Opinions on Home Birth for 1st Pregnancy

[michellejeffers]

Hi. I am 32 weeks pregnant with my first baby and have had a healthy pregnancy so far. I have been really thinking through my birth options and am swaying towards having a home birth. I love the idea of being in my nice, safe, clean home which I feel would be a much more relaxing place for both myself and my baby. My NCT teacher and my Midwife are both very pro home births and say that there is no reason why I can't have one if my pregnancy progresses as normal. I live next door to the hospital so distance is not an issue if I do need to be transferred in. I am feeling quite brave about the whole birth experience but am really worried about going into hospital and what my experience there will be like. Does anybody have any helpful opinions or experiences of a home birth with their first baby, that may help my decision? I keep thinking that I am certain about it then someone will make a little comment that puts doubts in my mind. Any helpful opinions would be greatly appreciated, thanks

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Hey I'm due my first baby on the 8th jan and am having a homebirth (only arranged it a couple weeks ago) so can't tell you my experience till she arrives

I also keep getting people making comments about my choice which is resulting in me doubting my decision but at the end of day if the midwife had any concerns about you having a homebirth then they wouldn't let you. You'll be much more calm and comfortable at home which surely would result in a positive labour experience!? And if your right next door to the hospital that would make me want a homebirth even more as you don't have far to go for if you did need to go in

Good luck and don't let anyone else make the decision for you! x

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Go for it. I wish I had for my first, but the local hospital had a bad reputation. I'm definitely having my second at home.

One of my friends had home births for both of hers and they both went smoothly and very quick.

People have been giving birth at home for far longer than in hospital and as you say, less chance of catching an infection/virus and being in the comfort of your own home making you feel more confident.

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but you've got to go with what you want, it's your baby's birth and you want what's best for you. Birthing advice is just the start, next they'll be telling you how to feed, wash, wean etc your child. Practise some come backs, like "thank you, I'll think about what you've said and make up my own mind for what's best for my baby". All the best.