From the gut - decision to have a home birth

The inner voice, one's own gut feeling and external circumstances sometimes lead mothers to decide to give birth at home.

For me personally - I gave birth to my three girls at home - the decision was based on these aspects, at least at the time. In my case, I cannot give any concrete reasons or facts that led to this decision - at a training course I saw 'my' midwife and I knew that she was the one who should accompany me during the birth of my children, and that this should happen in my home.

This results in some general factors, such as your own living space, the familiar surroundings, the certainty that the people you want to have with you at the birth are there and who can follow your own birth rhythm as best as possible.

Such factors promote relaxation and increase security and self-determination.

2. Get your partner on board

It is important to take the reservations and fears of fathers and partners seriously and to express them clearly in conversation with the midwife – only then will they not “get in the way” of the birth and can support the pregnant woman.

The midwife also gives your partner orientation in this completely new situation so that he or she can also feel comfortable during the birth and support you in your strength.

3. Determine a birthing place

It doesn't matter which room in your apartment/house you plan to give birth in, be it the living room, bedroom or bathroom. It should be a room that is suitable for the conditions you need and want during the birth.

Tip : You usually only make the decision during the birth!

4. Organize childcare for your older children

It is advisable to organize a caregiver for the children in advance. You can prepare better for the birth if you know that the children are well looked after and do not have to worry about whether they are OK in the meantime.

5. What you need

• Small table for the midwife's utensils
• Bright lamp including extension cable for possible treatment of a perineal injury
• Waterproof materials
• Large bowls
• Towels, washcloths, cloth diapers, red bath towel for baby
• Hot water bottle or cherry stone pillow, cooling pad
• Large sanitary pads and mesh pants
• Drinks and possibly snacks, chicken soup for after birth and the postpartum period
• clothes for the baby
• emergency bag for the hospital and mother-child pass
• camera

Tip : Your midwife will probably have her own list that you can follow. This way you will be as well prepared as possible.

6. When is a home birth not an option

A home birth is not suitable for every pregnant woman or the optimal and safest option in every situation. In the case of the following complications or situations, a hospital birth is preferable to a home birth:

• twin pregnancy
• breech position
• premature birth
• After a previous cesarean section
• In case of complications during pregnancy – mother and child must be healthy.

Important : For more detailed clarification, your midwife will give you information and individual advice.

7. How much does a home birth cost

The costs depend on whether you have found a midwife with a health insurance contract or a midwife of your own choosing.

It is best to ask your midwife and she will be able to explain the costs in more detail and discuss all the formalities with you.

My conclusion for you:

"I was scared, but..."

This sentence describes very well that the fears of the pregnant woman and her partner play a role in the emotional construct of trust; nevertheless, they are integrated and can be left open.

The fear is there, but not threatening – I still have confidence in my ability to give birth and am self-determined! I wish you:

Understandability : Classifying what is happening and perceiving life events as a challenge

Manageability : Being able to deal with what happens and grow from new experiences

Significance : Giving meaning to what happens – this creates abundance

I wish all this for you, whether at home or in the hospital.

Wherever you feel comfortable is your home and the midwife is your confidant.

All the best for your birth!