Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a client?

The first step is to schedule a consultation with our midwife which can be coordinated at ANY time in your pregnancy, including very early or very late! After the consultation you will receive registration documents and you can register at anytime. Once you register, our team will reach out to schedule your Initial Visit so you can become a BirthHouse Mama!

Consultation Options:
A) No charge for phone consultations and these can often be scheduled at your convenience
B) If an in-person consultation is preferred, there is a $50 fee (this fee would later be applied toward your total if you become a client)

 

Why do I need a consultation?

At the consultation, our midwives can help you determine if you are a candidate for midwifery care. You will also be able to receive a tour of the birth center, privately ask any questions you might have, and also have an opportunity to discuss your personal financial obligations based on your insurance coverage.

Am I a candidate for midwifery care?

A birth center is a place for low-risk deliveries. Midwives do not practice complicated obstetrics. A client’s risk factors will be evaluated by the midwife throughout the pregnancy. Should risk factors change, the client will be given a physician consultation or may be transferred from care. The following is a list of medical conditions which would not qualify for midwifery care.

 

  • VBAC (vaginal birth after c-section)
  • Epileptics currently on medication
  • Type I or II diabetics
  • current addiction to narcotics
  • Confirmed HIV infection
  • Hepatitis B or C
  • Twins or other multiple pregnancy
  • Any pregnancy that will require a c-section for safe delivery of the baby

Does The Natural BirthHouse take insurance?

Yes, we accept almost all insurance plans with maternity coverage! We also accept health sharing companies such as Medishare, Solidarity, and Samaritan Ministries.

Does The Natural BirthHouse accept Medicaid?

No. Thankfully, Medicaid moms can receive ultrasounds, lab work and physician appointments during pregnancy without incurring any charges, however our birth center fees would be charges as a cash-paying client. We do serve Medicaid families who are able to make monthly payments on their birth center fee and/or qualify for our finance option through United Medical Credit. 

Do I need to have a physician to birth with a midwife?

To become a client at The Natural BirthHouse, you must first confirm your pregnancy with an OBGYN, though you may register beforehand.

For convenience, our Medical Director, Dr. Damon Cudihy at Acadiana OBGYN (337-261-5433), and his partner next door can provide this appointment. However, you may see any OBGYN of your choice.

This visit is solely to confirm pregnancy—no approval, permission, or midwife oversight is required. When scheduling with Acadiana OBGYN, you can mention your interest in a BirthHouse birth.

Other Services

Looking for a birth at home?

Our Midwives Terresa and Kira are accepting homebirths with limited availability. Please mention your interest in homebirth on your consultation form.

  • Must live within 20 minutes of a hospital that delivers babies
  • must live within an hour driving time from The Natural Birthhouse
  • sorry, no first time moms at this time for homebirth.

Looking for a doula?

We LOVE doulas!

and highly recommend them to all of our families!

Our birth center provides a referral list of doulas we work with often once you are in care.

If you are a local doula and would like to be added to our list, please contact us.

Looking for Placenta Encapsulation?

Many clients choose to encapsulate their placenta, but we do not have a Placenta Specialist on staff. You will need to hire your own.

We recommend contacting an APPA Certified Specialist.

Looking for childbirth classes?

 

Acadiana is so lucky to have a variety of natural-birth classes to offer including Lamaze, Bradley, Comfort Measures and more!