Pregnancy
You can 'book' a home birth with your GP, or direct with a community midwife. You can also do this through an independent midwife, although you will have to pay.
There are some issues that make a home birth less suitable for some women - for instance, if you're expecting twins, if it's thought you might need a caesarean section, or you have a history of postnatal haemorrhage.
Things you need to think about before reaching a decision are:
Advantages
You'll be in a familiar, relaxing and private environment
There should be no quick dash to hospital once you go into labour
You can choose who you want there during labour, so if you want your other children around that's fine
You may feel more in control at home
After your baby's born, you can get into your own bath and your own bed
Disadvantages
There's no option of an epidural if you're struggling to cope with labour pains
You may have to transfer to hospital if there are complications and this may be an issue if you live some distance away
Once you've had your pregnancy confirmed, talk to your GP or midwife about a home birth. They'll discuss your choice and make the necessary arrangements.
If your GP's concerned about your choice, contact the manager of your local community midwifery services, but remember your GP may have concerns about your medical condition.
The earlier in your pregnancy you decide on a home birth, the easier it is to arrange one, and you can change your mind and opt for a hospital birth at any point.
Once labour begins, your community midwife may visit you once, twice, or more. When your baby's birth is imminent she'll stay with you.
Alternatively, you can hire an independent midwife to handle your antenatal care and your home birth. This costs between £1,500 and £4,000. To find out more, contact the Independent Midwives Association.
Your midwife will bring all the equipment she needs. You don't need to provide very much, but you should ensure your home is warm.
You'll need:
Plastic sheets to protect your bed and carpet
Warm towels and warm clothes for your baby
A bright lamp so the midwife can see what she's doing
A packed overnight bag, including baby clothes, in case you need to be transferred to hospital
If you'd like to use a birthing pool, these are available for hire.
If there are complications during your labour, the midwife may decide you or your baby would be safer in hospital.
She'll discuss this with you and your partner, and will call an ambulance. She'll go with you and may continue with your care depending on how many hours she's already worked.
If you use an independent midwife it's unlikely she'll be able to assist you at the hospital, although she can remain with you as a supporter.
After a home birth Your midwife will stay for some time after the placenta has been delivered, and will check your baby and help you to breastfeed.
Your midwife, or one of her colleagues, will visit you every day for a few days and your GP will carry out a complete check on your baby.