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Frequently Asked
Questions Is Homebirth safe? Studies show that homebirth is as safe if not safer than hospital birth when attended by a trained professional. Midwives have been trained to recognize variations in normal childbirth and take extra time to evaluate the mother and baby to ensure that they are safe and healthy. What if I develop a complication during my pregnancy? If a complication occurs, such as high blood pressure or urinary tract infection, a referral will be made to a physician for further evaluation. What about laboratory blood tests? Will I need to see a doctor? The Family Birth Center, LLC provides laboratory services through the Texas Department of Health and/or Quest Diagnostics. You will be offered the same tests at home as you would be in your physician’s office. It is not necessary to see a physician in order to have these tests performed. Where and when will I be seen for my examinations? Prenatal appointments are done every month in the beginning and usually last an hour. Appointments are held in the birthing center. At 36 weeks a home visit will be done. Will my Health Insurance pay for a midwife? This depends, but most do. Insurance companies are starting to come around and realize that midwifery care actually saves them a ton of money. Because your risk of costly obstetrical procedures are proven to be lower at home, insurance companies end up paying only a fraction of what they would have for a hospital birth. With insurance you can expect to pay your out-of-network deductible and the baby’s out-of-network deductible if applicable by your 36th week appointment. The remaining fees will be billed to your insurance company after the birth. Any amount paid is collected as a deposit towards your account. What will it cost me to use a midwife? Without insurance you will pay $2700 for complete maternity care. I offer very flexible payment plans and will work with each family to make these services financially feasible. Most clients pay around $300 per month. Payments may be made by cash, check, credit card, or agreed upon trade. How did you become a midwife and what is your experience? I began my training in 2002 after my first homebirth. I graduated after 2 years from The Association of Texas Midwives education program in which I completed an informative course based on standards set forth by the National Association of Registered Midwives and the Texas Department Health. I also completed a formal apprenticeship under 2 different midwives, giving me a range of differences in practice style. During my training I attended 40 births and did over 100 prenatal, postpartum, and newborn examinations. In August of 2004, I sat for the NARM, an 8 hour nationally recognized examination. I have also completed and stay current with CPR and Neonatal Resuscitation training. Over the past five years I have had the privilege of working with over 100 expecting families. References are available as needed. Who can I expect to attend my birth? You always have the last word in attendance at your birth, but I prefer to have at least 1 assistant. Family members and children are always welcome and included as much as possible. I do not want an episiotomy, how do you help prevent lacerations? Most midwives pride themselves on their abilities to prevent tears. Simple techniques such as; perineal support, warm compresses, perineal massage, warm oil, and slow, easy delivery of the head; work wonders to protect the perineum. I do not routinely cut episiotomies. In my training I have only seen the true need once! What if something goes wrong during labor or delivery? There are some basic complications that can occur during labor and delivery. It is important for parents to understand that as a midwife I am trained to recognize and deal with these quickly should they arise. It is my goal to deliver healthy, happy babies to healthy, happy moms. If a complication cannot be corrected at home a transport to the hospital would be necessary. What do you do with the mess? This may seem like a silly question to some, but I am asked this almost every time I interview with a family-usually by the dad. We leave the house as clean if not cleaner than when we got there. We dispose of trash and clean the birth room so that Mom is able to rest in comfort. I can guarantee you; we will not leave you with a mess. What kinds of supplies will I need? At your initial exam you will be given a list of supplies. These are very basic things found in most homes, such as towels, washcloths, and a crock pot. Towards the last few weeks of pregnancy you will need to buy your supply kit for approximately $55.00. This kit will have everything you need to have a comfortable birth. I have heard of babies being born into water, is this safe? I personally love waterbirth, and if you are one that heads to the tub when you are sick or have a tummy ache, then this may be for you. Waterbirth has been proven to be safe for both the mother and baby. If you are interested in reading more about this, please ask. I have a detailed birth plan, how will my wishes be accommodated? One of the best parts about using a midwife is the trust that your wishes will be heard. I will go to great lengths to be certain that we did everything possible to give you the birth of your dreams. You don’t have to worry about your plan being ignored at home, because we will make your birth all about you. How will I get a birth certificate and social security card? I will file your baby’s birth certificate and can request a social security number if desired within 5 days of the birth. Your baby’s social security card will be mailed to your address. To receive a copy of your baby’s birth certificate you will need to request a copy along with a minimal fee ($24) from the Bureau of Vital Statistics. Where can I get more information about the things that you have written about? You are always welcome to call or email me if you have further questions. Pregnancy and childbirth are beautiful times that bring about a great sense of wonder. I own a pretty thorough lending library and offer clients tons of resources. I also recommend searching the Internet for the latest on homebirth.
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