Home birth

Can I have a home birth?

You can 'book' a home birth with your GP, or direct with a community midwife. You can also do this through an independent midwife, although you will have to pay.

There are some health and pregnancy issues that make a home birth less suitable for some women, but it’s still your choice. Things you need to think about before reaching a decision are:

Advantages

• You'll be in a familiar, relaxing and private environment
• There should be no quick dash to hospital once you go into labour – you can stay put
• You can choose who you want there during labour, so if you want your other children around that's fine
• You may feel more in control at home
• After your baby's born, you can get into your own bath and your own bed

Disadvantages

• There may be fewer options for pain relief at home
• You may have to transfer to hospital if there are complications and this may be an issue if you live some distance away
• There is no emergency paediatric care on hand if your baby needs it

How do I arrange a home birth?

Once you've had your pregnancy confirmed, talk to your GP or midwife about a home birth. They'll discuss your choice and make the necessary arrangements.

If your GP's concerned about your choice, contact the manager of your local community midwifery services.

The earlier in your pregnancy you decide on a home birth, the easier it is to arrange one, and you can change your mind and opt for a hospital birth at any point.

Once labour begins, your community midwife may visit you once, twice, or more. When your baby's birth is imminent she'll stay with you.

Alternatively, you can hire an independent midwife to handle your antenatal care and your home birth. This costs between £1,500 and £4,000. To find out more, contact Independent Midwives UK.

Will I need any special equipment?

Your midwife will bring all the equipment she needs. You don't need to provide very much, but you should ensure your home is warm.

You'll need:

• Plastic sheets to protect your bed and carpet
• Warm towels and warm clothes for your baby
• A bright lamp so the midwife can see what she's doing
• A packed overnight bag, including baby clothes, in case you need to be transferred to hospital

If you'd like to use a birthing pool at home, these are available for hire.

What if I need to go to hospital?

If there are complications during your labour, the midwife may decide you or your baby would be safer in hospital.

She'll discuss this with you and your partner, and will call an ambulance. She'll go with you and may continue with your care depending on how many hours she's already worked.

If you use an independent midwife she may not be able to assist you at the hospital, although she can remain with you as a supporter.

After a home birth

Your midwife will stay for some time after the placenta has been delivered, and will check your baby and help you to breastfeed.

Your midwife, or one of her colleagues, will visit you every day for a few days and your GP will carry out a complete check on your baby.