing consultant, and lactation consultant. With me, you're in the right place for guidance during your pregnancy and postpartum period—and for all your breastfeeding questions. My clear advice and professional, practical support offer you a solid foundation to rely on. I often continue to be available long after the birth to assist you with breastfeeding, a truly valuable extra in our practice.
I've been part of this practice since 1995, and during labor, I regularly use my massage techniques to help support you. I'm also a proud mother of two wonderful daughters.

Sandra van Vuuren
Meticulous, experienced. Fun fact: she can paint and sculpt beautifully.

Vusalja Huseynova
Multilingual (Dutch, English, Turkish, Russian, Azerbaijani), calm and decisive.

Eveline van der Leeuw
Clear and direct with a warm, caring touch—she also plays a vital role in midwifery management in the region.

Annemieke Arink
Enthusiastic, always with a kind word for everyone, and a sun lover

Ruth Mauritz
Organized, engaged, practical, and kind.

Nicoline Cnossen
She is unmistakably maternal—clear, affectionate, and kind—and at 66, she remains tireless and fit.
The Practice

