Home Births Are Becoming The Next Cool Thing To Do

January 14, 2023 by Marjorie R. Rogers, MA (English), Certified Consultant

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in every 100 births in the United States takes place outside of a hospital setting—either at home or in a birth center. Of these, about 1 out of 4 are planned home births. This means that nearly 28,000 babies are born into families’ homes each year, with the majority of mothers being white and over the age of 30. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) notes that while home births can be safe under certain circumstances, they may also come with additional risks compared to hospital births. As a result, ACOG recommends that women who choose to have home births should have a qualified healthcare provider present and that the mother should be prepared for any potential unexpected circumstances. With appropriate planning, education, and support, home births can be a safe option for many women.

Should You Have A Home Birth?

In addition to safety concerns, there are other factors to consider when deciding whether or not a home birth is right for you. Women must be comfortable with the idea of labor and delivery at home, as this can be quite different than in a hospital setting. Additionally, you should consider whether you have access to an appropriate support team who is knowledgeable about the risks associated with home birth and can provide assistance if needed. Lastly, it’s important to make sure that your insurance covers any potential costs associated with a home birth. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual woman to decide if a home birth is right for her and to plan accordingly. No matter where you choose to have your baby, it is important that you are educated on all of your options in order to make an informed decision. If you are considering a home birth, make sure to speak with your healthcare provider and understand the potential risks involved. With proper planning and preparation, a home birth can be a safe and rewarding experience. 

Is Having A Home Birth Legal In My State?

The legality of home births in the United States varies from state to state. While some states explicitly allow midwives to attend home births, others do not. Additionally, medical doctors are generally not allowed to attend a home birth in any state unless they have consulted with their local medical board and acquired special permission. It is important to understand the laws in your state before making the decision to have a home birth. If you are considering a home birth, it is best to speak with an attorney who specializes in reproductive law in order to understand all of the legal implications involved.

No matter if you choose to have a hospital or home birth, it is important that you feel safe and comfortable with the decision you make. With appropriate planning, education, and support, a home birth can be a safe option for many women. However, it is important to understand the potential risks involved and to make sure that your insurance covers any potential costs associated with a home birth.

How Much Do Home Births Cost?

The cost of a home birth varies depending on the type of care provider you choose and any additional services or supplies needed as well as what state you are in. Generally, home births attended by a midwife can range from $4,000 to $9,000 while those attended by an obstetrician may be more expensive. Glory Birth, a CPM out of Kansas City has two different packages which start at $4,500 for the classic package and $6,750 for the deluxe package.   Additionally, many insurance plans do not cover the costs of home births, so it is important to check with your provider before making any decisions. Ultimately, the cost of a home birth should be weighed against other factors such as safety and comfort in order to make an informed decision about where you would like to have your baby.

Start Planning For Your Next Home Birth

With proper planning, education, and support, home births can be a safe option for many women. Ultimately, it’s important to remember that the decision is up to you and your healthcare provider. With appropriate preparation and support from an experienced team, home births can be a safe and rewarding experience for many women.  By considering safety concerns, access to an appropriate support team, and insurance coverage for any potential costs associated with a home birth, women can make an informed decision about whether or not a home birth is right for them. With proper planning and preparation, having a home birth can be a safe and rewarding experience. It’s important to remember that it is ultimately up to the individual woman to decide if a home birth is right for her and to plan accordingly.  It’s also important to remember that no matter where you choose to have your baby, it is important that you are educated on all of your options in order to make an informed decision. With the help of a knowledgeable team, a home birth can be a safe and rewarding experience.