Only 7% of women choose to birth at home, yet studies show that in most cases, it’s safer and comes with fewer interventions and lower risks of cross-infection compared to hospital births. Could a home birth be the right option for you?
Why Consider a Home Birth?
A home birth might appeal to you if:
- You view birthing as a natural process rather than a medical procedure.
- The comforts of home are important to you.
- You’re aiming for a drug-free birth experience.
- You want minimal disruption to family life before, during, and after the birth.
- Labouring in familiar surroundings makes you feel calmer and more in control.
- You’re concerned about the discomfort or risks of travelling to the hospital during labour.
Real Stories from Home Birth Mums
Here’s what women who’ve given birth at home have to say:
- “I loved being able to shower in my own bathroom and snuggle up in my own bed after the birth.”
- “It was so much more relaxing being able to labour in my own house, without any strangers watching me.”
- “It was great having everything I needed at home, without worrying about forgetting to take something to the hospital.”
- “I was determined to have a drug-free birth and didn’t want the temptation of pain relief in a moment of weakness.”
- “After a traumatic car ride during labour with my first baby, I didn’t want to risk a repeat experience.”
- “The kids came in straight away to meet their new baby sister—we were together as a family from the very beginning.”
Practical Considerations for Home Birth
Finding a Home Birth Midwife
The first step is to connect with a midwife experienced in home births. They can assess your suitability and provide the necessary support and guidance.
Preparing Your Home
Ensure you have:
- A designated birthing area with clean sheets and towels.
- A birthing pool if desired (and enough space to set it up).
- Easy access to a bathroom and warm water.
- Emergency contact numbers for backup care.
Creating Your Birth Kit
Include items such as:
- Absorbent pads or plastic sheets.
- A thermometer to monitor room temperature.
- Comfort items like cushions, candles, or music.
Is Home Birth Safe?
Research shows that for low-risk pregnancies, home births with a qualified midwife can be as safe as hospital births. The key is having a well-prepared plan and access to medical care if needed.
If you’d like more information on home births, including FAQs, statistics, and midwife resources, visit: Homebirth NZ
Fascinating Baby Facts
Did you know?
- Brown Fat for Warmth: Human babies are born with pads of brown fat between their shoulder blades to keep them warm until feeding and metabolism are established.
- The Comfort of Amniotic Fluid: Babies quieten when they smell their amniotic fluid in the first few days, finding it comforting.
- Sound Discrimination: Babies can hear and organise all the sounds around them until about 10 months old, when they start focusing on the language spoken in their environment.
Choosing where to give birth is a deeply personal decision. If a home birth aligns with your values and circumstances, it could be a rewarding experience that allows for comfort, control, and a natural transition into parenthood.
