Is Homebirth Safe?
WHY BIRTH AT HOME?
Choosing where to give birth is one of the most influential decisions anyone can make. The place of birth shapes not only the likelihood of a natural, physiological birth but also the chances of medical intervention. In this 45-minute webinar, recorded when I was a practising midwife, I explore the research that demonstrate why homebirth can be a safe, evidence-based choice, and the practicalities of birthing at home with midwives in the UK.
What You’ll Discover in This Webinar
I discuss the difference between home birth and hospital birth, emphasising the safety and sense of empowerment associated with home births. I share my personal journey as a midwife and mother, highlighting the importance of the birthing environment and the hormonal dynamics at play during labour. I also address common concerns about pain relief, transfer rates, and emergencies, providing supportive research insights. The conversation concludes with a Q&A session, encouraging informed choices for expectant parents.
Takeaways
Home birth can be a safe and empowering choice for many women.
The environment in which a woman gives birth significantly impacts her experience.
Hormones like oxytocin and endorphins play crucial roles in labor and delivery.
Pain relief options are more accessible and varied in a home birth setting.
Research indicates that home birth can lead to better outcomes for low-risk women.
Transfer rates for home births are often misunderstood and can be influenced by various factors.
Midwives are trained to handle emergencies and provide care tailored to individual needs.
Informed choice is essential for expectant parents to feel empowered in their birthing decisions.
The relationship between a midwife and the birthing person is vital for a positive experience.
Home birth rates are low, indicating a need for more awareness and education on the subject.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Home Birth vs Hospital Birth
02:57 Evony's Journey and Experience as a Midwife
05:45 The Importance of Environment in Birth
08:38 Physiology of Birth and Hormonal Influence
11:51 Pain Relief Options in Home Birth
14:36 Safety of Home Birth: Research Insights
17:45 Understanding Transfer Rates and Emergencies
20:31 Empowerment Through Birth Choices
23:49 The Role of Midwives in Home Births
26:46 Conclusion and Q&A Session
Resources
Homebirth UK Facebook Group: Supportive online space for those planning a homebirth. Lots of birth stories and resources.
Homebirth Supplies: Everything you might need all in one place. But of course you could find bits separately on Ebay etc.
We’re Reclaiming Birth Together
Honest conversations, balanced wisdom, and the truth about physiological birth from a former midwife and doula. Have a listen on your favourite podcast platform.
Learn With Me
If you found this useful, explore the Holistic Doula Pathway - a deep, evidence-based training that blends modern knowledge with the Wise Woman approach to physiological birth.
👉 Learn more about the course
