Most Frequent Questions
Is home birth illegal?
Home birth is not illegal, but options for care providers vary from state to state.
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You can legally give birth anywhere you desire. You can invite anyone you like to attend your birth, including a traditional birth attendant.
What if I'm carrying twins?
Certainly! While giving birth to twins at home is less common, it can be a positive and empowering choice for some mothers with uncomplicated twin pregnancies. It's essential to work closely with an experienced attendant who specializes in multiple births and home births.
What if I've had a cesarean birth?
Having a home birth after a previous cesarean section is possible, but it's important to consider various factors and to discuss all angles with a birth attendant experienced in VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) and home birth.
What if my baby is breech?
Yes, it's possible to have a home birth with a breech baby under specific circumstances. It typically involves working with an experienced birth attendant who is skilled in breech birth techniques and assessing your individual situation.
FAQ
1. Is home birth with a traditional birth attendant safe?
- Yes, home birth with a trained and experienced traditional birth attendant is safe for most birthing women.
2. What qualifications should a traditional birth attendant have?
- Traditional birth attendants should have specialized training in home birth practices, covering prenatal, birth, and postpartum care. They should be skilled in handling normal, physiological births and have experience in managing birth emergencies.
- Current available credentials are not necessarily a reliable metric for judging experience and wisdom. You are encouraged to ask probing and comprehensive questions of any care provider you are considering, and also to ask for references.
3. What's the difference between home birth and hospital birth with a highly trained attendant?
- Home birth offers a more personal and intimate setting, minimizing unnecessary medical interventions while still providing expert care if emergencies arise. Hospital birth often involves more routine medical interventions and operates on the hospital’s terms rather than yours.
4. Who is eligible for home birth with a traditional birth attendant?
- Most pregnancies can be suitable for home birth, but eligibility is assessed individually. Even if you’re unsure about your suitability, we’d be happy to discuss your situation with you.
5. What happens if complications arise during a home birth with a traditional birth attendant?
- Traditional birth attendants are trained to manage common complications and will have a plan for hospital transfer if needed. - We offer a comprehensive birth emergencies class which outlines in detail possible complications and how they can be handled in the home setting.
6. What pain relief options are available during a home birth?
- Natural pain management techniques are encouraged, including deep breathing, movement, water therapy, music, and more.
7. How do I prepare for a home birth with a traditional birth attendant?
- Traditional birth attendants offer thorough prenatal education and support to help you prepare emotionally, physically, and logistically for a home birth.
8. What postpartum care is offered after a home birth with a traditional birth attendant?
- Traditional birth attendants provide several weeks of attentive postpartum care to help you transition smoothly into motherhood.
9. Is home birth with a traditional birth attendant covered by insurance?
- Coverage varies depending on location and insurance provider. Check with your insurance company to see if home birth is covered.
10. Can I have a water birth at home with a traditional birth attendant?
- Water birth is a great option at home. Many women find water therapy beneficial during labor, whether the birth occurs in water or on land.
11. Do I need to have a backup plan for hospital transfer when planning a home birth with a traditional birth attendant?
- Yes, you should have a backup plan for hospital transfer in case of an emergency. Your birth attendant will help you plan this and accompany you if hospital care becomes necessary.
12. What are the benefits of choosing a home birth with a traditional birth attendant?
- Benefits include a more personalized and intimate birthing experience, lower intervention rates, and greater autonomy in your birth choices. Additionally, working with a traditional birth attendant provides one-on-one care, with longer visits, direct access, and a relationship built on care and friendship.
13. Is home birth only for natural childbirth enthusiasts?
- Home birth is for anyone who desires a more autonomous, non-medical birth experience, not just those who favor natural childbirth. The comprehensive education and supportive relationship with a traditional birth attendant benefit women with various birthing preferences.
14. How do I find a qualified traditional birth attendant?
- Start by seeking referrals from chiropractors, natural health practitioners, or local birthing communities. It’s wise to meet with several birth attendants and conduct thorough interviews to ensure their approach aligns with your vision for birth.
Click here for a list of great questions to ask potential birth attendants.
15. What supplies are needed for a home birth with a traditional birth attendant?
- Your birth attendants will provide a list of necessary supplies. Most items are things you already have around your home, and any medical supplies can be ordered online.
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Remember, home birth with a traditional birth attendant is a personal choice, so having open discussions with your chosen attendant is crucial to ensure it meets your needs and preferences.