Birth Centers

By Angela Kendrick

Birth centers are a great alternative from traditional hospital labor and delivery rooms, and yet not completely on the other end of the spectrum with home births.


So, what is a birth center? A birthing center is an actual healthcare facility. But rather than having traditional doctors and nurses, they are traditionally staffed by nurse-midwives, midwives, and sometimes PA obstetricians. This staff will attend to the expecting mother, helping her through the pain of labor and in many ways serving as an additional labor coach to help make the birth easier. The midwives monitor the childbirth labor, watching the health of both he mother and the baby during birth.

One of the reasons that birth centers are chosen as an alternative to traditional hospital deliveries is the "home-like" feel. Hospitals are hospitals. They are sterile, cynder-block walls, and a bit cold in feeling and appearance. Sometimes this adds stress to the mother. A birth center is made to feel more comfortable, and as a result, many mothers feel more relaxed. This translates into a higher rate of natural childbirths, and less complications during labor and delivery.

Due to the growing popularity of these birthing centers, many hospitals are actually building them on their campus. I like this idea, as long as it remains with the purpose in which it was meant to be. One of the reasons I do like this idea, is that not every delivery goes as planned. There are complications. There are emergencies. To deny that is irresponsible. Having a hospital within a couple minutes of the birthing center is not only convenient, but potentially life saving.

Many of these facilities are actually built in old homes, so it does feel more like a real home. Wood floors, carpet, wall hangings, kitchen, etc. Not only is this good for you, but the staff enjoys this setting as well.

Fees and costs of using a center are about half of a traditional hospital. This is good for both you and the insurance company that is paying as well. I know our third child was born at a hospital. I went into pre-labor at 5 months, and we wanted to make sure things were safe. We had to pay cash... and the cost was a bit over $10,000. I'm sure it's more than that now. Most birth centers are less than half that.

When considering how you want to delivery, this is one alternative from a traditional setting. I cannot really say anything bad about the hospital. I had good experiences there too. Like everything, much of your experience has to do with the staff. Good staff = good experience. My doctor was great, and I know that I was where I was in the hands of God. That to me, is more important and what puts my mind at peace.

Angela Kendrick has served in several youth and kids's ministries, educating kids and parents through all stages of creature.