Why Choose a Home Birth ?
The most important factor in considering a homebirth is that the mother has
a strong desire for a home birth. Even though a homebirth can save a significant
amount of money, cost should not be the primary motivation in choosing a homebirth.
Women who are successful in homebirth usually have a trust in their body’s
natural ability to give birth. Frequently they go to great lengths in taking
care of themselves and in finding the right practitioner.
The following are a few of the reasons women choose homebirth:
Safety: Homebirth is safe. Midwifery care preserves the normal physiological processes of pregnancy and labor without unnecessary intervention or technology. Research has never concluded that the hospital is safer then a birth at home when the woman is healthy and a trained birth attendant is present. Conversely research clearly shows that women who have hospital births are significantly more likely to have caesarean sections, forceps delivery, vacuum delivery, episiotomies and fourth degree lacerations and all the associated problems with those procedures. Perhaps most importantly, the dangerous bacteria and viruses that are commonly found in a hospital are less likely to be found in a home.
Support: Homebirth allows for the full participation of family and friends. There is no limitation on the number of persons or age of those present. Unlike many hospital births new mothers can breast feed immediately after delivery. Following delivery, the baby is usually placed on the mother’s stomach or breast to provide security and bonding.
Respect: As a guest in your home the midwife will give her professional opinion but will always respect your opinions and preferences. Throughout labor the midwife will ask permission to do any procedures and will explain to the mother and family what she is doing and why.
Relaxed Environment: When a woman feels relaxed and safe in her own home, labor progresses more smoothly. Women who give birth at home do not worry about making arrangements to go to the hospital. The midwife will come to you.
Individualized Care: Home BirthWorks is a one midwife practice with an assistant who attends the birth. Women and their families clearly know who will be at their birth. This one factor greatly decreases the stress on the birthing mother and her family. In addition, because your midwife knows you well, your care will be individualized to meet your needs. A well established relationship is a priceless asset for both you and your midwife. In the very rare event that your midwife cannot be present at your birth another provider will be available.