OK this is going to be a long (but VERY honest) review so bare with me. The care I received at Austin area birthing center was indescribable, in the best way. I truly felt so supported, so respected and loved during my entire experience. I transferred to Austin area birthing center around eight or nine weeks pregnant. I had received prior care with an OB/GYN and it was very impersonal. I didn't feel like she was listening to me and appointments were rushed. For years I've always told myself I wanted a natural birth but I never knew if I'd be able to do it. During my prenatal care all of my questions were answered everyone was so friendly so supportive and kind. This was my first baby and so I did a lot of research before going into labor and birth. I knew all the things that I didn't have to do and I knew all of the things that I wanted. At my 37 week appointment I asked for A cervical check even though I know I didn't necessarily need one. I was still working full-time and was experiencing some intense cramps a few days before and so I requested them to check. I was only a centimeter dilated so I figured I had time especially because it was my first baby. 38 weeks and three days at two in the morning my water broke. When I called the midwife on call she was super calm asked me how I was feeling the color of my water and if I was having contractions which I wasn't yet. She asked if I could meet her there in a few hours unless labor intensely progressed. Around 4 AM, I threw up, but I figured it was because I ate too much lasagna! Nothing I couldn't really handle, around five I called again because they were a minute apart and she met me there a few minutes later. She asked politely if she could check me to see how dilated I was but at the moment I was uncomfortable and so I denied. I had asked for a few minutes alone with my mom and my partner and they gave me the room to deal with the contractions on my own. About 15 minutes later, I told them they could check me and I was almost at 9 cm. Things progressed pretty quickly after that and I was in active labor for about five hours before my son came. The entire time they held my hand they listened to what I needed what I wanted and I was given exactly what I needed, every single minute during my entire labor. If there are any negative reviews, which I can't even understand how there could be, please read this one!!! I beg of you! I absolutely can't speak highly enough about the care I received. My son was born in a room filled with so much love and I couldn't be happier. All of my babies will be born here!! Rachel, Janae, Ellie, Betty, and Valerry. ADORE YOU. Will forever be grateful for you all over there. read more

Austin Area Birthing Center - Obstetricians & Gynecologists Near Me - Austin, Texas

See all

I'm athletic, normally 125 lbs, I eat well and exercise regularly. I have no health conditions and the birth was still a disaster. The months leading up to my delivery were fine. I felt supported by the midwives. It was the actually delivery that was severely botched. Looking back, isn't that all that matters? I met many of the midwives during Centering and check ups. I felt like they were helpful. On the night I went into labor, I timed my contractions, called my doula. She said to call the midwife. The midwife that night was someone I had never met. Her name was Jamie. From the second I got on the phone with her, I felt belittled. She said she didn't believe I was in labor and that I should wait. She said the fact that I could talk was a clear sign it was too early. But, she said, if I insisted that I was in labor then she would meet me at the birthing center. I dilated very early & was instructed by Jamie to push, push, push. On every contraction, push, push push. For something like four hours (until very early AM), I pushed. My room started to fill up with random people. I used the ball, I used the blow up peanut, I used the bathtub, I used the stool. In a cycle, one at time, I used each thing. Then, once I'd tried them all, I circled back around and tried them all again. Never resting. Just pushing. At some point in the early AM hours, Jamie's shift was over -- so she left! She simply walked in the room, and said "My shift is over and a new midwife will be here shortly". Erin, the new midwife showed up. I knew her and I liked her. However, her guidance simply started over from the exact same beginning place that Jamie had started from. On every contraction, push, push push. For something like four MORE hours. All over again, I used the ball, I used the blow up peanut, I used the bathtub, I used the stool. One at time, I used each thing then circled back around and tried them all again. Never resting. Just pushing. Some time the next morning, I said stop. I cannot go on. I'm dying. Call 911. "You're so close!!" They said, "Keep pushing". So, several hours later, some time around 1pm, I passed the point of exhaustion and was on the brink of insanity. I slid off the bed, onto the floor, onto my knees screaming. I prayed. I begged God, what do I do? I am dying. So, I asked the midwife, "Is the baby coming? Is she going to come out any second now?" "Oh no! No way. Not at all. We don't even see her head." The midwife said. It almost seemed like she thought the question was cute. Now, I have never given birth before and I've never been at a birth before. My experience is limited. But I knew enough to know, that was not right. That was not right! There is no reasonable medical professional, midwife or person who would instruct someone to push that hard and that long with ZERO progress. "Call 911" I demanded. "We're so close!" The midwife pleaded. "You wanted a natural birth so bad, we're so close. It will be at least an hour before you get any medication at all if you go to the hospital". "It's not the medication I want, it's my life. I'm done. I can't go on." I had pushed, in active labor, for 8 hours. Seven hours after the ambulance came and 2 additional hours of active labor, my healthy, beautiful baby girl was born. The hospital staff was incredible. They were disgusted that these midwives allowed me to push for that long and that hard with little progress. Turns out, my daughter was posterior. It took the doctor 5 seconds to determine this. How did the midwives miss this? Just keep pushing, they said! The blood vessels in my entire face were completely blown out. I looked like I had been in a boxing match. ABC was a complete shitshow. After being at the hospital and receiving the level of professionalism they offered there, this group of midwives felt like a room full of middle school girls playing "let's birth a baby". By the time I told them to call 911, my birthing room was full of 7+ people all trying to "help". I'm not saying you need to go to the hospital, but don't go here. And yes, we still had to pay 100%. read more

Austin Area Birthing Center - Obstetricians & Gynecologists Near Me - Austin, Texas

We had a wonderful experience at the Birthing Center and would recommend it to all expectant families. They accepted us late into our pregnancy (33 weeks) with no issues. All of the midwives are knowledgeable, friendly and just wonderful. We had originally planned to give birth at the hospital but the closer we got the more nervous I was about that. I wanted to take a more holistic approach and give my body the chance to do what it was designed to do and not be pressured into medical intervention and that is exactly what the birthing center offered! We gave birth to a healthy baby boy on the 4th or July all natural thanks to our wonderful midwife, midwife assistant and doula! read more

Austin Area Birthing Center - Obstetricians & Gynecologists Near Me - Austin, Texas

See all

DO NOT GO TO THE AUSTIN AREA BIRTHTHIN CENTER. It's been over a year, and they just randomly sent a $1,500 bill for absolutely no reason. Also, Advil costs over $60 for 2 pills. DO NOT GO HERE!!! They have hidden fees, lure you in with their front desk "nice greets," and then charge you fees that were never mentioned. read more

