Pregnancy & Baby 

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Home or hospital?

An iVillage member posted saying that she wanted a home birth for her second baby, but her GP wasn’t keen on the idea. This is what you advised her to do

Stick up for your rights

‘You’re entitled by law to the kind of birth you want to have. If necessary, go to the midwives; if they’re not supportive, go to the director of midwifery at the hospital and explain what you want. Ask to be given good reasons why they won’t support you. If the worst comes to the worst, consider an independent midwife. I faced opposition and stood my ground. I had my first baby at home with a very supportive midwife, and my second is due in eight weeks. I’m doing the same again.’

Note: If you want a home birth and your GP isn’t willing to support you, or you can’t find a midwife who will deliver your baby at home, you can contact AIMS – The Association for Improvement in Maternity Services or The Independent Midwives Association

‘Current policy on the place of birth is based on two assumptions. Firstly, that hospital is the safest place to give birth and secondly, that the decline in perinatal mortality is due to an increase in the number of births taking place in hospitals. Research does not support either of these assumptions.
A home birth should be a realistic choice for women. Throughout the country there are midwives who have joined forces with women to develop innovative and flexible ways of providing safe and effective care. All women should have access to a community midwife. If anyone is having problems then contact your maternity unit and ask for the supervisor of midwives.
The home birth rate in the UK is rising because women are now being given a choice or more importantly have taken back the right to choose. A home birth is not for every woman but it is a safe and realistic choice for many. Don't give up your choice.’

First child born at home with the support of two wonderful midwives

‘I was lucky that my GP was supportive of homebirths, and actually believed that 90% of all women should be able to give birth at home. For me this was the best option. My labour was quite long (over 28 hours), but it was great because I was comfy and relaxed at home. If I’d been in hospital, I’m certain that they would have tried to speed things up, which I didn’t want. The midwives totally respected my opinions and we built up a great relationship.’

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