Birthing Options
AUG
6
2008
Modern mamas now have a wide variety of birthing options, besides delivery in a hospital! There are many options available to suit what is best and most comfortable for the parents and the family. Some of the most popular options include:
Hospital Delivery
*natural and without pain medicine
*pain relief such as an epidural or others
*obstetrician delivery attended by a medical staff
*mid-wife-may be present at delivery
*offers security in the event of complications
*may offer a birthing tub, balls, etc.
Birthing Center
*birthing centers are perfect for someone who doesn’t want to be in a hospital, but isn’t comfortable giving birth at home
*birthing tubs are available to help relieve pain during birth
*mid-wife delivers baby
*comfortable, at-home atmosphere
Home Delivery
*Mid-wife and/or doula are present
*family has complete control of the birthing atmosphere and method of birth (water birth, in a bed, etc)
*perfect for those with a low-risk pregnancy and who do not want the birth of their baby in a hospital
Many expectant mothers, along with their husbands, create a “birthing plan”, especially if they anticipate delivering in the hospital or at a birthing center. It is very helpful to discuss your options and your plans with your doctor, midwife, and /or doula. Your plan will outline your plans for delivery, your expectations, and your requests ( e.g., no pain medication).
Whether you plan to labor and birth at home, in the hospital, or at a birthing center, it is important to do your research first to explore your options and what is best for you, your baby, and your family. Parents should also allow for flexibility because sometimes a birth does not go as planned! By keeping an open mind, mom can reduce her chances of being disappointed, especially if an emergency c-section is required!
Tara Bren said on August 7th, 2008:
I sponsored (via my resale and consignment store) a public screening of the documentary, The Business of Being Born, recently. The movie presents all these options and the pros and cons of each. It was very informative and quite a shock to most of the women who came to the screening in regards to the attitudes of medical doctors toward home- and mid-wife attended birthing. I believe the documentary is available through Netflix now. I definitely recommend it to EVERY women, whether of child bearing age or not. Women of all ages should be informed about all aspects of women’s healthcare. Though I am not going to have any more children, I am asked all the time what I think about homebirth vs hospital birth, midwife pregnancy care vs medical doctor care, etc. Women can take control of their own healthcare by being informed, and by informing others!
God bless,
Tara
PrairieMom said on August 9th, 2008:
No question about it, do your research mama’s! Even though your family and friends mean well, their experience is not yours. Meaning, YOU need to decide the best way to bring YOUR child into the world and BE PREPARED.
When you and your partner are on the same page, all the details fall into place for a fantastic, memorable experience for all.
We decided home was the place for me since I am a low-risk mama. Indeed, it was! Each of my children’s labor and delivery took place in the quiet, peaceful comfort of our home. Water birth was our choice.
I hope your experience goes wonderfully for you, too!
Enjoy every minute,
Reen~
Kirby Mooney said on November 12th, 2008:
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MommaTaderDoodles said on November 22nd, 2008:
Our first two were hospital deliveries, both induced, both with epidurals…
Our latest PuddleDuck was born at home, in a tub of water and it was magnificent! My mom, my hubby, my best friend and my midwife were the only ones here with me. She was born early morning and I had gotten very hungry, so I sat in my chair (yep! my favorite cushioned rocking chair) and nursed her, then ate breakfast, and then shuffled to MY BED where my other children could curl up next to the new baby and mommy. We laid in the bed for hours, them watching cartoons, me watching the baby. It was so wonderful and peaceful.
I hope the next one can be birthed at home as well….