We just had our son here on Christmas Day. The experience we had during the birth great. I felt that my midwife and assistants were there if needed during labor but they allowed me to labor how I wanted to. During the birth they helped me get into the most effective position (it took a few position changes to see what worked best) and once he was born they had minimal interruptions which allowed me and my family some great bonding time. I enjoyed all aspects of care from prenatal to birth to 6 week postnatal visit. My husband and I felt well educated and I loved that the midwives just offered up information (because like a lot of moms I don't even know what to ask) it was a much different experience than my hospital birth and I recommend this place to all my pregnant friends. My husband was thrilled when he went to the first appt with me because they made him feel like a part of my birth team. Not a bystander. He was an active member of the birth and they helped him know how to help me during labor. read more

We had a WONDERFUL experience pre, during and post birth of our baby girl! The AABC team is like family and we couldn't imagine another birth experience anywhere else. Our center group was amazing and we have lasting relationships and meet ups regularly! Sam, Brittany, Erin, Meg, Megan, and the rest of the team are phenomenal! Like most other reviewers, unfortunately we are almost 7 months post birth and still haven't received a final bill. Sending weekly emails with hopes to get it reconciled ASAP. Highly recommend ! UPDATE: Within days of posting this review, I was contacted by the billing department regarding my final bill and am being issued a refund! read more

Beware of the billing/insurance side of things... We had our baby 8 months ago (non emergency transfer to hospital), and they have still yet to process our insurance. It took them about 4 months just to submit. We've been in contact with them via phone/email and much of the time we don't receive correspondence back. After looking at a facebook group of members, it became clear that we weren't alone. Many people were experiencing the same issue. I'll be submitting a complaint to the BBB, as something doesn't smell right about the whole situation. In terms of the actual birth and centering classes, we had an OK experience. It wasn't quite what I was expecting, but I think the midwives took good care of us. We'll probably go with hospital for our next. read more

Terrible experience. Completely UNETHICAL organization. We were, and still are, completely disappointed with AABC. We had a non-emergency transfer to hospital due to having an incapable midwife, but that's not why AABC is terrible. Great experience at the hospital though, which was a surprise to us. This review isn't because of having to transfer. This review is due to the unethical billing department. In the end, we paid for the birth of 2 babies and AABC got the full amount in cash from us, then the full amount from the insurance company when they filed the claim. An estimated 4-6K cost to birth at AABC we were told upfront, and in the end they got paid nearly 14K (our cash + insurance), and we had to pay the hospital too to meet our deductible. Our refund from AABC from them for being unable to deliver the baby (still haven't gotten it) is said to be $69. Really? Even though the staff is nice, the place is clean, and some people have had wonderful experiences, I could never recommend an organization that is this unethical. In the end, it is all about money to them. Crooked company's like this is why our healthcare system is expensive. Just go to the hospital, or find a good midwife and doula, and have your baby at home. read more

I had an awesome experience doing my prenatal care, delivery, and some postnatal care at AABC South. Centering gave me the chance to make friends with some very special people and feel really at home in the AABC space while learning a lot about pregnancy and labor. Each of the midwives I met was knowledgeable, caring, and someone I would have wanted to deliver my baby. Everyone supported me immensely when we realized my baby was breech, and they coordinated an appointment with Roswitha who flipped my baby with her hands! Since the baby had flipped, I was able to deliver at AABC. I was recieved twice for early labor contractions (and appropriately sent home) and then finally ended up at the center for a little under 24 hours. I did feel a bit rushed to leave at 7 in the morning after a midnight delivery (we were actually woken up by the medical assistant!) but considering the level of care we received, I'm over it. I will also add that we had some issues with billing. In fact, our baby is 8 months old and we were just contacted by Larsen billing and I am not sure why.... Everything was clean and comfortable, everyone was professional and compassionate, and we had a very empowering experience. read more

-UPDATE: Having our third baby here in April! Two waterbirths so far. We still feel at home when we walk in and could not ask for a better facility to bring such a blessing into this world with. I have been here many times through my three pregnancies with them. Never have I heard the staff talking down on any moms they are so uplifting and there for you in every way. I have never had to wait over ten minutes to be seen by a midwife 99% of the time they are right on time. When I have questions even silly ones they are always there to answer and take my call or if I am worried about the baby they let me come in last minute to make sure everything is just fine and give me a piece of mind. During labor I am never questioned about any of my wants, needs, or how I want to labor. They are beyond supportive! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND read more

I've used the birthing center twice and this second experience has really changed my view. I'm having a nightmare of a time with the billing department. My baby is almost 4 months old at this point and I can't get anyone from that department to call me back. My advice to you would be to get a good doula and a doctor/midwife you trust and you will be in good hands. The birth center doesn't seem to be able to handle their recent growth and it is apparent in many different ways. read more

I recently gave birth to our son at AABC and had an absolutely wonderful experience. Michelle (our midwife the morning he arrived) was amazing! She is so knowledgeable and made me feel completely at ease about the whole process. I also received outstanding care from all the other midwifes, birthing assistants, nurse, and staff throughout my pregnancy and postpartum. I felt incredibly prepared going into labor thanks to the Centering classes led by Felisa and have received tremendous support postpartum with baby development, breastfeeding, self care, etc. I also want to give a shout out to Leonora and Jessica who have been a constant support from the beginning. I also enjoyed the yoga classes while pregnant and plan to attend the baby love class soon. THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH!! read more

Don't go here unless you're statistically perfect. I was a well-woman care patient here for two years before I decided to get pregnant. The midwife did mention that they have a BMI cutoff, but that exceptions are made in some cases. Imagine my surprise and dismay when I informed them I was pregnant and it was like I didn't exist before and was a completely new patient. I had to schedule a "tour" of the facility and interview with a midwife. While I waited for that midwife to have time with me, I spent about 45 minutes in their not-very-soundproof waiting room listening to staff spew venom about patients. I understand everyone needs to gripe, but let's not do it when someone's in the waiting room and can hear you. Especially when that someone was in the category of people you're talking about. I'm overweight, and I know it. Apparently, fat patients are not welcome here, because everyone knows that overweight pregnant ladies immediately mean more hassle and higher risk. I overheard this midwife tell someone else that they were letting in too many questionably obese moms and that it was creating a whole lot more work. Then they talked about how they immediately risk out some patients and work with others because of their insurance status. Awesome. When the midwife finally showed up, I was in tears and just wanted to leave. I went through with the interview anyway. I was told to immediately go on a diabetic diet, despite not ever having had problems with blood sugar. I was told I was going to have a slow labor and a huge baby. I was told that I'd have to submit to a 2-hour GTT instead of the 1-hour standard test. I was told my weight gain would be carefully monitored. Listen, I understand statistics and know that statistically, I'm more likely to have GD, swelling, slow labors and the like, but this wasn't my first rodeo. I already had an uncomplicated pregnancy, an unmedicated, 5-hour labor and easy delivery at a hospital with an OBGYN - and they knew it. They had my records from my previous pregnancy. The midwife told me they'd discuss my case at their next meeting and get back to me. I left, and called my old OBGYN from the parking lot. She was awesome, and 7 months I had another uncomplicated, unmedicated delivery of an 7lb 15 oz baby at 40 weeks + 2 days. This place doesn't want you, and is too busy to care unless you fit in to their ideal, perfect model of pregnancy. read more

