When I got pregnant, I started seeing my OBGYN for all the important appointments. I loved my doctor, she was someone I knew from my home church and someone I knew had lots of experience.
But then, when I decided to take the Bradley Method birth class, my eyes were opened to a whole knew world. I slowly began to realize that what I wanted to prioritize for me and my baby where not priorities for my OBGYN.
So, at 28 weeks pregnant with my first baby, I switched providers.
At the time of my pregnancies, OU Medical had a full team of midwives on staff to serve in the hospital setting. Friends of mine had used them for their births, so I set up an appointment and after the first visit, I knew I had made the right decision to switch.
Choosing where to give birth is, obviously, a super personal decision!
Today we’re going to talk about both home birth and birth center birth to help you see the pros and cons of choosing each type of birth in Oklahoma City and I’ll share local resources that can help you learn more about each of these options!
Understanding Home Births in Oklahoma City
A home birth means that you’re choosing to give birth in your home, attended usually by a midwife.
Let’s break down midwives real quick: A Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) is specially trained for home births and private birthing centers, learning through apprenticeships or accredited schools.
They’re different from Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) who start as nurses.
Considering a midwife? Here are a few I’ve either worked with or have networked with that I highly recommend:
Home Birth Advantages
Of course, you’re in a familiar environment! The comfort and familiarity of your space can provide a sense of calm during labor (not to mention you don’t have to find a place for your other kids to go when you go into labor!)
Personalized care: Your midwife provides one-on-one attention (keep in mind, most of the time this is true for a birth center birth as well).
Control over the birthing process: From setting the ambiance to choosing who attends, you’re in complete control.
Home Birth Considerations
Emergency resources might not be immediately accessible.
You and your team are responsible for setting up and cleaning up the space.
This is what one of my clients said about her homebirth after having two hospital births:
It was so much less painful than either of my hospital births, even without an epidural. I believe that a big part of that is feeling safe and peaceful in my own home, and not being fearful. My recovery has been a thousand times better this time around also. – Mama J
Understanding Birth Centers in Oklahoma City
Birth centers are a middle ground between the home-like setting of a home birth and the medical facilities of a hospital.
Currently here is a link to birth centers in Oklahoma City:
Birth Center Advantages
More medical resources than home births but less intervention-focused than hospitals.
Typically staffed by midwives who support natural birthing practices.
Often located close to hospitals, ensuring quick transfers if necessary.
You can show up and have your baby without worrying about set up or clean up.
Good option if you live in a small home or apartment.
Birth Center Considerations
They might not offer all the medical interventions available at a hospital.
It’s a setting away from home, so it might not provide the same level of intimacy.
Make sure the birth center has a good relationship with a nearby hospital.
How Can You Decide Which to Choose?
Ask yourself about …
- Medical Safety: Evaluate your pregnancy risks. Low-risk pregnancies might be more suited for home or birth center births, while higher-risk ones might be safer in hospitals. A midwife can help you determine if you’re low risk!
- Comfort Level: Some women feel safer in a medical setting, while others prefer the warmth of their homes.
- Cost: Home births and birth centers might be less expensive than hospitals, but always check with your insurance. Many midwives and birth centers offer payment plans.
- Support System: Consider where your chosen support team (like doulas or family members) can best assist you.
Whether you choose the intimacy of your bedroom or the supportive environment of a birth center, what matters most is what feels right for you!
Again, birth space choice is such a personal decision! No matter where you birth, the important thing is to be well educated on where you birth!
Click here to see Oklahoma City Home Birth Photography. Ready to inquire about adding me to your birth team? Let’s chat!
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