What is Home birth?
Women and parents who plan a home birth have a strong belief in the normality of childbirth, in women's ability to give birth, and in birth being a special part of family life. It is important that the woman makes informed choices and looks after her health to ensure the best possible birth outcomes.
A home birth is a birth that occurs at home, as planned by the parent(s) of the baby with the support of a chosen midwife. At present, approximately 7% of births in New Zealand happen at home. Homebirth requires professionally qualified support people to be present otherwise the birth is called an unassisted home birth. A percentage of women who plan to birth at home may transfer to hospital to deliver, and these births are then classified as home birth with hospital transfer. All women who plan to birth at home can call themselves hombirthers. A birth that occurs at home when a hospital birth was planned is called an unplanned home birth and is associated with a different safety profile than a home birth.
A home birth does not always take place in the woman's home. For her own reasons, eg lack of privacy or space where she lives, she may choose to birth at a friend's house, her parent's house or even a motel.
There are some reasons why birthing at a home is not advised, for example twins and breech presentation. If you have a complication in pregnancy or during your previous labour then discuss with your midwife to see if birthing at home is an option.
Benefits of home birth
It is safe - Many studies have repeatedly shown that planned home birth is as safe, and in many cases safer, than hospital birth.
Less intervention - The labouring woman is encouraged to believe in the natural birthing process, to listen to and work with her body and natural instincts, thus avoiding unnecessary intervention. Studies have shown that women giving birth at home rated labour as significantly less painful than did women giving birth in hospital. Additionally, the potential of having a caesarean delivery is lowered.
No medication - Drugs commonly used in labour and birth at hospital have risks for the mother and baby and can lead to further interventions. Alternative methods of pain relief that can be used at home include water, massage, counter-pressure, heat, cold, aromatherapy, acupressure, breathing, movement, different positions, and emotional support.
Less infection - Studies have shown newborn infection rates are up to four times higher for hospital-birthed babies (including organisms such as MRSA - Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus).
Familiar environment - A woman usually feels more comfortable, relaxed and in control in her own home, surrounded by familiar people whom she trusts. Studies have shown that labour can be compromised by an unfamiliar environment. Discomfort and fear can increase the pain experienced in childbirth, while relaxation can diminish maternal stress, improve oxygen flow to the baby, and facilitate labour.
No Travel - Travel during labour is painful and stressful and has been shown to inhibit labour.
Breastfeeding - Studies indicate that breastfeeding is more easily established by home birth mothers.
Midwifery care - Homebirth midwives believe birth is a normal life event and provide continuity of care throughout pregnancy, labour and after the birth.
Privacy - A woman at home can move about, change positions and vocalise as she feels free to; there are no protocols, routines or strangers to inhibit her.
Emotional bonding - After a homebirth the baby is not removed from its mother's side. The emotional bonding that takes place in the moments after birthing between mother, baby and the entire family promotes well being, encourages breastfeeding, and speeds recovery of the mother.
Emotional well-being - A homebirther who has given birth naturally without drugs or intervention is more likely to feel positive about herself and her birthing experience. This, along with support from midwife, friends and family, has been shown to decrease the likelihood of postnatal depression.
Power to choose who is present at your birth and afterwards - In your own home you have greater control over your birth process. Ability to have partner/whanau support you continually and not just during hospital visiting hours.
Religious and spiritual beliefs
Because your friends have birthed at home and rave about it!
This article was first published in Birthplace Yourplace. A booklet put together by the Canterbury Homebirth Association.
Last updated 21 January 2010.