So, I've waited awhile (two years) to write this review because, frankly, I wasn't sure that I would. Having a baby is such an intimate event, and with it comes a lot of emotions and experiences, all of which intertwine; (bleed together... is there a better word, I mean, seriously??) into ONE BIG moment. A MONUMENTAL moment. A moment that...wait...I can hardly remember?? Anyway, how does one give a SINGLE "star" rating on a TEN month process?? My main reason for deciding to share was simple. I cannot stop thinking about one of my favorite allies through this entire experience, Vicki Meinhardt. This woman calmed my manic mind's incessant chatter and always managed to put a smile on my face, while alerting me of how ridiculous I was being. Don't misunderstand, I pride myself on being fairly level headed, refusing to research anything on the internet while pregnant, saving me from the millions of "What ifs?"; however, I would still find something to worry about, once I was up in those darn stirrups. "Why can't I feel my baby moving as much as the other women in my group?", "Why does my vagina itch so badly that it makes me want to shoot someone?" "So, what's the "real deal" with a little wine here and there? I mean, Europeans are doing it!" ;) DAMN those stirrups! That's right, through everything...yeast infections and all, I always laughed when she and I got together in the exam room. So for Vicki, I give this place 1000 stars! There are so many other wonderful women at AABC growing, thriving and teaching other wonderful woman in this "community," that I am now, and forever, a part of. If I could change just one thing about my experience here, it would be this: Due to the level of intimacy bringing life into this world involves, I would have liked to have chosen who delivered my son. While I realize this is is a RIDICULOUS request, and one that can only be met with hiring a private midwife, I just LOVED Vicki SO SO MUCH that I wished I could have wrapped her up WITH our beautiful boy and taken them BOTH home together. One last (BUT oh so not least) person who deserves the utmost praise is Renee Cook. This saint of a woman alleviated all of my worries concerning breast feeding ("Where is my milk??") etc. during the NUMEROUS trips she made to OUR HOME on MULTIPLE occasions to teach, and at times, simply to comfort me through those first few weeks of "What the hell is happening?" Renee, I hope you read this and remember us, and how much your presence meant to our new family. I had planned on stopping in to bring you some of those yummy orange-'sicles we chatted of, but alas, time escaped me. THANK YOU, Renee, for being YOU! Vicki and Renee and everyone else at AABC, we wish you the best, for helping us bring OUR BEST into this beautiful world. With more love than I could ever express in words, We thank you. Truly, Carly, Cassidy, and Foxy read more

The entire staff at AABC is outstanding. They all professionally care for you, the father and baby from the beginning until way after labor. These women are true heroes in their profession. Any expecting mother would be lucky to have them on their journey through pregnancy. From prenatal care, birthing classes, health concerns....and just plain listening to your questions and answering with care and trusted knowledge- I LOVE TEAM AABC! We are lucky to have such quality healthcare available in our community at an affordable cost. read more

I had an incredible experience with AABC! Katrina gave our tour - We loved her and the facility! We have stayed in touch with Katrina, our first face of AABC, and she feels like family! She made us feel comfortable about the facility and held my hand through the whole process. Then we met with Joanne and Sam to talk about what to expect delivering at AABC - we felt safe and comfortable. They answered all of the questions we had and educated us about the birth experience. Tiffany, at the front desk made billing a breeze - I even changed from private pay to insurance pay after a few visits and it was seamless! Katrina and Tiffany personally made sure any questions I had were answered and I looked forward to visiting with them! I miss seeing them regularly! They made me feel like I was part of the family. I can't say enough wonderful things about the facility or the staff. Viola, Charlotte, Rosthwita, and Erika were incredible. I felt like I was in very capable hands with these women. They are encouraging, smart, confident, comforting and capable. It was nice to get to know each of the midwives at each checkup, but I'm positive the midwife you deliver with is the one you were supposed to have :) Erika was on call the day I went into labor. It was such a beautiful and peaceful labor! Erika has a soft and caring personality that was comforting during labor. Her experience and gentle personality were absolutely perfect for us. I can't imagine a labor being any better than it was. We LOVE Erika and will find her for the next one. If you are on the fence about a birthing center birth, I describe it as a bed and breakfast experience rather than a sterile hospital environment. I felt like I was with family rather than doctors who won't remember me and several nurses in and out of the room. Most of my friends and family thought I was crazy for giving birth at a birthing center, but keep in mind it is YOUR choice. Having a baby is not a medical procedure (if you are healthy with no problems). It is as natural as puppies, kittens, and cows being born. I chose to have an anxiety and drama free delivery with my husband at AABC and enjoy the experience of life. It was amazing. read more

I have never felt more cared for than I do at AABC! I've been going to them for my well woman check ups, and when I fell pregnant I KNEW I'd be delivering with them as well! The personal one-on-one focus and attention to detail is unmatched. They really, honestly care about me and my pregnancy. No matter who I speak with, it feels like they could be my mom, sister or best friend. Every midwife has her own unique loveliness to her, Brittany is the best lab tech EVER and all the front desk staff are super professional and knowledgable. I am in LOVE with these women. I can't wait to give birth in a few months and share my joy with these fine caregivers. Praise Austin Area Birthing Center!!! read more

Austin Area Birthing Center - 4 months and healthy as can be! Thank you AABC!! - Obstetricians & Gynecologists Near Me - Austin, Texas

We went to the south (William Cannon) birth center for a tour in late 2014 and immediately were impressed with both their facilities, medical accreditations and with the honest and integrity of the midwives we spoke with. They spoke honestly about this being the place to go if you want to try for a natural birth. We were told that in first time Moms, a little upwards of 10-15% will end up transferring to the hospital for one reason or another. So we joined the pre-natal centering classes where we got to hang out and discuss all aspects of birth, labor, pregnancy and parenting with a number of other coms and couples every few weeks, as well as have comprehensive health checks to make sure baby was as healthy as mom. Towards the end of pregnancy, we attended some of the classes for newborn care and they also have breastfeeding, cloth diapering and other informal classes. Every visit we got to meet with the different midwives as you don't know who'll be available when your time comes. Every one of them was refreshingly honest and willing to listen to every question and concern we had. Then at the end of April 2015, our baby decided to come. from the moment we arrived, late on a Saturday evening, we loved the quiet, calm, lights dimmed environment. So many options in the birthing rooms, balls, birthing stool, bed, shower, bathtub, we could play our own music, have the AC just what Momma needed. Labor was tough and they helped making some tough decisions throughout the process and ultimately led to a wonderful natural delivery. Midwives Meg and Leonora are astounding women, both are CPM and LM and both so understanding and good at listening and seeing what the right course is. And special thanks to the birthing assistants Salkanna and Michelle, right there when we needed them. Post birth you get multiple home visits from the wonderful Renee, a registered nurse and lactation consultant who was invaluable in listening to our needs and then sharing her years of advice and stories about latching during breastfeeding. She is a true wonder and never makes you feel rushed or stressed. She is a real life fairy godmother. This is a review, not just heaping praise on the AABC, so what negative things are there about the process, virtually nothing, looking back, tiny things like a little step to help get into the tub or onto the bed whilst laboring, slightly more flexible times for centering classes may be useful for others. But overall a wonderful place with wonderful people. And after birth it doesn't end, we intend to go to their baby love classes, daddy and baby class, breastfeeding meetups and more. If baby number 2 decides to come one day, this is the only place I would ever consider. read more

