Having had two babies in a hospital setting, I’ve always been curious about home births. The idea of being able to skip the discharge process alone makes it sound pretty appealing to me. We’ve all seen the beautiful home birth photos and read the near idyllic birth stories, but I had a chance to chat with three diverse home birth mamas and get the real scoop.
Home birth isn’t necessarily peaceful
Don’t expect around-the-clock nursing post-delivery
This means more rest, but less trained care.
“My son was born at 7 a.m., so my midwife stayed and had breakfast with us. Then she left the house maybe two hours after the birth and cleaning up was done. She called to check on us during the day, and then stopped by later that day to check in.” – Sara G.
“My son was born in a hospital and we would be woken up at all hours by nurses checking on us. Plus I also had an IV stuck in my arm which was very uncomfortable. At home, I could rest with my baby and have my husband and other family members care for us. Again, it was special to share that time together away from strangers and beeping machines.” – Kristel A.
Your postnatal care is more frequent and more nurturing, and you don't have to leave your home
“100% of my postpartum care took place at home. Weekly visits for 6-8 weeks.Those were blissful visits, and I looked forward to them.” – Sara G.
“My midwife would come to visit me every couple days to make sure I was adjusting well and recovering from the birth. It was like having a friend coming to visit because she was always so warm and kind.” – Kristel A.
“I wanted the comforts of home at home. I wanted to labor, deliver and have postpartum care in one places. Having a baby at home just felt better.” – Brittany M.
Home birth isn’t for everyone, but for those who choose it, it can be an extremely rewarding experience.
“My home birth was completely healing and empowering and wonderful—it was everything I wanted it to be!” – Sara G.
“Honestly, my home birth was the best. It was a powerful experience that resulted in a great postpartum experience.” – Kristel A.
“I was so proud of myself. I did it. Again. At home and un-coached. I gave birth my way with no timeline. I think women across the globe should get the love, respect and tools to birth the way they want. Baby’s health and mom’s health are so important and if a mama feels more comfortable birthing in a hospital (or needs to medically), to the hospital she should go.” – Brittany M.
