The Ricki Lake documentary, The Business of Being Born, changed my life.

I used to be scared of birth.  In fact, a few jobs ago, I worked at a maternity home with plenty of opportunity to attend a live birth.  But I refused; I was too nervous.

But then, before I was even married, I saw the film on Netflix streaming.  I cried at every birth.  It was beautiful.  It was then that I knew birth was wonderful, magical, and different than I had imagined.

All of the horror stories I heard growing up didn’t matter anyone.  It didn’t have to be that way.  I could choose my own dream birth.

Fast forward a few years.

I first chose my insurance plan simply on the financial factor.  I picked the one that had the cheapest out of pocket cost for maternity care, which ended up being Kaiser, an HMO.

I got what I paid for.  My prenatal care was less than desired.  I was lucky to see a midwife, but unlucky to only get a few minutes with her (or whoever was available) each time.  I hated going.  I strongly disagreed with their model of care.  I cried, and argued with my husband.  I wanted something more, something different – my dream birth. Continue Reading →