Pregnancy is a miraculous journey for every woman, providing a unique and heartwarming experience you’ll treasure forever. Every mama-to-be has specific needs and particular wishes for giving birth. When going into labor, you will want to opt for the conditions and the environment you find the most comfortable. If you have started your research, you may have encountered Atlanta birthing centers in contrast to hospitals. Now, you probably want to know the features of each so you can make the right decision for you and your baby!
Making such a decision is a delicate task, so as an Atlanta newborn photographer I have decided to help new moms find the best solution for themselves. Here, I have discussed the notion of birthing centers in Atlanta and the differences between them and hospitals. You will understand what you need once you go through the blog!
About Atlanta Birthing Centers
Unlike hospitals, a birthing center is a healthcare facility where a woman can give birth in a home-like environment. It is based on the belief that women require minimal care when they are in labor, so they do not come with the same amenities as hospitals do.
Most birthing centers have private rooms with soft lighting, pleasant decor, and significant comfort. They are designed to make women feel at home rather than an ordinary healthcare facility. Moreover, the whole birthing process is not led by a doctor but by a midwife or a doula. These are also professionals who are trained to help women go through labor. However, they also get advice from obstetricians when it is needed.
Suppose you opt to give birth in one of the Atlanta birthing centers. In that case, you will stay in a private room from the beginning of your labor until delivery. These facilities also allow you to quickly head home after giving birth rather than waiting for a few days as you would do in a hospital.
The reason why many moms-to-be opt for delivery in a birthing center is due to the statistics that show that these facilities are safer than hospitals. Namely, hospitals are known for high rates of given births by cesarean section. On the other hand, birthing centers come with lower rates of vacuum extractions, medication, cesarean sections, and forceps deliveries.
These centers are considered relatively safe, and complications are infrequent. Many women choose them because they want a more natural and safer labor. Plus, they want to go through their journey by feeling every moment and getting an authentic experience of giving birth.
Difference Between a Hospital and a Birthing Center
Before deciding on the facility where you will deliver your baby, knowing the main differences between hospitals and birth centers is essential. You should understand what Atlanta birthing centers offer and how your birthing process will look if you opt for such an environment.
- Family-Centered Experience
Giving birth is an experience you want to share with your loved ones. That is precisely what birthing centers can provide you. Unlike hospitals that allow only one or two people with you, these facilities will enable you to share the joy with as many family members as you want. These moments are beautiful and memorable, and having close people by your side will make your journey more enjoyable.
- Comfortable Environment
Birthing centers are not surrounded by monitors, operation suits, and labor rooms. As I previously mentioned, they provide a homey environment to ensure comfort. Plus, a midwife will monitor your labor rather than doctors and nurses. Most importantly, birth centers do not proceed with cesarean sections a few minutes after the delivery does not turn out to go as smoothly as planned.
- Insurance
When it comes to deciding the place where you will give birth to your baby, costs should certainly be considered. Generally, your insurance will cover your expenses if you give birth in a hospital. However, many Atlanta birthing centers do not offer services that are covered by insurance. This means you should inform well about the cost before you have your final say.
Reasons to Pick a Birthing Center
Once you look into the differences between hospitals and birthing centers, you will have to pick one. Here are some reasons why a birth center might be a better choice for you:
- Relaxed Atmosphere: A birthing center is your ideal option when you want to give birth in a peaceful setting without any monitors.
- Low-Risk Pregnancy: If you have a healthy pregnancy and the delivery process is anticipated to go smoothly, you should use the benefits of a home-like environment.
- No Medical Procedures: Giving birth in a birth center is the best way to avoid medical procedures and complications.
- Constant One-on-One Care: At birth centers, you will be constantly monitored by a midwife, providing you with the ultimate care at all times.
Atlanta Birthing Centers
As you can see, there are some significant differences between Atlanta birthing centers and hospitals. If you want the ultimate labor experience, opt for more home-like establishments that provide the needed care. Giving birth is a magical time – you should get the most out of it!
While you are in the beginning stages of planning, think about your newborn’s first portrait memories. Head to my portfolio page to get inspired!
