Q: Who can have an out-of-hospital birth with a Licensed Midwife?
A: People who meet the following criteria may be candidates for an out of hospital birth with a licensed midwife:
Your baby is in a safe position for delivery.
At the time of delivery you are at least 37 0⁄7 weeks and no more than 42 0⁄7 weeks pregnant.
Labor is spontaneous or induced in an outpatient setting.
Q: Can we meet you to see if you would be a good fit for our family?
A: Absolutely, please inquire with us for a free 30 minute consult.
Q: What areas do you serve?
A: We primarily serve the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita Valley, Simi Valley, and surrounding areas. Aren’t sure? Check in with us.
Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: We are NOT in-network providers with any insurance groups, however, some PPO insurance plans will offer reimbursement to cover midwifery care and out of hospital birth. Health sharing groups such as Samaritan Ministries and Medi-share do offer midwifery care coverage. We are happy to provide some guidance with seeking insurance reimbursement but ultimately filing a claim is the client’s responsibility.
Q: How often will I be seen for care?
A: You will be seen every 4 weeks until you are 28 weeks pregnant then every 2 weeks until you reach 36 weeks gestation at which time you are seen weekly or more until delivery. After delivery you are seen 24-48 hours later, then at 1 week postpartum, 3 weeks postpartum, 6 weeks postpartum and sometimes more if needed. Each appointment allows for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour together. We invite you to bring your family to your appointments if you desire to do so.
Q: If I have been seeing another provider can I still switch into your care?
A: Yes, please inquire for specifics.
Q: Do you bring more than fairy dust to my delivery?
A: YES! As licensed midwives we bring a birth bag equipped with the tools, supplies and medications needed to manage your delivery, including but not limited to: Oxygen, resuscitation equipment, I.V. fluids, antibiotics, anti-hemorrhagic medications, dopplers to monitor the baby’s heart, blood pressure cuff, electronic medical chart, vitamin k, urinary catheters, as well as other tools.
Q: Can you administer an epidural for pain relief at home?
A: No, pharmaceutical pain management requires a setting that can offer an emergency surgical birth should the baby become distressed from the medicine. Most of our clients are educated about what normal birth looks like and cope beautifully with the support they receive.
Q: Do you do VBACs at home?
A:Yes! VBACs (vaginal birth after cesarean) are some of our favorite births! We will review your history and consult as needed to ensure you are a good candidate for a vbac.
Q: What are my options for out of hospital birth?
A: Out of hospital birth with a trained and licensed midwife is statistically the safest place for you to give birth. we are happy to offer home birth and birth center births. Not sure which one is right for you? Give us a call!
