The Doctors weigh in on a woman who posted about her home birth on Facebook. The woman, who claims her hospital was not respecting her birth plan, says she gave birth unassisted in her own bathroom -- but are there risks for this type of birth?
OB/GYN Dr. Nita Landry notes that the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists believes that hospitals and accredited birthing centers are the safest settings for giving birth, but she says the organization does respect a woman's right to make an informed medical decision and have a home birth.
Dr. Nita encourages expecting mothers planning to give birth at home to think about the following:
- If your baby is breached, if you having twins or triplets, or have ever had a cesarian, she does not recommend a home birth due to the high risk of fetal death.
- If you are having a home birth, she encourages having a physician with OB training or a highly trained, certified midwife present during labor and delivery.
- To make sure you are able to get to the hospital quickly if a problem arises.
Dr. Nita explains that home births are also associated with a greater risk of perinatal mortality, neonatal seizures, and neurological dysfunctions.
"At the end of the day, we just want a healthy mom and healthy baby. Know the risks, and make the decision that is right for you," Dr. Nita adds.
