If you’re curious about what it’s really like to have a home birth, this episode of the BeHerVillage podcast is for you. I sat down with Certified Nurse Midwife Michele Liot to get the inside scoop on all the practical details—things like the costs, how much space you need, and the part no one likes to talk about: the mess. If you’re considering home birth, or if you’ve got a partner or family member who needs some convincing, this episode is a must-listen.
LISTEN HERE
Let’s break down some of the key points we covered on the podcast, but trust me—you’ll want to hear the full conversation.
How Much Does a Home Birth Cost?
One of the first questions people have when considering a home birth is, “What does it cost?” Home birth midwives typically charge a fee between $2,000 and $12,000 depending on your location. This covers prenatal visits, labor and delivery, and postpartum care. It’s important to note that midwives often ask for part of this fee upfront because dealing with insurance can be a long and complicated process. However, with the right strategy, you may be able to get some or all of it covered. Michele shares some incredible tips on how to get your home birth midwife covered as an out-of-network provider—don’t miss that part!
LISTEN HERE
What Kind of Space Do You Need for a Home Birth?
Worried you don’t have enough space? You’ll be surprised to learn that you actually need very little room to have a baby at home. Whether you live in a large house or a small apartment, it’s possible to make it work. Michele reassures us that as long as there’s space for you to move around and for your midwife to access you, you’re good to go. Some parents even rent an Airbnb for their birth!
LISTEN HERE
What About the Mess?
This is often the elephant in the room—especially for partners who might be concerned about what happens after the baby is born. The good news? The mess is manageable! Michele explains the two-bag system: one bag for garbage (think Chux pads and other disposables) and one for laundry. The midwife and her team take care of everything, leaving your home clean and tidy. And if you use a birth pool, don’t worry—the midwife will bring a sump pump to remove the water quickly and efficiently.
If you're ready to dive deeper into these topics, listen to the full episode where we discuss all the nitty-gritty details of home birth that you may have been too afraid to ask about. This episode will help you and your loved ones feel prepared, confident, and maybe even a little excited about the journey ahead!
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