The first birth I ever saw was at home. It was several years into attending births that I actually attended a birth in the hospital. For me the question is why wouldn’t you give birth at home? While the goal of birth at home or in the hospital is the same – healthy moms and babies – it is not the only goal. The birth process itself is intrinsically valuable and important.

Home birth has many benefits:

• The midwife comes to you: There is no need to go anywhere once labor begins. No timing of contractions or worry about arriving too early or late at the hospital or birth center. This means no disruption in the progress of labor or uncomfortable car rides while trying to relax with contractions. Additionally, after giving birth you can settle into your own bed to rest and recover.
• Freedom: You are free to eat, drink, move, labor and birth how and where you instinctively desire and feel “in charge” of the situation. You and your baby are monitored in a gentle and unobtrusive way.
• Family Participation: Birth is a transformational experience for everyone involved. Anyone you choose may be present including other children or pets. You or your partner may choose to catch the baby. This also means you choose who does not attend your birth – no strangers, no shift changes.
• Comfort: Most women are better able to manage pain in familiar surroundings and have less stress in the privacy of their homes.
• Continuity of Care: Your caregiver will be the same person you know and trust who has supported and cared for you throughout your pregnancy. This also means your caregiver knows you, your family and understands your goals and desires for your birth.