Practically everyone knows that when it comes to picking out diamonds, jewelers use the 4 Cs—cut, color, clarity and carat size—as a litmus test for true quality. But did you know that choosing a place to deliver your baby has a 4 Cs of its own, with a bonus for good measure? It’s true! When searching for your birthing destination, be on the lookout for systems that fit your needs in terms of cost/coverage, convenience, critical care, compatibility and customization. Let’s take a moment to break down these factors.
Cost/Coverage
You can’t put a price tag on having a healthy pregnancy, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend an arm and a leg for it either. Do your homework to determine which providers and hospital systems are in network with your insurance coverage. Patients can expect to receive quality care at a discounted rate by staying in network. On the flip side, going out of network will come at a cost. Not sure what your policy covers? Now’s the time to brush up on your benefit policies by reading the fine print and contacting your insurance company for clarification. Determining what is in network is a great starting place, as it not only naturally limits your options but also gives you a better picture of how much you will be paying out of pocket.
Convenience
When it comes to real estate, it’s all about location, location, location. Labor and delivery is no exception! Where are you willing to go, and how far is too far? Do you prefer to birth at a freestanding birthing center, at home assisted by board certified midwives or at a hospital system outfitted with a high level neonatal intensive care unit? Some mamas find that the rapport they have with their practitioner is worth the extra drive time, but others may find that time is of the essence, and a quick commute equals less stress—not to mention alleviates the fear of having a baby on the side of the road!
Critical Care
Cost and convenience are primary factors for many moms-to-be as they determine where to deliver. But for those dealing with chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, or for those who have had complicated or high-risk pregnancies in the past, taking every precaution necessary trumps all other factors. In this event, you may find it worth your while to pursue a higher level of care than your insurance covers. But don’t lament if you find yourself in need of an out-of-network provider. Some insurance companies may be swayed to make an exception. After all, what’s in the best interest of you and your baby will ultimately equate to lower costs for the insurance company. Likewise, finding a hospital system that is equipped with specialty care might necessitate trekking to the other side of town, bypassing the maternity ward down the road in favor of greater peace of mind.
Compatibility
The relationship between patient and health care professional is a unique one, fueled by mutual respect and trust throughout an exhilarating yet vulnerable time. Equally important is finding someone to partner with that shares a similar birthing philosophy and approach to care. Determine what your deal breakers are, whether that be track record, bedside demeanor, gender or off-hours accessibility. Then start researching which practitioners are within network at your hospital of choice. Feeling overwhelmed? Start by asking your own family practice doctor and gynecologist for recommendations and then branch out to your local family and friends for advice. (Sometimes those birthing horror stories can be helpful for knowing which practitioners to avoid!) Once you have a few worth pursuing, schedule consultations to interview your doctors of choice. An initial meeting should give you insight into what a doctor’s stance is on important issues such as pain management, interventions, as well as whom she allows to be present during delivery. Though it’s important to be on the same page with your goals, know that how a doctor makes you feel can be just as important as his philosophy for childbirth. Does he respect your decisions regarding epidural vs. no epidural, circumcision, or breastfeeding vs. formula? Do you feel rushed or ill at ease? If things feel off, consult with your doctor and see whether you can come to an understanding. If things don’t improve, know that it’s perfectly fine to transfer care elsewhere. Just make sure to move sooner rather than later, as many doctors do not accept new patients in their final trimester.
Customization
The important decisions are made. Now, it’s time for the personal touches! When considering a hospital birth, final factors to consider include:
- quality of the hospital food
- whether or not you can recover in the same room you give birth in
- delivery room amenities, such as aromatherapy, music therapy, jacuzzi, etc.
- on-site class offerings for before and after delivery, such as prenatal education (general birthing courses or specific methods such as Bradley, Lamaze or hypnobirthing, etc.), lactation consulting or breastfeeding support groups
—-------Pop Quiz!--------
Over what percentage of moms-to-be opt for an epidural for pain relief?
A. 10% B. 25% C. 50% D. 75%
Answer: C. According the American Pregnancy Association, more than half of pregnant women opt for an epidural throughout the course of their labor.
How long is the average first-time labor?
A. 12 hours B. 16 hours C. 20 hours D. 24 hours
Answer: B. The average labor for a first-time mom is 16 hours, though it can vary.
When is a pregnancy considered full term?
A. 35 weeks B. 36 weeks C. 37 weeks D.38 weeks
Answer: C. Delivery before 37 weeks is considered preterm.
Lauren Greenlee is an Olathe boy mom of four whose birthing experiences have run the gamut: one traditional hospital birth, another at a freestanding birthing center and yet two more via home birth. Nowadays, she can be found running after her busy brood during the daytime and writing at night.