DO YOU TAKE INSURANCE/How much does a homebirth cost?
Yes, I am in network with BCBS, Cigna, MVP and Green Mountain Care/Dr. Dynasaur/Medicaid. Homebirth is covered by insurance in Vermont. If you have a self-funded plan they do NOT have to cover homebirth. I will run a verification of benefits (VOB) to determine your personal coverage details at the beginning of care, or prior to you hiring me if you prefer.
I do have a non-medical services fee that you would not have to pay if you were having a hospital birth. My fee is $800 - $2000 sliding scale (you choose what you can/want to pay no questions asked). The second midwife at the birth charges $600. If you want to work with me and this poses a hardship please let me know and we’ll work something out.
Not included in this fee are supplies for you to gather.
IS A HOMEBIRTH SAFE?
Low risk women who plan homebirths with trained attendants have fewer interventions without an increase in risk to mothers and babies.
WHAT IF I NEED TO GO TO THE HOSPITAL DURING LABOR?
If a transport to the hospital is indicated during labor I will call ahead to the hospital and let them know we are on our way. I will fax your records so the hospital providers have them, usually before we arrive. I will meet you at the hospital and remain as a support person throughout your birth. When you return home I will resume postpartum care.
WHO CAN HAVE A HOMEBIRTH IN VERMONT?
Homebirth is safest for low risk women and babies. Most pregnancies are low risk. How much money you make, the size and condition of your home, how old you are - none of that determines your eligibility for homebirth. In Vermont midwives are licensed by the Office of Professional Regulations which defines low risk pregnancies. We can not deliver twins or breech babies at home. There are several medical conditions that exclude someone from being low risk: some types of hyperthyroid, type 1 diabetes, coagulation disorders, renal disease for example. Call or set up a free 1 hour consultation to find out if your pregnancy is low risk and appropriate for homebirth care.
HOW PAINFUL IS NATURAL CHILDBIRTH? WILL I BE ABLE TO HANDLE IT?
In my experience, most people, when properly prepared, handle labor much better than they think they will. Our culture has ingrained in people that labor is an unbearably painful event. Many of us find that this is not the case. This is especially true when women are are able to move, eat, drink, sleep, use the tub or shower, and follow the direction that their bodies urge them to go.
CAN I HAVE A WATER BIRTH?
Absolutely, my care includes use of a birth tub with a personal liner.
WHO CAN I HAVE AT MY BIRTH?
That is entirely up to you. If you already have children they are welcome to be their and we’ll talk throughout your care about how to structure that for success. Some people choose to have doulas and/or photographers, close friends and/or family. Many people choose to just have the birth team and their partner. What feels best to you is the right answer and I can help you figure that out as well.
DO YOU WORK WITH DOULAS?
Absolutely! Doulas and midwives have different roles and support the birthing process with different tools.
HOW ARE PARTNERS SUPPORTED DURING HOMEBIRTH?
The birth team is there to support both the birthing person and their partner. Through open communication I strive to help partners fully understand what is happening throughout pregnancy, birth and postpartum. That way they can feel empowered to support the process. Being in your own home allows partners the space and comfort to support the birthing person with food and drink, comfortable clothes, music and other tools you’ve gathered during the pregnancy. I am stepping into your space and honoring the connection between you and your partner.
WHAT KIND OF CARE CAN WE EXPECT IN THE POSTPARTUM/NEWBORN PERIOD?
Five postpartum visits is the standard. I return to your home 24-48 hours after the birth and on day 3 and 7. You return to the office between 2-3 weeks and at 6 weeks. During that time I provide complete care for the postpartum person and baby. Including breastfeeding support, postpartum mood screenings, and guidance through this transitional time.