I feel blessed to have come across the ABC. This being my 1st child and coming from NZ I was unsure of what to except with birthing in America. My husband came across the ABC. We decided to go and get a tour. As soon as I walked through the door and was greeted from the friendly staff, I new this was the place. From day one, I found all the midwives to be caring, helpful and supportive. The knowledge the midwives have is huge. Going into my birth I was aware of what may happen, even after birth. I always had lots of questions and they always had the answers for them, the knowledge of the midwives was awesome and gave me a lot of comfort and confidence. They were always there for me 100% during my visits. They asked me what I would like to do with the placenta. I had no idea that you could do something with it. They explained options and with some research and reading of the benefits I decided to get it encapsulated. During the birth having the options to move around from the bed to the shower and the bath, or to stand or lay in different positions was the best. To be able to have my husband beside me on the bed and being able to be a big part with the birth meant the world to me. Our midwife was so supportive and encouraging during labor and the birth. I NEVER felt unsafe at anytime. I felt like ABC are extended family The hardest part for me is it ended Id like to be still going in to visit I will be going back for baby number 2 and would recommend them to anyone who wants a natural child birth. read more

AABC is THE BEST! I would wholeheartedly recommend anyone who is having a baby or thinking about having a baby or who even has a uterus that might someday hold a baby go here! Basically, if you're a woman...go here. AABC has the most wonderful, knowledgable and caring staff. There is not one person at AABC that did not go above and beyond to make me and my husband feel welcome and at ease. We started our prenatal journey at a traditional OBGYN office before making the switch...and I'm so glad we did! AABC really makes you feel like you are a part of a community. Going there makes you feel inspired and empowered! There are so many great things about AABC. The pre and postnatal care, the birthing experience and environment, the staff, the prenatal classes (there are tons...yoga, cloth diapering, first aid, birthing, etc.) and the mamas you meet along the way are all what make birthing with AABC amazing. BUT one of the BEST things about AABC is that they offer a program called Centering, which is basically like having your regular prenatal appointments, but instead of going at it alone (which can be daunting) you do the appointments with a group of moms and dads. These group appointments allow for open communication amongst the group so it's a great place to bond, share ideas and ask those questions that you had planned to ask in your appointment then forgot but then felt relieved when one of your group members also had the same question and she remembered it! Oh the prego-brain...it's a real thing! And...don't worry...you also have plenty of one-on-one time at Centering with the midwives to ask more private questions and to get to know about your individual progress through pregnancy. Centering was so fun and educational and helped foster a lasting community of moms and dads that I can now call my friends. We still get together as a group, which is so fun since we've all had our babies now. I literally just got home from a group play date and springtime photoshoot. The whole idea of Centering has made me wish that ALL of healthcare could be like that. If only I could find a pediatrician who wanted to do Centering. I am forever thankful to everyone at AABC that made my experience there such a positive one. And I will DEF be having baby number two at AABC! read more

I gave birth to my precious daughter here a few weeks ago and can't stop telling people what a fantastic experience it was to deliver at the AABC. The prenatal care is fantastic, all the midwives take time to get to know you and offer valuable advice on healthy eating and keeping well. There is free yoga for expecting moms and a great focus on a woman's ability to birth naturally. I felt very prepared and confident to birth naturally and when it came time for D-day everything went without a hitch. My midwife was excellent and supportive. I had the birth I had always dreamed of and felt totally empowered as a woman. The post natal care is fantastic too, I went home 6 hours after delivery (that's what we wanted) and had a home visit 2 days later from the lactation consultant. read more

I left my OBGYN to have my baby at AABC. I am so glad I did! They try and make sure you meet all the midwives so when the big day comes you see a familiar face. You always feel welcome and the atmosphere was always calm and relaxed. They offer a centering class for all the moms and dad's with the same due date month. This class is extremely helpful. It was nice to be with a group of parents-to-be and know you are not alone in the process. Our class (due dates were in Oct 2015) has a Facebook group and we still chat, post pics, ask questions and support eachother! I plan to have #2 at the birthing center when that time comes. I would absolutely recommend this birthing center if you are pregnant or considering pregnancy. read more

I've now had 2 children with AABC and both times were an amazing experience. The midwives listen to you and prepare with and your significant other for labor and delivery. They encourage you throughout pregnancy and labor and make sure that you know you can deliver naturally. There is no pressure to have any interventions. They also assist you with breastfeeding, for me this is an awesome thing because each time it was a little hard to get past the first few weeks. The birth rooms are nice and homey. You are free to labor and deliver wherever you want. If you stay hydrated you might not even have an IV. Making the move from OB-GYN to birth center was the best decision I could have ever made. I live 2 hours away and drive in for every appointment, but it is totally worth it. read more

