Home birth

Home birth- advantages

Women who choose to give birth at home most often cite a sense of security and comfort that they are unable to obtain in a hospital setting as the reason. They pay attention to the intimacy of the moment and the closeness they can get with their partner. In a home birth, the medicalization of labor is also minimized. There are no pharmacological methods available to relieve pain. On the other hand, non-pharmacological modalities such as aromatherapy, opportunities for movement and water immersion are available. The light, music and the whole mood is tailored to the needs of the woman in labor. Home, if properly prepared, is a much lower risk of possible  infections and infections that can happen in the hospital.

Home birth- disadvantages

From the doctors’ point of view, home birth has many disadvantages. The main one is the distance from the hospital, and thus the specialized assistance that may be necessary for both the woman and the newborn child during the delivery operation. During home births, the family is usually accompanied by an experienced midwife, but sometimes it may be necessary to use equipment available only in a hospital setting. In such cases, the ambulance service called in takes the mother and the baby to the hospital. What is lost, however, is time, which is so valuable in many situations. Another disadvantage of home birth is that it is not reimbursed by the National Health Service, and the cost of the midwife must be paid by the Parents.

Who can give birth at home?

In an out-of-hospital setting, only those women whose pregnancy has progressed physiologically and whose previous obstetric history is unremarkable can give birth. Consent for such a birth should be given by a doctor, among other things. After estimating the baby’s weight, as well as evaluating the fetal position on ultrasound. This is because home delivery is possible in the case of a head position and at a baby weight that is not an indication for a C-section. The pregnancy must also be carried to term. A very important aspect, determining who can give birth at home, is the woman’s willingness and determination. She must feel confident and safe in these conditions and be aware of her decision. In order for this to be possible, it is often necessary to build a relationship with the midwife and to be thoroughly familiar with the course of labor and the possible emotions surrounding it.

Home birth-what to keep in mind?

It is important to prepare properly for a home birth. The first action should be to find and choose a midwife who inspires confidence and has experience in home births. Most often, she will provide Parents with a list of items, necessary for home birth. These include. Primers, towels, gauze pads or diapers. It is also important to remember the mandatory screening tests that are performed after birth. They can be carried out by a community midwife. The same is true for mandatory vaccinations after birth – against tuberculosis and hepatitis B. After the birth, the midwife should also issue documents such as a birth certificate, fill out a health booklet and prepare an immunization card.

Read also:
Types of births – their advantages and disadvantages