If you have a straightforward pregnancy, you might want to consider the option to give birth at home.
Being in familiar surroundings, where you may feel more relaxed, can help some women to cope better with labour and birth. You would be supported through labour and birth by a midwife. Midwives can provide ‘low risk’ care in your home. If the midwife is concerned for the health of you or your baby then the midwife will make arrangements to transfer you into hospital.
When planning where to give birth we suggest you discuss your personal circumstances with your midwife to help decide what would be right for you.
If you’re at increased risk of complications you may be advised to give birth on the labour ward but it’s still worth discussing your options with your midwife. Wherever you choose, the place should feel right for you. You can change your mind at any point in your pregnancy.
Homebirth requires a bit of extra preparation as you need to create the birth environment you wish for.
Birth pools can be rented or bought. Think about the weight of them on your flooring. Also consider protecting your flooring and furnishings. Think about the responsibility of filling the pool and maintaining the temperature. How will you organise child care and pet care during the labour and birth? Epidurals are not available at home but you can use gas and air, TENS, relaxation techniques. Have plenty of sheets and towels available for you and baby. Stock up well on refreshments for you and your birth supporters.
Your midwife would like to start to help you plan for home birth as early as possible in your pregnancy. Please feel free to explore this option with your midwife.
