Deciding where you want to give birth to your baby is an important decision. Clinical safety is a significant factor when choosing where to give birth but we know you also value feeling comfortable, safe and in control. All of these factors can have a beneficial impact on your labour. Learn more about your options and talk to your care providers about what the right choice is for you.
NHS Lothian provides services for labour and delivery through the Lothian Birth Centre, Homebirth, Royal Edinburgh Infirmary Labour Ward or St. John’s Labour Ward. Learn more about each location below.
How do I decide where to give birth?
Deciding where you want to give birth to your baby is your decision. Your midwife and doctor (if you have one) will help you with this, and ensure you have all the information you need to make the right decisions for you and your family. They will make a recommendation based on your pregnancy and individual circumstances, as well as on local and national guidelines. They will discuss this with you so you understand the reasons (risks and benefits) for the recommendation. You can choose to accept the recommendation or explore alternative options with your care provider.
Your personal preferences are central to this decision. NHS Lothian is here to support you through your pregnancy, birth and postpartum periods. We believe you have the right to give birth in an environment where you feel safe, comfortable and relaxed. You will be able discuss your preferences with your midwife throughout your pregnancy.
We have pulled together information based on research about the various options of where to give birth and their associated outcomes. If you have any other questions, reach out to your midwife or doctor or call 0131 536 2009.
Quick Look
Compare Your Options
At the start of your pregnancy, you’ll be asked to think about where you want to give birth.
Don’t worry if you’re not sure. You can choose where to give birth when you feel ready and change your choice at any time.
Your midwife can help you with any questions you and your partner have and help you find more information.
Click on any of the options to learn more about details, benefits, risks and additional considerations.
Birth Centre
Recommended for: Uncomplicated, low-risk pregnancies.
Pain relief: Various options available (Epidural analgesia is not.)
Features: Located at RIE, this unit is a ‘home‑like’ setting with birthing pools, spacious mats, bean bags, areas for movement, ballet bars, and birthing balls with ability to transfer to RIE Labour Ward if required.
Labour Ward – RIE
Recommended for: Any pregnancy, especially those with factors that make labour and birth more complex for you and your baby.
Pain relief: Full range of options available.
Features: A range of medical facilities made to feel as comfortable as possible. While in labour you will be cared for one-to-one by a midwife with obstetric doctors and anaesthetists on hand if assistance if required. RIE features a Neonatal Unit is an intensive care nursery for newborn babies who are sick or premature, especially those who are very small or seriously ill, while also caring for babies with general conditions.
Homebirth
Recommended for: Uncomplicated, low-risk pregnancies.
Pain relief: Various options available (Epidural analgesia is not.)
Features: Familiar surroundings, where you may feel more relaxed. This option might require additional preparation to to create an optimal environment with the help of your midwife.
Labour Ward – St. John’s
Recommended for: Any pregnancy, especially those with factors that make labour and birth more complex for you and your baby.
Pain relief: Full range of options available.
Features: A range of medical facilities made to feel as comfortable as possible. While in labour you will be cared for one-to-one by a midwife with obstetric doctors and anaesthetists on hand if assistance if required. St. John’s features a Special Care Baby Unit for babies born after 32 weeks who have general conditions such as low birth weight, preterm birth, infection, or jaundice.
“Childbirth is a transformative experience both physically and emotionally and midwives are at the centre of it. We support families to have the best start, preparing them not only for the process of childbearing and birth but also to become the best possible parents and we support them to develop environments where their babies can thrive into healthy adults”.
Mercedes Perez-Botella, Director of Midwifery, NHS Lothian