Unfortunately we were really unhappy with the care at the birthing center and I think the reason there aren't more negative reviews is because, like the other 2 couples we know who attempted to deliver there, by the time you're all done and have a newborn you just want to be done with it and put it behind you. The care from the beginning was very impersonal and was that way until the end. They push very hard to join their "centering" group which I believe is so they don't have to offer the type of personal care that midwifery is really about. I had a normal pregnancy and went into labor at 41 weeks. I labored for 13 hours at home before arriving at the center. We did not have an assistant for 9-10 out of the 18 hours I was in labor at the birthing center which is something that you pay for and are promised. This meant that my husband was tearing tape and assisting our midwife throughout my labor. Our midwife was kind but seemed inexperienced, we had only met her once before. She struggled with my IVs and eventually took her gloves off so my blood was running over her bare hands while she stuck me in different places trying to get an IV in. I'm not a germaphobe but that just seems wrong. It definitely felt like the situation was not under control and more than once during the night she told me that another, more experienced midwife whom I'd seen quite a few times during my prenatal care was coming in but she never came. Eventually we left and drove ourselves to St. Davids in the morning. Although we had minimal care while at the center, no assistant nor additional, more experienced midwife, once we were at the hospital they kept sending people from the center up, 3 in total, that I'd never met who did nothing but crowd the delivery room up and keep me awake when I should have been resting. What a relief to finally be in competent care though at St. Davids. After our baby was born and we were home we went to the center for a post partum visit which was also a disaster. His blood sugar was low and a hematoma had appeared on his head so they sent us to dell children's- even though later we learned that his blood sugar was so low he could have been seizing they didn't give us a bottle to feed him in the car. In fact the only reason they sent us was for the hematoma which was harmless and not even for the blood sugar numbers. The reaction from the doctor and nurses at dell was when we really started to feel like the care was incompetent at the birthing center. Within a few hours people from the birthing center (again some I had never even met) were texting asking me to release my medical records to them and wanting to know exactly what his blood sugar numbers were. People if you've ever been in the NICU with your newborn you know that the last thing on your mind is signing some document so the incompetent people at the birthing center have the information. Once we got home AGAIN with our baby I developed mastitis and texted the last AABC nurse we'd seen asking her what I should do and she told me to contact the on call person. After that i decided not to return to the center and found a midwife for my post partum care. The midwife who was with me throughout my labor left me a voicemail 6-8 weeks later, clearly with chart in hand, saying, oh hi just checking on you and I see here you have mastitis so if you have any questions just call. She barely knew who I was. I don't need hand holding or a home visit but this was just too much. AABC is all about the money. The midwife I saw the most during my pre natal care never once checked on us after the birth of my son. The midwife who was with us for 18 hours of my labor called me almost 2 months later, seeming mildly confused about who I even was and asking about a medical issue that I'd had weeks before and had ultimately dealt with on my own. This is not what midwifery is about. Do yourself a favor and find a real midwife who will actually care about you, remember who you are, and offer the support a new mom needs, especially when things go off the rails. Or just have your baby at a hospital like st. Davids where every wish we had was respected. One last thing- twice during my pre natal care they sent me to a maternal fetal medicine specialist for a higher quality sonogram because their machines weren't good enough to see what they needed to see. Each visit was close to a thousand dollars for us out of pocket, simply because they haven't invested in newer sonogram machines, there was nothing wrong with the fetus. Even the doctor we went to said he's told them they need better equipment. read more

I came into the practice of AABC very very late in my pregnancy. 35 weeks to be exact. It was a long battle to get my insurance to cover the costs so once they gave me the go ahead, I was immediately taken in and got a chance to have a visit with almost all the midwives. What. An. Experience. I highly recommend any mom or mom to be to go this route over a hospital. I had my first son at a hospital with standard OB care. I remember spending more time in the waiting room than actually with my OB. I ended up being induced with my first as well and that was a painful experience that almost ended with a c section. I wanted a more holistic approach my second time around. When you see the midwife, don't expect a 5 minute visit. These are actual visits where you get to relax and ask as many questions as you can as well as getting knowledge from the midwife. My husband and I took a birthing class as a refresher even though I've never experienced what natural labor felt like. But, the teacher gave us so many techniques to help through labor, I ended up not using any of them because I had my baby less than an hour after showing up to the birthing center! But it was okay, even with a fast and hard labor my midwife Michelle Gold was phenomenal. She and her assistant let me labor in any position I wanted along with lots of affirmations that me and my baby were safe. I wasn't hooked up to a bed, I was able to lean on my husband and eventually labor and deliver in the tub. It was such an intense moment but looking back, it was the most powerful and fulfilling moment in my life. I felt like I got back what I had lost from my first pregnancy. Thank you so much ladies, this is something I'll never forget and I look forward to using AABC for my third time around! read more

The most beautiful day in my life was giving birth to our baby, Louella. She was born on June 19th, 2012 at the south Austin Area Birthing Center. It was short but very intense birth. Around four hours after arriving to the birthing center, I was ready to push, but it took me more than two hours to push her out. It was the most powerful, wild, amazing and happiest experience I've ever had. I'm immensely grateful to the women who guided and encouraged me. Thank you Vicky, for your wonderful energy and knowledge about birth, for believing in me, and for the love and passion for what you do. Thank you Meg, Joan and Scottie for being part of the coolest birth team, for taking care of me and being so nice and gentle but strong at the same time. You all are a source of inspiration for me. Also thank you Michelle, Samantha, Stacy, Britney and all the AABC staff for being so nice with us. The south Austin Area Birthing Center is a great place to have your baby. All the midwifes are excellent and the facilities are beautiful. We felt like being at home. They take really good care of their future mamas. read more

When the "Surprise! We're pregnant!" news came up, I knew nothing about where I could go to have my baby naturally. I thought I'd have to have a home birth to avoid a hospital, and I wasn't really looking forward to that. When I first checked out AABC I was surprised and comforted. Vicki Meinhart, one of the midwives, answered all of our questions and frankly impressed the heck out of us with her knowledge on the kinds of things we were concerned about. There were no interventions without our express permission or in case of dire need. They have a good relationship with St. David's central hospital, so the doctors and nurses there tend to be as respectful of the family's wishes in case of an emergency where transport would be needed. We had out baby in September, and it went beautifully. After months of birthing classes and prenatal yoga (both included in the overall price--they take insurance too!) I felt so prepared and confident, I was able to focus entirely on the birth and, afterwards, on our new baby. The midwives and assistants were focused, knowledgeable and caring. The room was cozy, with a large birthing tub with handles, a large bed, and a shower big enough to have a party in. My labor was short, but even then I labored in the tub and on the bed. We were able to stay the night since the birth was late, my husband and baby girl and I all snuggled in the king-size bed. We were home safe and sound the next morning. They took care of the 3-day and 2-week visit. They sent a nurse out to our house for the 3-day visit so we didn't have to come into town when I was trying to heal and when our baby was so young and vulnerable. They referred us to all kinds of specialists and reading materials for whatever needs we had, so again I felt prepared...even when I came down with mastitis and had to call AABC to find out what I needed to do. They take very good care of mommies there and are very good about including the partners in as many aspects of the birth as possible. Even after you give birth, the center keeps offering help. There are postpartum yoga classes, and classes that focus on three levels of children, called baby love, crawler love and toddler love. All of these are also included. We're in the baby love classes now, where mommies converge to give their new babies gentle massage, but most importantly get a chance to have a support group of other mommies and an instructor to ask questions, voice concerns and share stories. I couldn't have imagined that such a wonderful pregnancy/birth/postpartum experience was possible in Austin, but it's been wonderful. I would recommend them highly to any family. read more

