Bringing new life into the world is one of the most powerful, emotional experiences a family can share. As a Columbus, Ohio maternity and newborn photographer, I’ve had the honor of hearing countless birth stories from mothers who chose a birthing center instead of a traditional hospital. Many of them wanted a more natural, hands-off approach that still offered safety and comfort.
If you are considering this path, you’re not alone — birthing centers are growing in popularity for families who want a balance between home birth and hospital birth. Below, I’ll share six highly regarded birthing centers in and around Columbus, Ohio. Each one offers unique philosophies, experienced midwives, and supportive spaces designed to empower mothers.
Photographed by Whispy Shades Photography
Mount Carmel St. Ann’s is home to the only hospital-based natural birth center in central Ohio. Families love the cozy, home-like environment paired with the reassurance of immediate hospital access if needed. Each suite includes queen-sized beds, hydrotherapy tubs, and supportive midwives who believe in letting mothers lead the process.
Reason why families love Mount Carmel St. Ann’s: Beautiful birthing suites, water therapy options, and the perfect balance between natural freedom and hospital safety. Check out St. Ann’s.
The Central Ohio Birth Center is a free-standing center designed for families who want a calm, natural birth experience outside of the hospital. Their certified nurse midwives encourage mothers to move freely during labor, utilize birthing tubs, and create personalized birth plans.
Why you might want to choose Central Ohio Birth Center: Peaceful setting, water birth availability, and an experienced midwife team focused on low-intervention care. Check out Central Ohio Birth Center.
Bloom Women’s Center blends modern midwifery with individualized attention. Many mothers describe their care as empowering, with a strong emphasis on education, informed consent, and postpartum support. Their team is known for walking alongside families well beyond delivery day.
Why families choose it: A family-like atmosphere, continuity of care, and excellent postpartum support. Check out Bloom Women’s Center.
Photographed by Whispy Shades Photography
For more than 40 years, Choices has been serving Columbus families with compassionate midwifery care. They provide both center-based births and home birth options, tailoring care to meet families where they feel safest.
Why families choose it: Long-standing reputation, flexible care options, and a deep trust in women’s ability to birth naturally. Check out Choices for Midwifery Care.
Columbus Regional Birth Center is celebrated for its holistic approach and calm environment. Families can choose water birth, natural labor positions, and personalized care that honors their wishes. Midwives are available throughout pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum recovery.
Why families choose it: Holistic philosophy, water birth options, and a highly supportive team. Check out Columbus Regional Birth Center.
This is Columbus, Ohio’s first free standing birthing center. Ohio Birth Center offers a warm, intimate environment designed to feel like home. Midwives encourage freedom of movement, personalized birth plans, and a hands-off approach whenever possible. If midwifery is important to you than, this place my be what you are looking for. I know I wanted hands off and to be heard as a person, so if this is you, this location would be perfect for you.
Why families choose it: Comfortable, home-like setting, natural birth philosophy, and compassionate staff. Check out Ohio Birth Center.
Photographed by Whispy Shades Photography
Birthing centers offer something unique: a supportive, calm atmosphere where mothers feel respected and empowered to follow their body’s natural rhythm. They bridge the gap between home birth and hospital birth, giving families more choices in how to welcome their baby.
For mothers who want an intimate birth experience surrounded by loved ones — without unnecessary interventions — birthing centers in Columbus, Ohio provide the perfect balance of comfort and safety.
Your birth story is one you’ll carry with you forever. Being a Columbus maternity and newborn photographer, I have heard the good, the bad, and the ugly. I can not stress enough about how important your birth story is. You will replay this moment for the rest of your life. Never give up on what you believe in. Whether you choose a hospital or a birthing center, what matters most is feeling empowered, safe, and supported. Being a Columbus maternity and newborn photographer, I have heard the good, the bad, and the ugly. I can not stress enough about how important your birth story is. You will replay this moment for the rest of your life. I’ve seen how much these moments shape a family’s journey. Whichever path you take, know that your strength and love will shine through every step.