One of the main reasons people have traditionally chosen to give birth in hospitals—or haven’t questioned it—is the belief that hospitals are inherently safer. And for a time, that was true. However, today’s mothers are generally healthier, receive more comprehensive prenatal care, and benefit from higher living standards. On top of that, advancements in medical technology have transformed maternity care.All of these factors have contributed to making planned home births just as safe—if not safer—for healthy women as hospital births. This has been consistently demonstrated by numerous studies conducted worldwide.With this growing body of evidence, it’s no surprise that more and more women are choosing to give birth at home rather than going to the hospital when labor begins.
Reason #1 Safety. Yes! Home birth can be a healthier and safer option for both you and your baby. At home, there's a lower risk of exposure to infections or illnesses often found in hospital environments, as you're already accustomed to the microbes in your own home.All medical equipment used during a home birth is properly sterilized, and your familiar surroundings are perfectly safe for giving birth. In contrast, hospitals can expose you to unfamiliar germs, increasing the risk of infection.In fact, numerous studies have shown that, for healthy pregnancies, giving birth at home with a qualified midwife can be as safe—or even safer—than a hospital birth.
Reason #2 It’s more affordable! Home births are generally much less expensive than hospital births. While your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your specific circumstances, the overall cost of a hospital birth—even without complications or pain relief—is typically higher than that of hiring a qualified home birth midwife.Hospital births are more costly not only due to medical services, but also because of the extended stay (usually at least 24 hours) and the associated expenses of hospital staff, equipment, and facility use. Home births, by contrast, eliminate many of these added costs.For those who pay for healthcare out-of-pocket or don’t have traditional insurance, home birth can be a much more budget-friendly option. Healthshare ministries often cover 100% of home birth expenses, and many people can use Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) to pay for midwifery care. Additionally, some insurance providers now reimburse most—or even all—of the costs related to a planned home birth. From their perspective, it’s often more cost-effective to cover a $5,000 home birth than a $15,000 hospital delivery, though actual amounts may vary.
Reason #3 - Your space. Your terms. One of the biggest advantages of home birth is being in a familiar, comfortable environment. This often leads to a more relaxed state of mind, which can contribute to a smoother labor and birth experience.Many people find that once they arrive at the hospital, the unfamiliar setting and medical interventions can cause tension. It’s not uncommon for contractions to slow down or even stall - especially if you end up confined to a hospital bed and connected to an IV.At home, you're free to move around, find comfortable positions, and stay in control of your surroundings—all of which support your body’s natural labor process.
Reason #4 Birth Is Not A Medical Event. Giving birth is a natural process, not typically a medical emergency. Hospitals are designed to handle illness, injuries, surgeries, and other urgent care needs. While complications can occur, and you always have the option to transfer to a hospital if necessary, most labors and deliveries proceed without issue.With the support of a skilled midwife, you can safely welcome your baby at home. Also a plan is put in place beforehand so if you do need hospital care, the transfer can go smoothly. Emergency care is available around the clock—ready whenever you might require it.
Reason #5 More Choices In The Care Of Your Newborn. Another reason to choose a home birth is to avoid unnecessary routine procedures often performed on newborns in hospitals. These may include eye drops, the Hepatitis B vaccine, early bathing, pressure to circumcise—or doing so too soon—and placing the baby on a cold, hard scale, along with other uncomfortable pokes and prods.In some hospitals, newborns are required to be taken to the nursery for examination and monitoring, which means they are separated from their parents during this crucial bonding time.At home, you have full control over what procedures your baby undergoes. Any care you want can be provided by your midwife or pediatrician, all on your terms.
Reason #6 Less Interventions. Home births typically involve fewer interventions, giving you a better chance to avoid induction, artificial rupture of membranes, IV fluids, and cesarean sections. Staying at home significantly increases the likelihood of having a natural birth.
Reason #7 A More Intimate Experience. Having a baby at home offers a more intimate and personal experience. Birth is a deeply special moment, and it can be difficult to feel truly close and connected to your partner and newborn in a cold, bright hospital room filled with unfamiliar nurses and staff.At home, you won’t be interrupted by strangers coming and going. During prenatal care, you’ll have the opportunity to build a relationship with your midwife and decide who else you want present—whether that’s just you and your partner or close family and friends. The experience can be tailored entirely to your comfort and preferences.
Reason #8 Recovery And Bonding With Baby. With a home birth, you’re able to get more rest and enjoy uninterrupted time bonding with your baby. In a hospital, it’s common to have people coming in and out of your room around the clock—checking your vitals, examining the baby, and performing routine procedures. These constant interruptions can make it difficult for either of you to get the rest you need.At home, postpartum care is still provided to ensure you and your baby are healthy and adjusting well, but it's done in a much gentler and more peaceful way. Typically, within 3 to 6 hours, everything is stable and complete, leaving you free to relax, recover, and snuggle with your baby without disruption.
Reason #9 The Comfort Of Your Own Space. At home, you have the freedom to eat, rest, and use the bathroom whenever you need to—without asking permission or working around hospital routines. You get to labor and recover in your own bed, relax on your own couch, and enjoy familiar comforts like your favorite music, TV or books.Your partner will likely feel more at ease too, which helps create a calm and supportive environment. You can pack multiple bags for a hospital stay, but nothing truly compares to the comfort of being in your own home.
Reasons #10 Home Birth Is Simply More Convenient. There’s no need to pack bags, make a stressful drive to the hospital, or deal with registration and paperwork. When you’re in labor, your midwife comes to you—no rushing around or sitting in traffic while having contractions.It’s just as convenient after the baby is born. Everything you need is already at home—clothes, toiletries, phone chargers—no need for anyone to run back and forth to grab forgotten items. You can just focus on resting, bonding, and settling in with your baby.
Debunking myths and misinformation about Birth at Home and Midwives who attend them
When families begin exploring the option of home birth, they often encounter a flood of opinions—and unfortunately, plenty of misinformation. As a midwife, I’ve heard many of the same myths repeated over the years, and I’ve seen how those false ideas can create fear or hesitation around what can be a safe and beautiful way to welcome a baby.
If you’re exploring your birth options, you’ve likely heard about water birth—a gentle, empowering option that more and more families are choosing. Laboring and birthing in warm water can support your body’s natural rhythms and create a calm, confident experience for both you and your baby.
With a range of physical and emotional benefits backed by research, water birth is worth considering for many expecting families. Let’s explore why.
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