I've heard amazing things about AABC but in order to prevent someone else from being as hurt as I was I'd like to say that if you are any larger than a size 14, you will be considered high risk and will not be able to use their birth center. I lift weights and work out daily making my BMI higher. We all know that BMI describes exactly how a woman's body will look and what her health will be like. Surely someone who eats healthily and works out daily must be "morbidly obese" if their BMI describes her as such. I'm a size 16. One size larger than the average woman. I was told, in a nice manner, that the fat in my belly will be so much that a heartbeat would be difficult to hear. In other words, regardless of what I see in the mirror and what society is trying to teach our daughters not to think - one number described me enough to write me off. I will be going with Birthwise. They do not judge a birth center birth on something so archaic as BMI. The reason I added a star is because the owner, Jean, was extremely nice and offered to reevaluate my case. However, I was told the same thing again. Again, no one looked at me, it was all based on a number. To be fair I had other 'risks' such as "advanced maternal age." 35 is geriatric in case you were wondering, but AABC doesn't count you out on age. Apparently that number is fine. Ageism isn't their problem. Being fat, is. If you have a low BMI, go with AABC. They won the Austin Birth Award - so they're good, as long as you fit into the box. read more

AABC is very near and dear to my heart: I received my prenatal education and care here (in a unique group setting called Centering), and labored here as well. The staff and community is very supportive and remains so today through meetups, online groups, etc. All in all, I could not recommend them more...I was prompted to write a review today because the quality of care/decision-making was called into question in another forum, and I could not disagree more. My experience in short: After about 12 hours of laboring at home, we drove to the center and arrived just an hour before my natural induction appointment (I was just shy of 42 weeks). We settled into the music room; it was an intimate, comfortable experience. I labored in the bed, in the shower on the ball, in the tub...I had every intention of delivering naturally, but it was not in cards for baby and I. After about 30 hours total a hospital transfer was necessary. My husband and I were involved in all decision points (manual breaking of my water, natural induction techniques, etc.) I feel everything possible was done so I could have the labor I originally intended, but in the end, medical intervention was necessary. I will never forget the bumpy ride to Seton Main, and I cried when I got the epidural I was so relieved. My doula and a midwife came with us; I was grateful to have their support, especially since my experience at the hospital was 180 degree from the center: where there was peace, now chaos (noise, wires, machines, people, confinement...).The next step was pitocin but we never made it that far: baby was having trouble and c-section was recommended. All parties were given a chance to discuss privately and we all agreed it was the best option. At the clock ticked into Halloween, we had our little girl...I was there for a couple of days and continued to receive support from the birthing center: I was visited and contacted, and one of the midwives helped me secure my placenta for encapsulation. They also send out a lactation consultant to your house as an additional follow up. A celebratory meet up with all the couples and their new babies was a perfect bookend to our group meetups. While wasn't the exact birth I'd planned on, I am at absolute peace with it, a hope I have for every mama. My partner and I discussed every possible scenario in our birth plan so regardless of the stress of the present moment, we'd previously walked through all the decision trees and understood the necessity/risks/benefits of each. Aside from that, my partner and I had COMPLETE faith in the knowledge and experience of the AABC staff every step of the way...Sadly, I learned today that not every mama is at peace with their birth story, and this breaks my heart. But this (partial) response by one of the midwives was touching and truthful and reinforces that I made the right decision to have my baby with AABC: "It is easy to imagine alternate birthing scenarios that might have been closer to what some of you were each envisioning but, as with so many experiences in life, only a small portion of what occurs is actually ours to control. As midwives we are constantly assessing what decisions and actions will best serve a mother and her baby and which are most likely to preserve their physical and emotional integrity. We make these decisions with the help of a set of protocols that are constantly being revised and are based on the most current evidence...Midwives care for low risk women. We are bound by law, our accreditation, and the midwifery model of care to constantly assess the risk status of women and babies in our care. We would no longer be operating as a safe facility if we did otherwise...Motherhood brings us face to face with so much power and powerlessness. This is inevitable. Whatever your experience and whatever your grief, anger, or sadness, please know that our intention is now and has always been to serve you with our emotional presence and our clinical decision-making. We are all humans and are engaged in the most human endeavor. A decision which seems imperfect now may seem perfect in 10 years. The reverse may also be true. In light of that, the most healing thing we can do is stand with other women, lift them up, and treat our own bodies with respect and kindness." read more

Sam Germany is a wonderful, knowledgeable midwife, I highly recommend her for your care. I came to the South Austin Area Birthing Center as a transfer after we moved here from California. This was my third pregnancy and it was going smoothly but I was not an easy client. I was traumatized from my previous two hospital births and needed a lot of hand holding and specialized care. From my first visit with Sam I knew I had found the place I wanted to have my baby. She was so patient, listened in solidarity to my stories and immediately had great advice for me and a plan of action just in case my fears were realized. As fate would have if she was there for the birth as well. I came in basically ready to push and was so relieved to have her calm and experience there to help guide us. I finally was able to give birth just as I had always wanted, unmedicated, without pitocin, laboring mostly at home, free of monitors and miraculously without tearing even though he was sunny side up. This was my healing birth and I'm so glad Sam was there from start to finish! The rest of the staff and team were great too. Meg did many of my appointments and was another source of calm and wisdom throughout! I highly recommend AABC to all my mom friends. read more

Austin Area Birthing Center - Obstetricians & Gynecologists Near Me - Austin, Texas

It's been two years since my baby was born and now that I am expecting a second, it occurred to me I had not reviewed the AABC. The reviews helped me make a decision so I wanted to share my story in hopes it may help someone else making the huge decision that is deciding on whom to trust their body and baby to. So first of all, my husband and I were impressed with the facilities at AABC, it was close to the house, and we liked the philosophy of the place. One of my concerns at the time was that we would not know which midwife would deliver our baby, but I assure you all of the midwives were great. I would have been happy to have any one of them, and you will likely love them all too. All my appointments were smooth. I felt like their prenatal care was fantastic. Unfortunately, when the day finally came, after over 26 hours of labor (TWENTY. SIX.) I was not progressing and I was transferred to St. David's hospital. I ended up with an emergency c-section. Whomp whomp! But wait- I was not the only transfer from AABC that day! The lady next to me was transferred from there too! Maybe this happens more often than it seems? So here is something you really need to know: you are not guaranteed anything with birth. So just choosing AABC doesn't mean you're going to end up with one of those Pinterest-worthy black and white birth photos of you "giving birth in a bathtub surrounded by candles listening to Bon Iver" (as John Oliver once quipped). That being said, if I had know how horrible of an experience the transfer would be and the disappointment of not birthing at the birthing center, I would have attempted a natural birth in a hospital- which is what I have decided for baby #2. (The hospital has midwives and birthing tubs too, believe it or not!) Just know there is a lot of propaganda about natural births out there in the world and on the internet. I do not really fault anyone at AABC. I believe they are capable and have women's best interests in minds. And for all this I would give them 4 stars. But...I did have to remove one additional star from my rating because we were overcharged by AABC by almost $500 and the only reason we caught it was because my husband meticulously line-itemed every charge and checked it against our health care plan. Who has time for that? Especially with a new baby? No one. But I'm glad he did it! $500 is a lot of money to let slip through the cracks and babies are expensive. He said it took a few phone calls and follow-up, but AABC did eventually refund the money. So here's my other piece of advice: check you statements. Actually, do this with anywhere you give birth. I guess I would have expected it from a big hospital, but not from AABC, so that was a slight disappointment. Ok, hope some of this helps someone! Good luck, mama! read more

