Preferred Providers

When it comes to who to choose to work with, it can sometimes be a tough and overwhelming decision! Having the birth that you want (and deserve) starts with building a solid team. Below are some commonly asked questions about providers as well as who I often recommend.

What makes a good provider?

  • A good provider is someone that you trust. Do they take time to answers your questions? Do they validate your feelings? Do they treat you with respect? These are all things that you deserve. A good provider doesn’t dismiss your concerns, is upfront about how they work, and is someone that you connect with in your gut.

Why are these providers on your list?

  • The below providers have shown care, respect, and a true love of helping people bring their babies into this world. They go the extra mile to provide individualized care. They are also cool with doulas and understand that we are a valuable team member! These providers check in emotionally, listen to client requests, and are open to trying new things.

My provider isn’t on your list! What does that mean?

  • While I’ve have had the pleasure to work with and hear about many providers in Los Angeles, I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t know everyone! If your provider isn’t on the list that doesn’t mean they aren’t good, it just means we might have a deeper conversation about why you chose them, how you’ve been treated thus far, and do some digging on our end to connect with other birthworkers that have worked with them. If it’s not a good fit or you find one that you like better, I can assist in switching providers for a smooth transition.

What are some questions I should ask a potential care provider?

  • The following questions can be helpful guides in figuring out if your care provider is a good fit for you:

  • FOR OBS:

    • What is your induction rate?

    • What is your cesarean rate?

    • What is your episiotomy rate?

    • What hospitals do you have privileges in?

  • FOR MIDWIVES:

    • What is your transfer rates and why do clients typically transfer?

    • Do you have clients who do waterbirths?

    • Do you have an office or will prenatals be in my home?

    • What pain management do you offer?

    • When do you normally come to the birth?

  • FOR BOTH:

    • How long are prenatals?

    • How hands on are you?

    • Do you have any additional skills ie lactation? belli binding? bodywork?

    • Do you have additional resources ie chiropractic care? nutrition? mental health?

    • How would you feel about me having a doula present?

    • Do you require all recommended tests or can I decline any I do not want?

    • What brought you to birthwork and why do you like being a birthworker?

    • What does postpartum care look like?

Preferred Providers (in alphabetical order):

  • Phabillia Afflack, MD - (323) 760-7277

  • Laura Burnett, LM - https://www.southbaybirth.com/contact

  • Beth Cannon CPM, LM - (323) 333-6904

  • Paul H. Crane, MD - (310) 659-5810

  • Dos Midwifery - https://www.dosmidwifery.com/connect

  • Kimberly Durdin CPM, LM - (310) 986-4996

  • Allegra Hill CPM, LM - (323) 313-2388

  • David Finke MD - (310) 657-1600

  • Faith Freeman CPM, LM - https://www.borntobelovedbirth.com/ (323) 536-2998

  • Sara Howard CPM, LM - (818) 625-1574

  • Bente Kaiser, MD - (213) 413-3000

    • For a midwife and OB care team, Bente Kaiser and Sara Howard work together. To reach them as a team, please call (323) 913-4560