The short answer: It depends on the midwife, your state and your insurance. Ask each midwife for her fee and what it includes, and many midwives list their prices on their own websites. Most packages cover prenatal visits, the birth and postpartum care, and hospital or doctor charges are usually billed separately.
By Sybille Mom of two · first birth in a hospital, second at home · Education only, not medical advice
Money is one of those questions many of us feel a little shy asking. Please don't be. A good midwife expects it, and she'll walk you through it kindly. Knowing the numbers early means fewer surprises later, and more room to relax and enjoy your pregnancy.
Where to start
Home birth fees vary from one midwife to the next. What you actually pay depends on your insurance, your state and the midwife you choose. The quickest way to know is to ask each midwife for her fee and what it covers, then call your insurance company.
Where to see prices
Some midwives list their prices on their own websites, so you can see them before you call. Packages differ: some are all-inclusive, some include home visits, and some offer a lower price if you pay early or flexible payments.
Prices change, so always check with the midwife directly.
What's usually included
Most packages cover the whole journey with one person you get to know: your prenatal visits, labor and birth at home, and postpartum visits for you and your baby. Some include extras like home visits, a birth pool or a free book.
What's often billed separately
Every practice is different, so ask what falls outside the package. For example, one midwife's practice lists these as not included:
- Physician, hospital, lab and anesthesia charges
- Ambulance charges, if they're ever needed
- Routine labs, billed to insurance or at a discounted cash rate
- Childbirth class and doula fees
The money questions to ask
- What exactly does your fee include, and what isn't included?
- Do you bill insurance, or will you give me paperwork to send in myself?
- Do you accept HSA or FSA payments?
- Do you offer payment plans or a sliding scale?
- When is the deposit due, and is any of it refundable?
- What would I pay if my plans change partway through?
For me, the cost was about so much more than a birth. It was months of visits with women who paid attention to everything, and who could calm me down with a single message. That's worth asking about too.
Whatever you choose, talk it through with an experienced midwife and your care provider, and check with your insurance company before you sign anything.
Questions moms ask
Is a home birth cheaper than a hospital birth?
It depends on the midwife, the hospital and your insurance plan. Ask your midwife for her fee, and ask your insurance company what you'd pay for each option.
Does insurance pay for a home birth?
Sometimes. It depends on your plan, your state and your midwife's credential. Here's more on insurance and home birth.
Can I pay for a home birth over time?
Many midwives offer payment plans. Some ask for a deposit early in pregnancy and the rest by a set week. Just ask.
Can I use my HSA or FSA?
Some midwives accept HSA and FSA payments. Check with your midwife and your plan administrator.
Why do prices vary so much?
Prices depend on where you live, what's included (like home visits or a birth pool), and the midwife's credential and experience. Comparing what's included is as important as comparing the total.
