Home birth or hospital?

Here are some things to consider if you’re thinking about giving birth at home.

Though still less than 1 percent of the 4.2 million annual deliveries, according to the New York Times, this is a reverse for a trend that has not been popular since the early 1900s.

A cultural shift towards more “natural” preferences in health care, as well as celebrities paving the way and speaking publicly about their experiences, could explain why home births are seeing a resurgence.

Before jumping on the home birth bandwagon, however, take the following points into consideration. Ultimately the setting you choose should depend on what you want out of the experience and the safety of mom and baby.

A home birth is right for healthy women who have had no complications during their pregnancies.

Home birthing women should not be carrying multiples and those who have had prior C-section deliveries need to be in a hospital.

You need to be somewhat close to a hospital should a complication arise during a home birth.

It is more common for first time mothers to need transportation to the hospital than women who have already given birth vaginally.

Very few midwives use medication for pain relief. Natural methods include positioning, massage, breathing and warm baths. If you want medication, home birthing may not be for you.

Not all insurance companies cover home births, so your out-of-pocket costs may be higher than with a hospital birth.