I wish I could give this place more stars! Overall an amazing experience. I am positive I would have never received this kind of care, attention, or control over my own birth with a hospital. My husband and I knew we wanted to have a natural birth (as long as baby and I were healthy & able). We had discussed a home birth but decided having a little more security if something went wrong was crucial. AABC fit the bill. We were impressed with the initial tour, signed the consents, & made our next appt. Be aware that AABC has to be cautious of who they take on as clients - if you have certain medical conditions or limitations (time, distance you live from the center) or your baby has certain problems, they will not accept you as a client. It's nothing personal! They are trying to keep you and your baby safe through this whole experience! And I thank them for being so particular. Over the next five months we met and had appointments with every midwife on staff. All were great! Each have their own unique personality but all share the common goal of making sure you have a safe birth and are educated in the process. The ultrasound tech was also wonderful! She was a hoot! We took the birthing classes and breast feeding classes (included in the cost!) to prepare us for the big day. So now it's time to have this kiddo. I called the midwife on call (which was Meg) when it was getting serious and we met her at the center. Meg and Michelle checked my vitals and the baby's heartbeat and left me and my husband to do our thing. They came to check on me every few minutes - but I barely noticed. They were so calm and efficient that I didn't even realize all they were doing. Four hours after arriving at AABC, our baby girl was born. My husband got to cut the cord! I could not have done it without Meg's calm motivation (that's probably not a thing, but it's the only way I can explain it). The midwife assistant Michelle was also so great. They really have a stellar team here. After the birth, it was like being at home. We were so comfortable and taken care of. Truly a one of a kind experience. Bonus - a nurse comes to you for your three day visit!! It is so great!! This place is far and above anything we expected for giving birth to our child. We would use them again in a heartbeat and would recommend them to everyone. If you are thinking about natural birth, go take the tour and just check the place out. Nothing can ever be perfect for everyone, but compared to the hospital option - they aren't even in the same league. AABC strives to be the best a what they do and it shows! Thank you all so much for helping me have the most wonderful birthing experience I could have asked for!!!!! Meg, you are the best! read more

I have never written a negative review for anything in my life, but I strongly feel that all moms thinking of using AABC need to know exactly what they are getting into. I would have highly recommended AABC to any expectant mom had it not been for my experience with them today. I am 24 weeks pregnant now, and today saw Vicki Meinhardt for a routine prenatal check-up. All was going well until she took my blood pressure. My diastolic reading was over 80. I asked her to take it again, and again, my diastolic reading was over 80. The nurse came in and my BP was 123/83. They were both convinced that I am hypertensive. I tried my best to explain that my BP is always slightly higher at any doctors office and that's why I am careful to monitor my BP at home. The whole situation got me so worked up that when they took my blood pressure again, it was even higher. Vicki convinced me that my blood pressure monitor that I use at home is not calibrated correctly, and she said that I am hypertensive and that there was no hope for my blood pressure. She said it's only going to go up as my pregnancy progresses. They dismissed me from their care and said that I would be better off finding an OB. I left feeling completely dismayed. Never before has a health care professional given up on me. After leaving AABC, I immediately went to Walgreens and bought a new expensive blood pressure monitor. I came home, sat down for 5 minutes and took my blood pressure 8 times. The highest reading I got was 128/76 and the lowest reading I got was 112/60, with the average reading being 119/68. I'm not at all hypertensive. Perhaps the midwife would argue that that monitor was broken, too. What I learned from this very heart-breaking experience is that AABC cannot assume any level of risk, even if that risk is perceived and not factual. They are super careful to take only the lowest risk patients. I do understand this to an extent, but I feel that their paranoia made me into an unnecessary casualty. I'm so incredibly disappointed. read more

I read some of the recent negative reviews on this place but wanted to give it a shot anyway. I am currently 7 months pregnant, moving from Seattle to Austin at about 33/34 weeks pregnant, and preferred to have a midwife deliver my baby. I'm sure this place does great with that for many people but their office/administrative problems were enough to warrant a negative review for me, which I hope will serve as a warning to others -- particularly those moving from out of town. At my initial call I explained about my move and that the midwives in their practice were the only ones listed with my insurance, so I was hoping to use them, but I needed to know if they were a preferred provider with my insurance. Our out of network costs are not affordable for us at this time, unfortunately. The person on the phone said they thought they were a provider but weren't sure. I was told to fill out two different extensive online forms (one with AABC, one with a billing service they contract with). I was told there would be a charge for the billing service to check on my insurance, but figured since their midwives are listed on my insurance's site, it was probably all going to work out and would be worth it. I spent a good chunk of time filling out the forms within a couple hours of my initial phone call and paid their fee to check my insurance. I was told my information would be reviewed and I would hear back "in a few days." I waited a week and called and was told I would definitely hear back "in a few days." No call. I waited a few more days and was told I would definitely hear by the next day. Finally, more than 3 weeks after my initial call, filling out forms, and paying for the service, I called again. The person on the phone said that they were having computer system issues that were not alerting the midwives to review potential patients (which didn't totally jive with my experience since I'd already made several follow-up calls, but OK). They said I would get a call back that day and I did! Hooray! I started to get hopeful that it would work out. I explained to the person who called about how I was moving soon and hoping to get everything all set so that I wouldn't have to scramble to find an alternate provider at 34 weeks pregnant (because otherwise they'd just have had me come in for the tour and figure out if they had spots/I was approved at that time). They said they just needed my records from my current midwife and sort of brushed over all my insurance questions. I had to send several more follow-up emails explaining how much I hoped to work with them and that I just needed to know if they were in-network for the labor and delivery through my insurance. Finally, after all that... the answer was no. Which is fine. It's just -- that wasn't even the detailed insurance analysis I paid for 3.5 weeks ago. It's just something that the office should be aware of -- and apparently someone did know, it just takes repeated questioning to get them to tell you. I've gone on way too long, I know, but wanted to give a heads up to anyone moving from out of town or concerned about insurance/cost issues. read more

