Non-Traditional Birthing?

by Crystal Paine

"Crystal , Since you believe that children should not be prevented due to finances...do you advocate a non-traditional way of giving birth? I've heard that typical hospital births cost about $10,000 when all's said and done, and that's if nothing goes wrong. Many health insurance plans don't offer maternity benefits.” -Erin

Hi, Erin! Contrary to popular opinion, it doesn't have to cost $10,000 to have a baby! In fact, for Kathrynne's entire birth, including prenatal and postnatal care, along with birthing classes and the whole kit and kaboodle costs us a grand total of about $700!

God provides when you trust Him! There are many ways to have a baby which won't break your budget!

Far Kathrynne's birth, we used a free-standing birthing center with an all-female staff (my husband and I are with you on that, Zan! Unless I'm dying, I only want a female doctor, nurse, or midwife!). Our insurance did pay for most of the costs (and we are on student insurance!), but going to a birthing center is also a lot more economical (about $3,000 for the total care package). We loved the birthing center. My husband and I wanted to be able to make our own decisions regarding care of mother and baby and this allowed us to do things in a much more natural way.
Many of the traditional hospital procedures are not only unneccessary, they can also be harmful to both mother and baby (Don't shoot me, Zan, or any other RN or MD out there reading this!). Birth is a natural experience. It is not a sickness or a disease and it should not be treated that way. Yes, there are sometimes complications which arise, but for the most part, a healthy mother who has a healthy pregnancy and has prepared herself for the birth can have a wonderful, natural birth experience. My birthing experience was really one of the most incredible experiences of my life (if you want to read my birth story, feel free to email me and I'll be happy to send it to you). It really was a lot easier than I was expecting. Having a natural, unmedicated birth is a very thrilling experience.

Having a homebirth is also another great option. My sister apprenticed as a midwife for two years and my mom has served as a doula at a number of births, so I'm quite familiar with homebirths. I've even been able to attend a few (I attended the birth of my youngest brother-- my sister delivered him with the oversight of 2 midwives!) There are many Christian midwives who will provide care free of charge or for whatever the family can pay. I know of many families who will barter with a midwife for her services. My husband and I are hoping to have a homebirth next time, Lord-willing.

Another thing, my husband and I have been on a couple of insurance plans since we have been married and we always make sure that whatever insurance we have will cover maternity. It can be worth it to pay a little more to have that covered. So, if you have a choice of insurance policies, definitely maker sure your bases are covered on this one. Very few insurance companies cover homebirths, but they will usually cover birthing centers.

Please note: I am not bashing hospital births, nor am I saying it is a sin to have a hospital birth! I am just providing some alternatives which are usually more affordable.