FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
GENERAL
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The midwifery philosophy sees birth as a normal physiologic event that the body is designed to do well. We anticipate normal and react and respond to abnormal when appropriate, avoiding interventions, unless they are medically necessary. Your midwifery care will be tailored to you specifically and not a one-size-fits-most model. Your appointments with me are 60 minutes instead of 15, you see me at every visit from your first prenatal, through birth, and postpartum. We will will work as a team to support your body's natural wisdom.
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For low-risk pregnancies, research shows that home birth with a qualified midwife is a safe option. With thoughtful attention throughout your pregnancy, we will ensure that you remain low risk and that home birth remains a safe option for you. I carry comprehensive emergency equipment, and I'm trained to handle most emergencies. If a transfer becomes necessary, I come with you to the hospital and help to coordinate your care and advocate for you. During your pregnancy we talk through these scenarios and make back-up plans so that you feel prepared and safe.
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Absolutely! Being nervous can be very normal, and you don't need to have it all figured out before we talk. The consultation is a conversation where we discuss your concerns, my approach, and see if we are a good fit. There is no pressure to commit to anything. Birthing where you feel safest and with whom you feel most comfortable is the most important thing for a positive experience.
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I primarily serve Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook, Pacific, & Wahkiakum counties and will consider outside this radius on a select case-by-case basis.
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Let’s have a conversation. While my primary goal is to serve clients looking for a home birth option, I also recognize the benefit of having collaborative care between your OB team and a midwife. Let’s chat about what you want, how I can help, and what working together could look like.
PRICING & INSURANCE
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I am working towards accepting most private insurance plans as an out of network provider. Together, we will work with my biller and your insurance company to determine your estimated out of pocket costs and a reasonable payment plan. Many clients are surprised to learn their insurance covers home birth and can be cheaper than a planned hospital birth.
I accept and am in network with Oregon Medicaid (OHP).
I do not accept Washington state Medicaid.
I offer a sliding scale self pay option with folks who have financial hardship.
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My self pay rate is $7000. This fee covers prenatal care, a first trimester ultrasound, basic labs, labor and birth support, a qualified birth assistant, a birth tub rental, standard medications, postpartum care through 6 weeks after birth, and newborn care for their first 28 days of life.
This fee does not include second trimester ultrasounds, specialty medications, and outside consultations. These may incur additional fees or are to be paid directly to the facility providing them. I will ask you to purchase some home birth supplies (approximately $60-$120) by 36 weeks and will help you source them affordably.
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Yes, we will find a flexible payment plan customized to your situation that works for us both. Many clients pay in monthly installments throughout pregnancy. My goal is to make this care as accessible as I can, while minimizing additional stress during an already big transition. During one of our first visits, we will figure out a plan that works for your family. That conversation is always confidential and compassionate.
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Often yes, especially if you're paying out of pocket or have a high deductible, hospital births can cost $10,000-$30,000+ before insurance. With midwifery care you pay one transparent fee with no surprise bills, and if your insurance covers home birth, your out-of-pocket cost is often less than a hospital copay. We will run the numbers based on your specific insurance so you know what to expect.
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Great question! I am still figuring out all the moving pieces. I can accept OHP for women’s health and wellness visit.
I also offer cash pay rates for gynecologic visits.
If you have private insurance, we can explore your out of network benefits to see if your insurance requires a prior authorization, which may mean we would need approval before we can get you in for your clinic visit. I can always provide a superbill for you to send to your insurance company as well. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you want specific financial information for a type of visit you are wanting.
WOMEN’S HEALTH
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Absolutely. I provide holistic full-spectrum women's health care including trauma informed annual exams, hormonal and non-hormonal birth control consultations, gentle IUD placements and removals, as well as care for period problems and fertility concerns. You don't need to be pregnant or planning a pregnancy to become my client. If you’re looking for a different gyno experience, you're in the right place.
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Yes! I will spend time listening to your story, reviewing your symptoms, and investigating your cycle patterns. Together we will make a plan, whether that's lifestyle changes, herbal support, hormonal treatment, or a specialist referral. You don't have to suffer through painful or irregular periods alone. You deserve more than just a birth control prescription. Let's dive in.
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I would love to! I offer preconception consultations where we can talk about optimizing health, discuss cycle tracking, timing intercourse, and identify any barriers to getting pregnant. Many people get pregnant with some in-depth education about their cycle and some lifestyle adjustments. If we discover something needing specialist care, I'll refer you and continue to support your journey as much as you want. Starting before you're pregnant means we already have a relationship when you conceive.
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Absolutely. I am here to walk you through all your options and find a plan that feels right for you. Whether you are not sure you want to be pregnant, unsure if you want OB care or midwifery care, or just trying to wrap your head around being pregnant at all, I can be a supportive sounding board and a brainstorming ally.