Bornbir Blog

Pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum articles for parents, doulas, lactation consultants, and other perinatal care providers.

Doula VBAC

How to Find A VBAC Doula? (2024 Updates)

Finding a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) doula involves a few steps. Here are some suggestions:Online Search: Start by searching online platforms that connect people with doulas. Websites like Bornbir have free directories where you can search for doulas by location and specialization.Ask for Recommendations: Reach out to friends, family, or other mothers who have experienced VBAC and ask if they can recommend a VBAC doula. Personal recommendations can provide valuable insights.Local Birth Networks: Check with local birth networks, support groups, or parenting communities. Attend prenatal classes or join online forums where you can connect with other expectant mothers who...

Doula

How to Get your First Doula Clients in 2024?

Is it hard to get clients as a doula? Not really! Getting your first doula clients involves a combination of networking, building a strong online presence, and showcasing your skills and qualifications. Here are some steps to help you attract and secure your first clients as a doula:Training and Certification:Ensure that you have completed the necessary doula training and certification. This will give you credibility and reassure clients that you have the required knowledge and skills.Create a Professional Website:Build a professional website that showcases your expertise, services, and testimonials from any previous clients or instructors. Include a biography, your training...

Doula Salary

How Much Do Doulas Make in 2024?

The income of doulas in the United States can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the demand for doula services in a particular area. Generally, urban areas with higher living costs and a higher demand for doula services may offer higher salaries. However, it's important to note that doula income is not only influenced by location but also by the doula's individual business practices, client base, and reputation.1. How much do doulas make a year?The annual income of doulas fluctuates based on their work frequency. On average, doulas in the United States make between $40,000 and $50,000...

Postpartum Doula

Questions To Ask A Postpartum Doula Before Hiring (Comprehensive 2024 Guide)

When hiring a postpartum doula in 2024, it's important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for you and your family. Here are some questions you may want to consider:Qualifications and Training:What training and certifications do you have as a postpartum doula?How many years of experience do you have in providing postpartum support?Availability:What is your availability in terms of hours and days per week?Are you available for overnight support if needed?Services Offered:What specific services do you provide as a postpartum doula?Can you help with breastfeeding support, newborn care, and postpartum recovery?Philosophy and Approach:What is your philosophy or...

Birth Doula Provider-Client Communication

Questions To Ask A Birth Doula Before Hiring (Comprehensive 2024 Guide)

When hiring a doula, it's important to ask questions to ensure that you find the right fit for your needs and preferences. Here are some questions you might consider asking a doula before making a decision:Experience and Training:How long have you been working as a doula?What type of training and certifications do you have?Can you provide references from previous clients?Availability:Are you available around my due date?Do you have backup arrangements in case you are unavailable?Approach to Birth:What is your philosophy or approach to childbirth?How do you support both natural and medicated births?Support During Labor:What kind of support do you typically...

Cost Insurance

Does Cigna Insurance Cover Doula?

The short answer is Yes! To find doulas near you that accept Cigna insurance in 2024, you can follow these steps:Contact Cigna: Call the customer service number on your Cigna insurance card to inquire about doulas that are covered under your plan. They can provide you with a list of in-network doulas.Use the Cigna Provider Directory: Cigna typically has an online provider directory on their official website. You can use this directory to search for doulas in your area who accept Cigna insurance.Match with Cigna insurance covered doulas: Known as the "Airbnb" of doula support simply answer a few questions...

Doula Insurance

Are doula Services FSA or HSA eligible?

Flexible spending accounts (FSAs), health savings accounts (HSAs), and health reimbursement accounts (HRAs) provide a valuable avenue for individuals to cover the costs associated with doula services. These accounts offer the opportunity for reimbursement when supported by a letter of medical necessity, ensuring that individuals can access the essential support provided by doulas during various stages of their healthcare journey.It's important to highlight that doula services are specifically eligible for reimbursement through FSAs, HSAs, and HRAs, making these financial tools instrumental in promoting holistic and supportive healthcare experiences. The inclusion of doula services in these accounts recognizes the significance of...

Doula Insurance

What is the Diagnosis Code or CPT Code for Doula Services?

All claims for doula services must incorporate the diagnosis code Z32.2 (encounter for childbirth instruction) to be eligible for payment consideration. Certified doulas meeting the eligibility criteria should submit billing using the relevant CPT code(s), accompanied by modifier -HD. Additionally, apply modifiers –U7 and/or -22 as applicable, based on the service(s) provided. 59409 - CPT® Code in category: Vaginal delivery only (with or without episiotomy and/or forceps)The diagnosis code for doula services would typically be related to the specific medical condition or situation for which the doula services are being provided. Doula services are often associated with support during childbirth,...

Insurance

How to Find Doulas Near me that Accept Blue Cross Blue Shield in 2024?

To determine if doula services are covered by your Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) insurance, you can follow these steps:Check Your Insurance Policy: Review your insurance policy documents, including the benefits summary or coverage details. Look for information related to maternity or childbirth services. Insurance policies vary, so it's essential to understand the specific coverage details provided by your plan.Contact Blue Cross Blue Shield: Call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card. Speak with a representative and inquire about the coverage for doula services. They can provide information on whether doula services are covered, any limitations,...

Insurance

Is a Doula a Qualified Medical Expense?

As of January 2024, doula services are generally not considered qualified medical expenses for tax purposes. Qualified medical expenses, eligible for reimbursement or deduction, typically include services or items that are directly related to the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease. However, you can get your insurance to pay for doula services and ask your medical provider to write you a medical necessity letter. Doulas, while providing valuable emotional and physical support during childbirth, are not typically classified as medical professionals. Therefore, their services are not usually recognized as qualified medical expenses for tax purposes. However, tax laws...