Frequently Asked Questions…

WHEN SHOULD I ESTABLISH CARE?

Once learning they are pregnant, a lot of people find themselves wanting support right away. Answers to questions about symptoms, help in managing common discomforts, as well as receiving reassurance about what’s “normal” can be valuable and bring peace of mind when everything is brand new.

In addition, lab work is offered and ultrasound orders can be provided for folks wanting to obtain certain information, such as a confirmed due date, genetic testing (if chosen), and baseline blood tests. Some of these things are time-sensitive, so establishing a relationship early can ensure that you have as many options open to you as possible.

DO YOU OFFER A FREE CONSULTATION SO WE CAN LEARN MORE BEFORE WE SIGN ON AS CLIENTS?

Yes! Please call, text, or use the contact page here to send a message if you would like to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

DO YOU ACCEPT ALASKA MEDICAID / DENALI KID CARE, OR OTHER INSURANCE?

Yes, I accept Alaska Medicaid, Denali Kid Care, and, as part of my services to clients, do bill many other private insurance companies as an out-of-network provider. Please reach out if you’d like more individualized information about your particular insurance coverage. Unfortunately, I cannot accept Tri-Care.

WHAT IF I JUST SELF-PAY OR DON’T HAVE INSURANCE?

I offer payment plans as well as a discount for early pay-off. If you pay for my services directly and you desire it, I can provide superbills for you to turn into your insurance company for reimbursement.

IS MY HOUSE ADEQUATE FOR A PLANNED HOME DELIVERY?

Your home does not have to be big or fancy for it to be safe for home birth. What it does need is functional heat in wintertime, safe access to the front door, to be in a service area for EMS, and to have cell service or a land line. Practically everything else is negotiable, though it is important that you feel safe and comfortable there.

DO I HAVE TO BUY ANYTHING SPECIAL FOR THE BIRTH?

I do ask clients to purchase a custom birth kit of disposable supplies from a third-party company before 36-weeks gestation. If this is a hardship, please tell me. The birth kit costs around $100-$150, depending on whether or not you plan to use my birth pool in labor (in which case, you will need to purchase a disposable tub liner for approximately $60, as well as a couple of other items). I will give you more details so that you can prepare for this before your birth.

WHAT AREAS DO YOU SERVE?

Anchorage, Girdwood, Eagle River, Chugiak and points between Eagle River and Palmer, and the greater Mat-Su Valley as far as the north side of Wasilla (I do serve the Hatcher Pass area from the Palmer Fishhook side, but not Willow).

I HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT SAFETY AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS. WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE?

Please visit the page dedicated to this topic here. It’s important to make an informed choice about birthing outside of the hospital. Please contact me if you have further questions that would help in your decision-making process, and take advantage of the free, no-obligation consultation I offer to all prospective clients.

CAN MY OTHER CHILDREN OR PETS BE PRESENT AT THE BIRTH?

Absolutely! It is your birth, and of course your wishes will be honored regarding who should be in attendance. It is a good idea for any children present to have someone there specifically to provide for their needs, so that you can completely focus on the task at hand.

DO YOU SUPPLY A BIRTH POOL IF I WANT A WATER BIRTH?

Yes! I have an inflatable tub that I provide for clients wanting that option. If you choose this, you will need to buy a disposable liner and a clean hose to fill the tub with, as well as fittings for your faucet to connect it. I will provide more information before the fact.

DO YOU ENCAPSULATE PLACENTAS?

Yes, this is a separate service I provide to the community, both for my own midwifery clients, and people receiving care elsewhere. You can find general information about that here, and answers to frequently asked placenta questions here.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I HAVE TO TRANSFER TO THE HOSPITAL IN LABOR?

In the event of a transport, I will accompany you and provide continued support for the duration of labor. Although clinical aspects of your care will be handed over to the physician who assumes responsibility when we transport, I will become your doula and stay with you to provide comfort and advocacy. Once you return home, I can resume postpartum care as originally planned, for both you and your newborn.

WHEN SHOULD I ESTABLISH CARE WITH A PEDIATRICIAN?

Even though I can provide well-newborn care during the postpartum period, I do recommend you find a pediatrician you like while you are still pregnant. It’s a good idea to have this relationship in place in case any issues arise that you would like to consult with them about. And once the scope of my care ends, you will need someone in that role who you feel comfortable with.

I AM PREGNANT AND THINKING ABOUT SWITCHING FROM MY CURRENT CARE PROVIDER. IS THERE A DEADLINE FOR THAT?

It is perfectly fine for you to change care providers at any time; it’s never too late until the baby is out! That said, if it is possible, having more time to get to know a provider before birth is always preferable for all involved. Listen to your instincts, and if you sense your needs could be better met somewhere else, that’s an important signal to pay attention to.

WHERE CAN I READ ABOUT OTHER PEOPLE’S EXPERIENCES OF WORKING WITH YOU?

I’m so glad you asked! Testimonials can be found here.

WHAT IS NEWBORN BLOODSPOT TESTING, AND WHERE DO I LEARN MORE?

This is a test done between 24-48 hours of age, that checks for 52 different metabolic disorders in the infant. It involves a heel poke to collect drops of blood on a special card that is mailed in to a lab.

Here is a link to more information: https://health.alaska.gov/en/services/newborn-bloodspot-screening/