Immanuel Birth Co. out of Topeka announced they received a letter from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment with the intent to close the location. Allegedly, the decision comes after the report of a 2021 stillbirth, which Immanuel said is the second stillbirth in the company’s 45 years of operation.

Birthing centers offer a physiological and low-intervention birthing option for those who want a natural experience, but don’t want to deliver at home. In most cases, women cite family factors or expense in not wanting to birth at home.

Immanuel and other birthing centers are staffed by doulas and midwives, rather than nurses or doctors. In order to become a midwife, one must become a registered RN, complete an accredited graduate-level nursing degree, pass exams, and log hands-on experience.

The location is the only birth center in Topeka. Last month, a similar birthing location closed in Overland Park of their own accord, citing underpayment by insurance companies which left them financially unstable.  

Immanuel stated they will appeal the decision.