Home Birth

Home births grow in number every year. As more mothers decide to go back to the more natural way of birthing babies, they are increasingly choosing home births. If you and your spouse have chosen this route or are considering it there are things you can do to prepare ahead of time.

Doctors and Midwives

Midwives deliver in both hospitals and at home. If you are going to have a home delivery chances are you will have a midwife. Not many doctors will deliver at home any more, but there are a few. These are mostly small town MDs as opposed to obstetricians. But if having qualified medical personnel in attendance is a worry do not let it be. Midwives specialize in home births and have to have a doctor for backup in case of a medical emergency.

Discuss your goals and desires for a home birth months in advance with whoever is going to be in attendance. Have a contingency plan if problems arise. Decide when you would go to the hospital if things are not moving along correctly.

Plan Ahead

Plan ahead for your home birth. Mom will want to make sure she as everything she needs for the birth. Personal supplies, comfortable night gowns that will work for nursing and whatever support people you might want to include. If you have other children at home arrange for someone to be there besides you or your spouse to tend to their needs.

Preparations for the Birth

Most of the time the midwife or doctor who you are working with will supply what is needed for the actual birth. Often you will be given a package of supplies around 36 weeks to take home.

If your midwife does not supply these things she can probably direct you to where you can purchase what you need. A quick search on the internet should also lead you in the right direction. You will want to have diapers, t-shirts and a cap on hand for the birth. Receiving blankets are a must for keeping baby warm right after the birth.

Rest and Recovery

It can be easier to rest at home instead of in a hospital simply because you are in your own bed with no nurse bothering you every few hours. But be careful that you do not let family and friends ruin your rest. Set hours for visitors just like you would if you were at the hospital. Have your spouse or mother run interference and head people off at the door who just drop in at the last minute.

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