Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an OB, a midwife, and a doula?
An OB is a maternity care provider that can perform surgery. Most work exclusively in the hospital and are part of large group practices. Most OB prenatal visits are 15 min long, and care, including birth, is generally with a different doctor each time.
Midwives are maternity care providers that care for low-risk women usually in an intimate practice setting, outside of the hospital. Midwives are legal and licensed in the state of Florida and practice a holistic model of care that includes in-depth counseling and education, shared decision-making, an emphasis on mental-emotional wellness, breastfeeding, parenting, and a general focus on the whole person and a healthy transition to motherhood.
Doulas provide educational support prenatally as well as labor support. They are able to assist with a healthy transition to motherhood and are also knowledgeable in breastfeeding and parenting resources. Although doulas are not maternity healthcare providers, they are a valuable part of the support team for mothers regardless of the place of birth.
What happens if there is an emergency?
Due to having low-risk clients with healthy, low-risk pregnancies, our transfer rate is very low. We are trained to identify risk factors and transfer to the hospital before complications become true emergencies. We carry medications such as pitocin, IV fluids, oxygen, and resuscitation equipment that allow us to manage some complications at home. As a maternity healthcare provider in the state of Florida we also train and certify in Neonatal Resuscitation and CPR every 2 years.
During your care we discuss the reasons why we might transfer to the hospital and what happens during a transfer. We have great relationships with our community hospitals and facilitate a smooth transfer of care in the small percentage of births where it might be necessary.
Do you take insurance? Are there payment plans?
We are considered out-of-network providers with insurance companies. Many plans have high deductibles making it a small difference to pay out of pocket for your care. We partner with a specialized midwifery biller that will give you the specifics of your plan’s maternity benefits. If your plan has a low deductible and covers home birth then she will assist you in seeking reimbursement by filing a claim on your behalf after your care is complete.
Payment plans with us are available throughout the course of your care. Should you need longer terms of 2-5 years, you will have the option of working with a medical financing company. Most of our clients use our monthly, interest-free payment plan and are paid in full before their birth.
Can I have a water birth?
Yes! Many of our clients feel great relief laboring in water and often give birth to their babies in the water. Water birth is a safe and gentle way to welcome your baby into the world. We bring a birthing tub to every birth we attend and you will have the option to labor in it and give birth in it should you choose.
