Homebirths are the way forward.
Pregnant Sarah is considering a homebirth. Her first labour, (although quite long) was relatively problem free, and with that in mind I have to say I think a homebirth is a great idea.
Many women cringe at the thought of not having every type of medical intervention known to man in the next room while they go through what should be a natural process.
Sarah had her first baby in hospital and has negative feelings about the experience. If planning her second labour in a more familiar environment helps alleviate some anxiety, then, why not?
The Kid's birth was a marvellous experience (although the other half would probably tell you otherwise!) But had I been at home and not in hospital I really believe the whole affair would have been over hours earlier.
I also wouldn't have had to wait around for someone to discharge me. I could have just got on with nursing my tiny new arrival in my own home.
I've been on some forums talking to women about this, and the general feeling is that homebirths are the way forward. It can be a very powerful and liberating experience. Women were keen to point out that we need to step away from a midwife 'managing' the labour, and let mothers be in control.
I know you can never be too careful, but I think that with under-staffed labour wards and issues with cleanliness, it's a case of switching one set of possible complications for another, and the benefits far outweigh the risks.
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Emma Deadman - is a first-time mum-to-be. She gives her take on life... from bump to beyond.
It's a very personal decision that no one can TELL any pregnant woman what they should do. I understand the issues of cleanliness, staffing etc, however, i have actually been involved in MANY difficult labours and assisted in delivering many babies into the world that, without medical intervention, i'm sorry to say would more than likely have not survived. For this reason, for me, knowing that i have professionals present who can revive my child or help prevent any extra compications is crucial. Imagine if something were to happen and, if you had been in a hospital it could be dealt with immediately, but because you were at home it couldn't be....how would you feel???
I appreciate what you're saying. Perhaps because you see worst case scenarios time and time again you are more cautious.
Most midwives fully advocate homebirths because they have attended hundreds and hundreds of labours where nothing goes wrong, and they are very aware of the benefits being at home can bring to a woman in labour and her baby.
You're right to raise the point about how a woman would feel if things didn't go according to plan. The 'How Would I Feel if Something Went Wrong' factor is one thought that does put many women off the idea of homebirth. Whenever something bad happens to ANYONE, they always wonder 'what if I'd have done it differently', 'if only I hadn't done that.'We just can't see into the future, and have no need to feel guilty if our initial decisions are carefully thought out.
I, like you, feel that as long as every woman has control over their labour, where ever it happens, is the important thing.
Thank you for sharing your opinion.
I must say I feel the same as Lucy H. I experienced the need for emergency care when having Girly, and would have been scared to death at home. I was bad enough in hospital. Mums I know have opted for a HB only to have to go into hospital in the end. Maybe a birthing centre is a happy medium...
That sounds like an idea.
AfternI'd had The Kid I was lucky enough to go to the hospital's family room, until I went home later that afternoon. If a birthing centre is similar to that, then yes, it would be a much better option to the clinical hospital labour ward. Moms would still have to travel home though. Hmm, lots to think about.