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Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the benefits of a water birth?
A uniquely designed hydrotherapy tub gives the laboring mom the opportunity to fully submerge her tummy into comforting waters. It is spacious enough that her partner can help support her in the water, if desired. Many women enjoy the benefits of using water for comfort during labor. Studies show that water can allow the laboring mother to better relax, experience less pain, decrease her anxiety and increase blood supply to the baby.
What happens if there are complications during the birth?
We will be located within 10 miles of a major hospital. If any comlications occur that can not be handled by your midwife you will be transported to a hospital.
Does my insurance cover Midwifery Care?
Most major health insurers contract with birth centers for reimbursement. In a national survey of birth centers, these insurers included companies such as: Aetna/US Healthcare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, CHAMPUS and Humana to name a few. The Birth Lounge will assist you in determining what costs your health plan will cover.
How long after I give birth can I go home?
Providing that no complications arise, women may remain at the birth center for up to 12 hours after giving birth. However, most mothers choose to go home between 4 and 8 hours after the birth.
Does medical insurance cover Doula services?
Most insurance companies do not cover the cost of doulas at this time. You may be able to pay for doula services out of your medical savings account, flexible spending account, or cafeteria plan. Please inquire about sliding scale fees and payment plans.
Who can be with me when I'm in labor and give birth?
The Birth Lounge aims to empower women to make the choices that will best suit her individual needs during the time of her labor and delivery. There is no finite rule about the number of people attending each birth, and children are welcome with a supervising adult. Please note that The Birth Lounge childcare DOES NOT pertain to labor and delivery. Supervising adults must be prepared to leave the birthing woman should the child need special attention.
Are water Births possible at The Birth Lounge?
Yes! The theory behind water birth is that the baby has been in the amniotic sac for 9 months and birthing into a similar environment is gentler for the baby and less stressful for the mother. It is the belief of midwives, birthing centers and a growing number of obstetricians, that reducing the stress during labor and delivery also reduces fetal complications. The Birth Lounge is fully equipped with robust tubs for your comfort.
What should I pack for the birth of my baby?
-Personal identification and health insurance card
-List of phone numbers and e-mail addresses for people you want to contact after the delivery
-Lip balm or Chap Stick® (your lips get dry during labor)
-A watch with a second hand to time contractions
-Toothbrush and toothpaste
-Barrettes or band to tie back long hair
-Music (The Birth Lounge suites are all equipped with iPod docking stations)
-Camera and video camera
-A going-home outfit for you and baby
-Blanket for baby
-A nursing gown and/or comfortable robe that opens all the way down the front
-Nursing bras and nursing pads
-Slippers/socks to keep your feet warm
-Personal hygiene items for you and your birth support team
-A federally approved infant car seat properly installed in your car before you are discharged from the The Birth Lounge.
-Food and drink for the people supporting the laboring woman and perhaps something for herself. A fridge and microwave will be available for your use.
How and when should I contact my Nurse Midwife if I suspect my water has broken or my contractions have started?
You will be given direct contact to your Nurse Midwives at your prenatal visits and you will also be given information as to how to tell if your water has broken or contractions have begun.
Is it safe to labor without continuous fetal monitoring?
Yes, it is safe. While continuous monitoring has become a standard practice in hospitals, research has failed to prove that it provides significant difference in outcomes for low-risk deliveries. We follow the recommended guidelines for intermittent monitoring as set by the American College of OB/GYNs.
Can I eat and/or drink while in labor?
Yes, There is no need for you to keep yourslef from drinking or eating when thirsty or hungry. Your body knows best what it needs. However, most women do not have a desire to eat when labor is well established. The Birth Lounge will have ice chips available for you during labor.
When should I see a pediatrician?
Your midwives will care for you and your baby for the first 6 weeks after delivery. Most people choose to make their first appointment with a pediatrician when their baby is 8 weeks old. It's helpful to decide on a pediatrician in late pregnancy because it's a lot easier to meet and get to know their philosophies on different issues when your baby is on the inside!
What is the cost for giving birth at The Birth Lounge?
The total fee for prenatal care, birthing, and postpartum care at The Birth Lounge is $5,200. This includes a midwifery professional fee of $2,700 and a $2500 fee for the use of The Birth Lounge facilities.
The professional fee includes:
-24-hour availability of the nurse-midwife/physician team.
-Prenatal care.
-Labor and birth care.
-Newborn assessment.
-One and six week postpartum office visit.
The Facility fee includes:
-Orientation to care.
-Labor and birth supplies.
-Support and care by a certified nurse-midwife.
-Use of the center's facilities from admission to discharge.
