To be eligible to give birth at the Alabama Birth Center, individuals must have low-risk pregnancies, indicating that they are not currently experiencing or have experienced in previous pregnancies any complications or medical conditions necessitating hospital care or specialized interventions during childbirth. Those opting for childbirth at ABC should be in good health and without significant risk factors. This setting offers a personalized and natural birthing experience for those seeking an alternative to hospital deliveries. It's crucial for individuals to directly consult with the birth center to understand the specific eligibility requirements and guidelines. Click here to book a consultation today!

Alabama Birth Center operates on a cash-pay basis for now, with efforts underway to facilitate insurance and Medicaid coverage. Patients will meet with a financial advisor after their initial consultation to break down a cost for them specifically. Currently, patients are having to pay out of pocket and then file "out of network" with their insurance providers. Some insurances do cover things such as labs and blood work, and this is on an individual basis according to patient insurance plans, and is different for everyone.

Because of Alabama State Law, individuals who have had previous Cesarean deliveries are restricted from giving birth in a birth center or at home. Those seeking a VBAC who wish to birth at home in Alabama must seek midwifery care in another state.

Alabama Birth Center will offer alternative pain relief options such as: hydrotherapy, nitrous oxide, breathing techniques, position suggestions, counter pressure, and doula assistance. Epidurals are not offered.

Since our patients at ABC are low-risk, the likelihood of hospital transfer is uncommon, and we maintain safety by adhering to strict guidelines. This ensures that only individuals with low-risk pregnancies give birth at the birth center. The most common reasons for transfer before labor include blood pressure issues and amniotic fluid volume concerns. Occasionally, individuals admitted to the birth center may transfer to the hospital before delivery, but the majority of transfers are not emergencies. Typically, patients who begin labor at the birth center will give birth there. One of the most common reasons for a non-emergent transfer would be inadequate pain relief (as we do not offer epidurals at ABC). Some mothers may require hospital-based care for postpartum recovery, including a few who need urgent transfer. The most frequent reasons for postpartum transfer include the need for surgical assistance with laceration repair, excessive bleeding, or difficulties delivering the placenta. Occasionally, babies may not be eligible for early discharge and may require hospital-based care for 24-48 hours or more. The most common reasons for newborn hospital admission are concerns related to jaundice or breathing difficulties. Overall, the likelihood of transfers due to emergencies is low.

Midwives and obstetricians play complementary roles in maternity care. Midwives emphasize a more natural and personalized approach to childbirth and prenatal care, while obstetricians are trained to handle a broader spectrum of medical conditions and complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

Midwives routinely advocate for natural childbirth whenever possible, encouraging minimal intervention and supporting women in labor to use techniques like breathing exercises, movement, and positioning to manage pain. At Alabama Birth Center, our holistic approach encompasses a range of natural and evidence-based practices, fostering a sense of trust, collaboration, and individualized care throughout the entire pregnancy journey. By collaborating with and endorsing the efforts of midwives, we are helping to enhance the quality of care and childbirth experiences in Alabama. (The March of Dimes has labeled more than 1/3 of Alabama counties as maternity care deserts, lacking obstetricians or hospitals with labor and delivery units. Alabama also has the sixth highest infant mortality rate in the nation, with Black infants making up a disproportionate number of these deaths. )