Frequently asked questions
Home-birth is the safer option for low risk families. Multiple studies have shown the safety of home-birth for low-risk parents to be the same (if not safer) than birthing in the hospital. Birth inherently is not free from risk but the midwifery model of care aims to identify problems that may arise before they become emergent. I am trained and skilled in managing birth emergencies and carry the necessary equipment for neonatal resuscitation and postpartum hemorrhages. We know that birth happens best in an undisturbed environment where the birther feels the safest, and for a lot of people this may be their home but for others that may be a birth center or hospital setting. You can read more about the safety of home birth here.
Is Homebirth Safe?
What are the benefits of homebirth?
There are many benefits to home birth but some of the most common include individualized evidence based care, not having to leave the house in labor (this can be disruptive to the labor process), being in your own environment and choosing who is invited into your birth space, focus on the family-baby dyad allowing for the focus to be bonding and connecting with little interruption in the postpartum period.
Is Homebirth messy?
Nope! Your job is to birth your baby, I worry about the mess. I provide plenty of supplies to help keep things clean and make sure that any blood or fluids are cleaned up immediately following the birth. We use things like chux pads and plastic shower curtains to protect your space. The goal is to leave your space as clean, if not cleaner, than I found it. At the 36 week visit, I provide the birth kit full of supplies you would need to keep your space clean.
Do you offer pain medication
No, I do not offer or carry anything that can take away the “pain” of labor. Throughout prenatal visits we talk about the different coping strategies and how to help physically and mentally prepare for physiological birth including adding a doula to the team, exploring hydrotherapy aka waterbirth, taking childbirth education classes, acupressure, position changes, mindset, breathing techniques, essential oils and homeopathy, sterile water injections, TENS unit, etc.
*In the event of needing a vaginal repair, I do carry lidocaine to numb for the repair *
Yes! and I love water births. Warm water can be a great tool for managing the intensity of labor. In fact, I provide an inflatable tub, liner and all supplies at no additional cost with your birth supplies at your 36 week visit.
do you offer waterbirth?
Simply put, Midwives are MEDICAL providers during your pregnancy, birth and postpartum period. Doulas are NON-MEDICAL support but we work really well together. If looking to hire a doula, I have a list of vetted and highly recommended Doulas I can share with you.
What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?
Am I a good canidate for homebirth?
I offer a complimentary consult to discuss your pregnancy and health history to help you decide if h0mebirth is a good option for you. Fill out this form and we will chat!
Is homebirth covered by insurance?
I am out of network with most providers but can provide a superbill for you to submit for potential reimbursement. I use a third party biller (Billing for Littles) to help with insurance questions.
I do accept payments via cash, check, credit card (with 3% fee), Venmo, PayPal and even HSA/FSA payments.
I am also in the process of becoming a Badgercare (Wisconsin Medicaid) Provider and will update as soon as that takes effect.
What about Ultrasounds and Labwork?
I can draw any labwork needed and offer referrals for ultrasounds. You can read more about what is included in midwifery care here.
Do I need to live in a house for a homebirth?
Nope! Plenty of people have birthed in their apartments or rentals. Having basics like heat (in the winter) and running water are essentials but having a clean comfortable space is sufficient.
Do you take birth photos?
My goal is to be as hands off as necessary at your birth and I love to snap some photos while you're laboring, or immediately after birth, if possible, but I am no birth photographer (although I’ve dabbled with it) and my attention is on making sure everyone is happy and healthy. If you desire birth photography, I highly recommend hiring someone specifically for that job. I also have some great recommendations for photogs as well!
Will i need to see a doctor if i hire a midwife?
Midwifery care is comprehensive and includes all of the same clinical components as obstetrical care so it is not necessary to see a doctor or OB for care unless you would like co-care. I will refer to a physician or pediatrician if a need arises, but we would discuss this thoroughly.