More expectant mothers are considering home births due to the desire to have a natural birth and various other reasons. A home birth can be a safe experience that allows you to have your child in a familiar atmosphere. If you are considering a home birth, here is what you need to know. 

Are You a Good Candidate?

Home births are not always an option for all mothers. In order to meet the qualifications for a home birth, your pregnancy needs to be considered low-risk. A low-risk pregnancy means that you do not have a condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, that could result in the need for medical intervention during labor. 

Your past pregnancy and labor history also plays a role in whether or not you qualify for a home birth. If you have a past history of preterm labor, chances are, the midwife will not approve you for home birth. 

In the event that any problems should arise during the pregnancy, the midwife can opt for a transfer to the hospital. A transfer can occur for various reasons, including hemorrhaging and lack of progress during the pregnancy. 

What Can You Do to Prepare?

If you are a good candidate for a home birth, it is important that you properly prepare your home and your family for the experience. Ideally, you are relying on a midwife to help you with the birth. Look for a midwife that has been certified and has served as both the primary caregiver and assistant in home births. You can talk to a professional, like George L Stankevych MD, for more information.

Although your home might seem like the ideal location to give birth, it might not be the most convenient. If your home is far from a hospital or it could be difficult to reach one quickly, consider having the baby at a friend or family member's home that is near the hospital. 

Your midwife might recommend the use of a birthing tub for the delivery. If so, ask him or her for a referral to a service that offers leasing of the tubs. 

If you have other children, you can prepare them for the upcoming birth by involving them in the pregnancy. Have the children there for prenatal appointments and ensure they are familiar with the midwife. By doing this, you can help alleviate some of the anxiety your children might experience during the home birth. 

Your midwife can help you determine what other steps you need to take to properly prepare for your home birth.