For centuries woman gave birth in the comfort of their own homes with midwives at their sides. But a change started in the beginning of the 20th century. Women started giving birth in hospitals with the aid of obstetricians. Today about 2% of women have home births. However studies show that a carefully planned homebirth with a competent practitioner can be safer than a hospital birth.
Home birth might be an option for you if:
- You are having a healthy, low-risk pregnancy
- You want to avoid episiotomy, cesarean section, epidural and other interventions
- You want to be surrounded by family and friends
- You want to be free to move around, change positions, take a shower, and eat or drink freely during labor
- You want to enjoy the comforts of home and familiar surroundings
Home birth is not for you if:
- You are diabetic
- You have chronic high blood pressure, or toxemia (also known as pre-eclampsia)
- You have experienced preterm labor in the past, or may be at risk for preterm labor now
- You have other medical issues that may complicate your labor
- Your partner does not fully support your decision to give birth at home
To find a home birth midwife in your area CLICK HERE.