Is a Birth Center Safe? What First-Time Moms Need to Know
If you’re pregnant for the first time, congratulations! You’re probably getting a lot of advice and have a lot of questions, especially when it comes to choosing your birthplace. Will it be your home, the hospital, or a birth center?
Birth centers are gaining popularity due to the added comfort and unmedicated birthing experience. However, one of the most common concerns we hear from first-time moms considering a birth center is: “Is it safe?”
If this is your first ever experience with birth, it’s a fair question. Let’s explore the answer together!
Are birth centers safe?
Simply put, the birth center can be a very safe place to give birth. However, this is subject to whether or not you meet the criteria for a low-risk pregnancy.
A low-risk pregnancy is when you have no pregnancy-related complications, no medical conditions that could complicate pregnancy, and have a singleton pregnancy that is at term.
Pregnancies that don’t meet the above conditions might not be safe for birth center births. Each client is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
How do birth centers keep you and your baby safe?
Birth centers have established standards of care that they must adhere to. This ensures mothers receive the appropriate level of care throughout pregnancy and birth.
Here’s how safety is built into the birth center model:
- Careful Screening
Every prospective client is screened to ensure they have a low-risk pregnancy that qualifies for the birth center. Our midwives do a thorough assessment to make sure you’re a suitable candidate for a natural birth.
- Trained Professionals
Midwives at birth centers are either Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs), Certified Midwives (CM), Certified Professional Midwives (CPM), or Licensed Midwives (LMs) trained in maternal and newborn care. They know how to manage normal births, provide routine prenatal care, and spot complications early.
- Emergency Protocols
Birth centers have medical supplies, medications, and oxygen on hand. If needed, they can quickly transfer you to a nearby hospital. Most birth centers, including Roots Community Birth Center, have strong working relationships with local OBs and hospitals for smooth transitions if things change.
- One-on-One Support
You’ll get continuous support throughout labor, which is linked to fewer interventions and better outcomes.
Midwives in birth centers are trained to watch closely for any signs that extra medical help is needed. And if something unexpected comes up? There are clear protocols in place to transfer you smoothly to a hospital. Rest assured, you won’t be alone! You’ll have a birth team by your side every step of the way.
Ready to start your care with us? Let’s book your appointment today!