Learn how to choose the right birth center from a mom who had to do it twice… important things to consider.
We had two beautiful birth center births. And one hospital birth, and at the time of the post (2024), our little one is 2 months old and postpartum is great!
I wanted to share this information to help other mommas and whole it’s still fresh…let’s jump right in! 😄😀🤰🏽🤎
How to Choose the Right Birth Center for You
When it comes to choosing a birth center, it can feel overwhelming to navigate all the options and criteria.
As someone who has delivered at two different birth centers in large metropolitan areas, I want to share my personal experience and what worked for me.
This isn’t meant to duplicate what’s already laid out by experts, but rather to offer insight from my own journey.
For those interested in a comprehensive guide, the American Association of Birth Centers (AABC) provides an excellent resource on how to choose a birth center, which you can access here.
If you’re considering a birth center for your delivery, or just exploring it as an option, there are several important factors to keep in mind to ensure it aligns with your needs and expectations. Let’s dive into some key considerations based on my experiences.
1. Make Sure You’re Eligible for a Birth Center Birth
First, it’s important to know that birth centers typically have a set of eligibility criteria. Accredited birth centers usually cater to low-risk pregnancies, meaning certain medical conditions may disqualify you from delivering there.
Your health history and current pregnancy status will be evaluated to determine eligibility. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to have a conversation with the birth center staff about what they require.
2. Identify and Narrow Down Your Options
Once you’re sure a birth center birth is a possibility for you, start by making a list of available centers. If you live in a metropolitan area with many birth centers, you may want to narrow your list by location.
Ideally, choose a center that’s within a 15-20 minute drive, especially in case of any emergencies. For those living in less densely populated areas, this step may be easier due to fewer options.
3. Check for Accreditation and Home Birth Options
Accreditation from a reputable organization, such as the Commission for the Accreditation of Birth Centers (CABC), is a good indicator of quality and safety standards.
If you’re interested in the option of a home birth, see if the birth center offers this service. From my experience this is rare for centers to offer home birth as acceediated centers, have stricter requirements.
Some centers do, while others may not have the resources or legal permission to support home births. Understanding your options and preferences early on can help narrow down your list.
We delivered at both an accredited both center and one that was not and had a pleasant experience at both. The one legal approved and licensed to provide care, and had a credited registered nurse. It was phenomenal had the home birth option.
We started this way but ended up at the birth center it was great to know we had this option so again double check and talk with your provider about the options.
4. Consider Insurance Coverage and Self-Pay Options
Cost is a crucial factor. Verify if the birth center is in-network with your insurance, or explore self-pay options.
Some birth centers may not work with insurance at all, and opting for self-pay might be the more affordable route.
When I had my births, our insurance wasn’t in-network with the birth centers, so we opted for a self-pay package that covered prenatal and postnatal care.
This worked well for us, especially with a Health Savings Account (HSA) to manage the costs.
5. Schedule a Tour and Ask Questions
It’s essential to visit the birth center in person. Schedule a tour to get a feel for the space and meet the staff. Bring a list of questions, and use the AABC’s question guide to help guide your conversation. Key topics to cover include:
• What kind of classes or educational resources are offered? Are any of them required?
• What are the transfer protocols in case you need to go to a hospital during labor?
• Do they offer postpartum support? What’s included?
In my experience, both birth centers I worked with offered comprehensive classes covering topics such as nutrition, postpartum care, and childbirth preparation.
In one case, attending these classes was a requirement, which I found very beneficial for preparing myself. Do they offer acupuncture and or other services?
Or referrals both birth centers has referral list and even has one community member and midwife who were certified so I got to add this service to my care. It’s was amazing!
6. Meet the Midwives and Staff
The relationship with your midwife and the staff is integral to your experience. Set up a consultation to ensure their philosophy of care aligns with your preferences.
This is also a chance to gauge their vibe and bedside manner. Trusting your care team is essential, so if something doesn’t feel right, consider looking at other options.
One of the birth centers that we delivered at had tons of little things for the kiddos to do and when I was in my appointment one of the midwives played with my son! It was beautiful!
7. Consider Long-Term Care Options
Continuity of care is important. If the birth center also offers gynecological services, it may be beneficial to stay with them for routine women’s health care even after your birth.
In my case, I was already an established patient at both centers for general health and annual exams, which made the transition to prenatal care seamless. I love that I can continue my women’s health services at one!
8. Embrace the Process and Follow Your Intuition
Ultimately, choosing a birth center is a deeply personal decision. While it’s helpful to have a checklist, go with your instincts.
If a particular center feels right to you, it probably is. Trust your heart, and remember that this is a journey you should feel confident about. We felt confident at when we selected our birth centers, it felt like family, and we got a sense of community form both.
Choosing a Birth Center Helpful Resources
Here are some useful resources to help you find birth centers, both nationally and locally:
National Resources:
• American Association of Birth Centers (AABC)
• Commission for the Accreditation of Birth Centers (CABC)
Phoenix Arizona Area Birth Center Resources:
• Arizona Birth Network: A nonprofit organization providing information on local birth centers and birth-related resources.
• Phoenix Birth Center Coalition: A collective of local birth centers and birth professionals.
• Tempe Birth Center: One of the birth centers I have had personal experience with, offering comprehensive care and personalized services.
• Babymoon Inn: A popular birth center in Phoenix with a range of services, including classes and postpartum support.
Midwife Guy Ideas Final Thoughts
Choosing the right birth center involves more than just checking boxes—it’s about finding a place that makes you feel supported, informed, and respected throughout your journey.
Take your time, ask questions, and find a birth center that aligns with your needs and values. Remember that the right choice is the one that feels right to you.
I hope sharing my experience helps guide you in making your own decision, and I wish you a beautiful and empowering birth experience.
Happy 🙏🏾🤎🤰🏽
Love and many blessings,
VeganYum23 Mom xoxo