Help with Birth options in Los Angeles

[Shellcee]

I just found out I'm pregnant! I'm trying to navigate the birthing system in L.A. I would love to go to a birthing center or have a home birth, but after some research it seems really expensive. Can anyone enlighten me or give me some advice on how to approach this process. Thanks! - Shell.

[Calliope85]

Hi Shell, congratulations!

It can be overwhelming making decisions about your birth place.  It sounds like you might have already spoken to some midwives--have you checked to see if any offer a discount or special payment plan?  It isn't cheap but for those committed to homebirth who find creative ways to make it happen, it can be well worth it.

Do you have a choice of hospitals if you are considering the hospital route?

[Shellcee]

Thanks for getting back to me. I haven't explored the hospital option yet. I have an appt. with my GYN in a few weeks and I'm going to talk to her about it. She's a great person and I wouldn't mind her delivering my baby, but I don't like the idea of the hospital setting. I'm also considering UCLA Nurse Midwives, but my understanding is that they're in a hospital setting, too.

[Calliope85]

That's great that you have a good relationship with your care provider, though I understand your hesitations with the hospital setting. 

It's an overwhelming decision!  I'm a childbirth educator and, though I'm somewhat new to LA, I would be happy to help with any specific questions you might have.  :)

[JudiAU]

UCLA midwives offer solid midwifery care in a hospital setting. Received good care with my first. Drs Wu and Chen of Cedars offer backup care to my home birth midwives (Homebirth Services of Los Angeles Leslie Srewart and Catherine Williams) which is pretty cool. And yes, if you want a Homebirth you'll need to pay out if pocket and then fight your insurance for some form of reimbursement. $4-5k