Asking the right questions about homebirth

[Chunkychicken]

I'm 16wks and seeing my MW on Thursday. She mentioned the possibility of a homebirth at my booking-in appt 8wks ago, as my DD was a straight-forward pg & delivery & I'm low-risk (at the mo). I'd initially dismissed the idea but having considered it further, I think it might be a calmer, easier option. My DH will be with me during the appointment too, so we can discuss it properly.

Essentially, I wanted to make sure I consider it fully & know my options etc. Does anyone have any advice about the questions I should be asking, or even the things I should be clarifying with her, regarding a homebirth? It would be really helpful to know what other people's experiences are and if there was anything they did/didn't ask/anticipate!!

TIA :)

two things to ask

1. who attends homebirths in your area (in our area will always be community midwife *2)
2. what pain relief will be on offer (varies from area to area..usually G&A..sometimes pethidine)

they usually give an info pack with 'reasons for transfer in' and 'what stuff will i need' that actually covers most of it anyway..

Find out which mws attend, community or hopsital. Are their ever any staff shortage problems.

Other than that it is more about what you want. I imagine the mw will go through most things with you.

My DD2 was a home birth and a wonderful relaxed experience.

Have a look at the homebirthuk website it's very good and might prompt some thoughts/questions for you.

I understand how you're feeling, I knew I really wanted a home birth with DC2 and brought the idea up with my MW myself but even so it's not common in this country and I wasn't sure what to expect. Looking back it's so simple and makes perfect sense to stay where you feel safe and comfortable that the idea of jumping in the car and driving to the hospital to give birth surrounded by people in uniforms now feels completely strange to me.

Everything about DD2s birth was very straightforward, we had gathered all the things the MW suggested, they have their own box of tricks too and apart from your own personal choice of biscuits there isn't really anything else you need.

You might want to consider whether or not you want a water birth as booking a pool to hire/buying one can take a little research time. I didn't use a pool, holds no appeal for me at all, plus I know I can only give birth with TENS turned up to 10 firmly stuck to my back and TENS machines don't mix with water!

There might be a home birth support group in your area, ask the midwife and start asking around the Mums you know, you might find someone who has had one and is happy to talk to you about it.

Best wishes x

Thanks very much. Only briefly discussed it as there is an info session, but did discover its community midwives that do it. Will be looking into birthing pools etc soon!!

Thanks :)