Women Control Their Child's Birth

In the 1970s, a movement to revive lay midwifery and promote homebirth developed, which continues to this day. Unfortunately, some physicians accuse women who give birth at home of being irresponsible and selfish, but various studies have concluded that homebirth appears to be just as safe as hospital birth for low-risk women. For Fai Meline of Toranto, ON, Canada, home birth was natural. "After meeting my midwife I was pleasantly surprised with the profession's commitment to informed choice and the professional care and time given to listen during each visit ,one hour as opposed to five-15 minutes at the doctor's office. I researched both hospital and home births and decided that if my pregnancy was not high risk, there was no reason to go to hospital and I would feel more comfortable in my own home where I would have more autonomy over my brithing process ,especially since I would like to have certain options available to me such as acupuncture and herbal remedies to help with a smoother and faster delivery."

Many women like the comfort of a midwife, who is less likely to force the mother to be into having an induced labor unless the baby has pasted the 42 week mark at which time the baby may be at risk .Homebirth is often the ideal option for women who are searching for a sense of control in their birth experience. Strong bonds are generally forged between the woman and her midwife, and a continuing relationship may result. Due to this mutually respectful relationship, women giving birth at home are consulted about decisions, thus empowering them and raising their self-confidence. Jennifer Jahns of Kitchener, ON, Canada said, "I had a great home birth, and hoping for the same with this baby. I couldn't have done it without my fantastic midwives!" During a home birth the mother-to-be is encouraged to find a posisiton that is comfortable with her and to birth in any position , which often ends up being a kneeling or squatting position. Corrinna Pole said,"My only regret with my daughter was not squatting as was suggested; I had just gotten out of the tub and was hot so I wanted to lie down, next time I will squat if I have the option."

Eating and drinking are also encouraged during homebirth because birth is an aerobic event requiring a great deal of calories, the deprivation of which can cause dehydration and negative nitrogen balance. Labor is also practical as women are left alone for the majority of their labor and the midwife comes when the woman feels necessary or the birth is imminent. There is no rushing a homebirth, the baby comes when he or she is ready. Psychology, however, is powerful. If someone believes that homebirth is dangerous and the hospital is the safest place to have a baby, they will likely have a hard time giving birth at home. On the other hand, women who are confident in their ability to give birth naturally can be assured that the chance of an emergency occurring at home is small and that midwives are well trained to handle whatever situations may arise.