| Homebirth pros and cons |
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| Labor and Birth |
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Many people who are against homebirths have never been to one! Statistically, home births are safe and make good sense. Women with low-risk pregnancies who plan to have their baby at home are more likely to have a normal birth with little or no medical intervention, a goal the vast majority of women say they would like to achieve. There are pros and cons to having a planned homebirth. Each must be considered before choosing a homebirth. Homebirth Pros The family remains together and provides support for the mother. Children may be present to the extent they are comfortable. The father, siblings, and other members of the family have lots of opportunities to become involved. The parents choose who they are comfortable with at their birth. They know and are familiar with those who are present. People build up immunities to germs in their own home so the risk of any infection is reduced. Also reducing the chance of infection is the number of people using the bed, facilities, etc is limited to family and friends. Most unplanned complications of labor can be managed at home or stabilized in the home and then transportation to a medical facility can be arranged. Since mothers are so comfortable and relaxed in their own homes their labor goes more smoothly. Many women are uncomfortable in hospital settings among strangers. Parents have control over their labor and delivery plan. There is little chance of it not being followed at a homebirth. The care they receive is very personalized, respectful, and supportive from the midwife. Mother and child are not separated after the birth. The entire family is allowed to bond immediately and stay together. It is an intimate experience for everyone without the intrusion of strangers. Homebirth Cons Insurance won’t cover a homebirth. Many midwives will accept a “down payment” with monthly payments during the pregnancy. The family pays for many supplies, as well. The helpers you invite to your birth will need to agree to help clean up afterwards. Families that are dependent on the mom may have trouble allowing her proper rest after the birth. In the event there is a complication and transportation to a hospital for the birth occurs, the family is usually unprepared. The sense of failure may trigger postpartum depression. Babies die at homebirths far less often than at hospital births, but if it happens, the decision to homebirth will be questioned. Opposition from the community, the medical field, family, and friends often must be dealt with. It is important to make an informed decision when it comes to homebirths. Once the decision has been made, there should appropriate preparation and planning. Women should give birth where they are most comfortable to achieve the best birth experience and safest birth experience. 
 
 
 
 
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