Your Birthing Options

Giving birth is a glorious time in your life.  Being in a place you are comfortable with, allows you to relax and enjoy your labor and delivery.  There are three primary choices for you to consider having your baby.  They are listed below with some considerations both for and against each option, so you may be better able to make your decision.

Home Birth

Pros	Cons
Home birth is as safe or safer than hospital births for low risk women with qualified assistance Women can labor in the familiarity and comfort of her own home with very few restrictions The woman maintains control over everything that impacts her labor and birth Reduced risk of infection for both mother and baby	No neonatal staff on hand to deal with emergencies Though uncommon, unexpected complications may arise, and transport is necessary and can take time Cost may not be covered by health insurance

 

Hospital Birth

Pros	Cons
Many feel this is the safest option Immediate medication attention is readily available for mother and baby if necessary	Birth partner is less likely to be involved, and may feel unimportant Routine separation of the mother and baby is typically unavoidable Complications and infections for mother and baby are increased

 

Birthing Center Birth

Pros	Cons
Provides an alternative to those who are not comfortable with a home birth but still wish to deviate from the hospital setting Increased control for the mother and partner Fewer interventions Freedom for birthing position Personalized care at a lower cost than most hospitals	No pediatricians on staff if the baby requires special attention Typical discharge is 4-24 hours, not giving the mother as much time to rest after giving birth