I'm a first time mom now! I had a friend who delivered here in September 2013 and loved every bit of it...so when I unexpectedly got pregnant it crossed my mind to go here as well. BUT me being influenced by the "rest of the world" I decided to go to an OBGYN first instead...worst. experience. ever. !! After having a couple appointments at the OBGYN and feeling like I'm "just another patient" I switched from the OBGYN to the birthing center at 18 weeks pregnant and wished I'd started out at AABC. It being my first, it was important to me to feel like more than "just another patient," and at the birthing center, I wasn't just a number. They knew my name, always knew the latest about where I was and how my pregnancy was going (esp. after being diagnosed with gestational diabetes and finding out I was GBS positive) they never failed to calm my worries and such with all of my "what if" moments/questions. There's so much that I could brag on them for but I'll stop because this review would never end. Overall, if I could give this place more stars I would...the midwives at my appointments were awesome and I couldn't have asked for a better midwife and midwife assistant when delivering my little girl. Everything was perfect. :) read more

I am so grateful for the excellent care we received at Austin Area Birthing Center. I am one of the 10% that didn't get to deliver at the center. At 38 weeks I had a "mama instinct" that something was wrong. Upon initial investigation everything looked fine; baby's heartbeat was strong, fluid levels seemed fine and I was starting to soften and dilate. But I told her that I still felt something was wrong. She listened to my concerns and dug deeper. We found baby to be unmoving and his heart rate had no variability. I was transferred to Brackenridge for an induction but once I arrived there I was told my baby wouldn't live through a labor and delivery and a c-section was needed immediately. AABC had called ahead and notified the doctor we were coming so they were set up to treat us quickly and efficiently. There were quite a few mothers in labor that day and no midwives were available to accompany us to the hospital but the midwife assistant never left our side. My son was born via emergency c-section and was then transferred to Dell Children's where he spent 9 weeks fighting for his life and he won. We suffered a very rare condition called a fetal maternal hemorrhage that often goes unnoticed and is usually discovered after fetal demise. I truly believe the reason my son is alive is because our midwife, Leonora, listened to my concerns and looked deeper even though on the surface everything seemed fine. She saved my son's life. Our care at AABC, even after our son's birth, was stellar. I am so grateful we chose the birth center. read more

We just delivered our son here and had a great experience. I had originally been followed by a regular Ob/Gyn but was discouraged by her lack of experience with intervention free births. It became clear very quickly that she thought most women "think they want a natural birth" but really just have no idea what they are in for. At the birth center I received excellent obstetric care, great guidance on issues such as diet and healthy living during pregnancy, etc. I was incredibly impressed with the broad range of classes and extra services you have access to as a result of being a client, including free yoga classes (prenatal and postpartum), childbirth education, breast feeding classes, as well as breast feeding support through a lactation consultant on staff. The holistic care made my pregnancy a joy. And I found myself getting very comfortable and learning to relax in the birth center setting, which really helped during my delivery. It was a safe and comfortable place. I knew any risk factors would be taken very seriously and I ended up having an incredible birth. read more

YES to AABC. It's amazing. Case in point: I just got back from Baby Love class (a group that meets weekly for AABC moms to talk, play with baby, and check in with one another - it's incredible). While I was there I ran into Vicki, the wonderful (life-changing, rockstar, one-in-a-million) midwife who delivered our son 10 weeks ago. Our little boy has a big smile that so far only my husband and I have seen. The minute our son saw Vicki, his eyes lit up and he gave her a few of the biggest smiles we have seen yet. This means two things to me: 1. My kiddo recognizes our midwife as family and/or 2. The women who work at AABC are people who genuinely love to be involved with women's health, care deeply about families and - most importantly - are good people (babies can tell). I switched from OB-Gyn care to AABC at 28 weeks when I didn't feel like my doc "got" me or my desire to have a birth with as little medical intervention as possible. AABC welcomed me with open arms (I was low risk) and I delivered just before 42 weeks. Throughout my pregnancy I felt safe, listened-to, prepared, and excited to deliver. When the big day came I was prepared and I was able to have exactly the birth I had dreamed of. It was challenging to deliver without drugs, yes, but if you are reading this and are on the fence -you are strong, you can do it, you can have support to have the birth you want. I feel incredibly lucky to live in the same city as AABC. Instead of being yet another patient in a brightly lighted hospital with a changing staff of people you have not seen, AABC moms have a beautiful home-like space to labor and deliver babies. Being able to change positions, be in water, dim the lights (this was huge for me), and see familiar faces can make a lot of difference. My husband also raves about AABC. Our previous OB-Gyn didn't know his name and never even made eye contact during appointments whereas the ladies at AABC engaged him in conversation during appointments and encouraged him to participate in helping me labor. He says the difference between the two providers is the difference between Motel 6 and the Four Seasons :) The experience of delivering a baby is transformative and memorable regardless of who attends the birth or what happens. I truly believe that the choice to deliver at AABC was the first in a chain of parenting decisions that have shaped who I am now and the relationship I have with my son. I will recommend it to anyone who asks (or doesn't ask) and am confident that I will have baby #2 there as well, if we are so lucky. read more

This is the best choice we made as new parents. The staff is more like a group of friends that willingly offer honest, sincere advice about pregnancy and delivery. I rarely had questions to ask because they were so thorough. The facility is cozy and luxurious at the same time. My 25 hour labor was a dream of a wonderful experience-I don't know many moms that can say they enjoyed their 25 hour labor, but I did! We chose "Centering" vs the traditional one-on-one midwife visits and found them so helpful to hang out with other parents that were going through the same stage of pregnancy. I wish all my friends lived in Austin and could enjoy birthing at AABC. read more

If I could give more than 5 stars, I would. I loved this place from the moment I stepped foot in the door to tour it. I told my husband "we are gonna have our baby here." I loved all the free classes they offer, prenatal yoga (which helped ALOT), Bradley class and the centering group where you meet other moms that are due the same month as you. The midwives were so caring and loving. They made you feel like the strong woman we are. Now onto my birth experience. I had a very fast labor. My contractions started at 1am and they came fast! Every 2 minutes I was having one. I called the on call midwife and I went in because I felt the urge to push. I got there and she checked me and I was 8 cm dilated! Whoa! Well I tried birthing in the tub because I wanted a water birth but I wasn't comfortable. I moved to the bathroom and couldn't wait anymore, I HAD to push. I was only 9 cm so I was gonna have to push thru that last cm..well it hurt but he was coming and I finally moved to the bed and pushed for 30 minutes and he was born at 5:54 am. Just 5 hours total! The best part of this was that my husband was right there by my side and I felt so close to him. He and Scotty which was my birth assistant were AMAZING!! The midwife Michelle was amazing to. She let me be in my zone and just let me be in tune with my body. I've never felt so in tune with my body or baby. If you can have your baby at aabc..DO IT! It's the best place to have your baby. You won't regret it. read more

Austin Area Birthing Center - The room my son was born in! I loved everything about it. - Obstetricians & Gynecologists Near Me - Austin, Texas