The Cost of Home Birth

A common question I am often asked is....

"why is home birth so expensive?"

Actually, it is not as expensive as one might think when you break down the costs.  ​My current rate is $3200, but consider the following services for someone who comes into care at or before 12 weeks:

• Up to 12 prenatal visits in the midwife’s office or home
• 1 home visit towards the end of your pregnancy with the midwife and at least two assistants driving to your home separately  
• 2-102 hours of labor and birth support (you never know how long your labor will be)
• 3+ hours of immediate postpartum care for you and your newborn
• 1-3 postpartum visits in the weeks after your birth (1 of which occurs in the comfort of your home)
• 24/7 unlimited phone/email/text support 
• Loving and respectful care throughout your whole experience

A midwife's costs include:

• office space
• travel (don’t get my husband started on this one)
• supplies
• assistants (yes they get paid as well)
• time on call
• continuing education, etc. ​

Now, tell me again that home birth care is too expensive.  When evaluating the cost of services, I think you will find that home birth rates are priced quite appropriately. In reality, it’s a steal! Most midwives, including myself, aren't in home birth for the money.  We do it because we are called into this work of supporting families to have the birth of their dreams. That is priceless!

Toni