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Five Tips to Plan for a Natural Birth

Many women today are hoping to have a natural birth so they can be comfortable as they welcome their new baby into the world. Natural births have many advantages, but it is important for you to take the time to prepare for one. Preparing beforehand can help you save a lot of money and below is a list of tips that can help you prepare for a natural birth and stay money smart.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

Five Cheap Ways to Plan for a Natural BirthYour insurance may cover a large portion of the costs of your natural birth. Even if you are giving birth at home, your insurance company may still pay for it. Ask your insurance provider about how much they will cover. You should also ask about the medical services covered, as this will allow you to get an estimate of the amount of money you will be required to pay out of pocket.

Keep Yourself Healthy

Taking the steps necessary to keep yourself healthy during your pregnancy can help you save money as well. Simple things like exercising, eating right, managing your stress, and getting the proper amount of sleep can greatly cut your risk of having complications. Dr. Gilbert Webb, a maternal-fetal specialist in St. Louis, Missouri says it is important to note that if you develop complications during your pregnancy, and/or if your pregnancy is considered high-risk, then you may not be a candidate for natural birth, though your obstetrician or maternal-fetal medicine specialist will determine what is the safest option for you and your baby.

Consider Hiring A Midwife, with or without a Doula

Midwives can be a good option for healthy women at low risk for problems during pregnancy, labor, or delivery. A certified nurse-midwife (CNM) is educated in both nursing and midwifery. Most CNMs practice in hospitals and birth centers.

On the other hand, a certified professional midwife (CPM) delivers babies in both home settings and birthing centers. Generally, having your baby at home is much cheaper and also since the environment is familiar it can be more relaxing and less regimented. Plus since there will be no routine medical procedures, you will have control of your birthing experience.

Midwives should have a back-up plan with an obstetrician in case of a problem or emergency. Most insurance plans will cover the cost of a midwife which is generally much less than that of an Obstetrician.

A doula is a non-medical person who offers support for a woman during labor. Doulas can also assist women during the pre and postpartum period. The cost of a doula is typically not covered by health insurance. However, studies have shown that women who use doulas are less likely to have complications during labor, and are less likely to need pain medication. Any woman who is planning a natural birth can definitely benefit from having a doula.

Ask If Certain Tests Are Necessary

Prenatal care is essential for keeping mom and baby healthy. Talk to your healthcare provider about the specific tests you need. Eliminating unnecessary tests and procedures can help you save money on your prenatal care.

Take Some Childbirth Classes

You will be better prepared for labor and delivery if you take some childbirth classes. You can also learn natural methods for coping with the pain in a childbirth class. Childbirth classes typically are not very expensive. In fact, many places offer free childbirth classes. Ask your healthcare provider about childbirth classes in your area.

 

Getting ready for a natural birth can mean a bit more preparation and research, but when you know what to expect, the rest can go smoothly.

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