While both obstetricians (OBs) and midwives care for people during pregnancy and birth, their approaches and training differ. OBs are medical doctors trained to manage both routine and high-risk pregnancies, often within a hospital setting. Midwives specialize in caring for healthy, low-risk pregnancies and approach birth as a normal physiological process rather than a medical event.

Midwifery care tends to be more personalized, with longer visits, a strong emphasis on informed choice, and continuity of care from the same provider throughout your pregnancy, birth, and postpartum period. At Saige Birth Center, we follow the midwifery model of care—centered, respectful, and deeply supportive of your body’s natural wisdom.

Our midwife is licensed by the state of Louisiana to practice independently and provide full-scope perinatal care for low-risk clients. When necessary, we collaborate with trusted healthcare providers to ensure you receive seamless, respectful care at every step.

We offer comprehensive perinatal care, which includes prenatal visits, birth support, and postpartum care. You can choose to give birth either at our freestanding birth center or in the comfort of your home. Our care is grounded in the midwifery model—personalized, evidence-based, and centered around your choices. We also provide holistic education, breastfeeding support, and continuous guidance throughout your journey.

Most healthy women with low-risk pregnancies are excellent candidates for midwifery care. In Louisiana, all clients must first have an initial visit with an obstetrician and complete basic lab work to confirm that their pregnancy meets the criteria for low-risk care outside the hospital. This is a requirement of the state and helps ensure that midwifery care is a safe option for you and your baby.

If you're unsure whether you're eligible, we’re happy to talk it through. Many specifics—such as your health history, previous births, or personal preferences—can be discussed during a free phone consultation or in-person visit. We’re here to help you understand your options and make the best choice for your birth.

Some medical or pregnancy-related conditions may make it safer to give birth in a hospital setting with access to specialized care. These might include chronic health issues like insulin-dependent diabetes, high blood pressure, certain heart conditions, or a history of major complications in previous births.

Additionally, due to current state regulations, licensed midwives in Louisiana are not permitted to attend VBACs (vaginal births after cesarean), breech births, or multiple gestations (twins or more) in an out-of-hospital setting. If any of these apply to your pregnancy, we will help connect you with a trusted provider who can offer safe, respectful care within a hospital.

Our goal is always to support you in making informed decisions and to ensure the safest environment for your birth. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, we encourage you to reach out for a consultation—we’re happy to answer your questions and walk you through your options.

Yes, we do accept insurance and are happy to work with you to make care as accessible as possible. We are currently in-network with Cigna and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana, and we're actively working to expand our network to include United Healthcare, UMR, and Louisiana Medicaid. Many health share plans also cover our services in full.

Please note that insurance typically reimburses a portion of your care, and the amount can vary based on your plan, deductible, and coverage. Depending on your insurance, you may pay more or less out of pocket. We are accepting insurance to cover a portion of the fees, and we can help you understand what to expect based on your specific plan.

For those who are self-pay, we offer a discounted rate to make care more affordable. We also provide flexible payment plans and are committed to working with you to ensure you have the support you need, financially and beyond.

If you have questions about your specific insurance coverage or want help navigating the process, we’re here to assist.

While our transfer rate is low, there are times when a transfer to the hospital becomes the safest option. The majority of transfers are non-emergent and are most often made out of an abundance of caution. Transfers may happen during labor, or occasionally before labor begins if something changes in your risk status during pregnancy.

If a transfer is needed, we will guide the process with calm, compassionate care. We will communicate directly with hospital providers to ensure a respectful, seamless transition.

Emergency situations are rare, but we are trained and fully equipped to respond quickly and appropriately if they arise. Above all, our commitment is to your safety, your baby’s well-being, and your sense of being cared for—no matter where your birth unfolds.

Regardless of where you give birth, you’ll still receive your full postpartum care with us, including follow-up visits, breastfeeding support, and gentle guidance as you recover and transition into life with your baby.

Absolutely. We believe birth is a family-centered experience. You're welcome to include those who make you feel most supported and at ease—whether that's your spouse, partner, children, doula, family, or a close friend.

Getting started is easy! The first step is to schedule a free tour and consultation so we can learn more about you, answer your questions, and help you determine if Saige Midwifery & Birth Center is the right fit for your birth.

It’s ideal to begin care early in pregnancy, but it’s never too late to reach out. We welcome clients transferring from OB care at any stage of pregnancy, as long as they meet the criteria for low-risk, out-of-hospital birth. Even if you’re well into your third trimester, we’re happy to talk with you and see if midwifery care is still an option.

We’re here to support you wherever you are in your journey—with warmth, respect, and no pressure.

Ready to take the next step?
Schedule a free consultation and let’s start planning the birth experience that feels right for you.